Norm Marshal cat T-Model

Norm Marshall Model T car (Tin Lizzy) I made More Than Forty Years Ago

 

Handmade Wood Toys

If you're looking for a unique and handmade gift for a child or a car enthusiast, look no further than a Norm Marshall T-Model wooden car. These beautiful and intricate cars are sure to delight anyone who receives one.

Norm Marshall was an active woodworker who designed and built wooden toys from 1974 until he died in 1982. He wrote a book, The Great Book of Wooden Toys, which contains detailed step-by-step instructions for building and playing with any wooden toy. The book is available in paperback and hardcover and includes helpful tips and tricks for making the perfect wooden toy.

I made several of these cars more than forty years ago and have kept them all these years. I've also made many more to give as gifts or to sell.

You'll need a few tools to make a Norm Marshall T-Model car. I used my Shopsmith with a bandsaw and belt sander. While trying to remember if I used a scroll saw when I made mine, I did have one, and I've used it for many other woodworking projects over the years. If I made a Norm Marshall toy today, I would use a scroll saw. You could build these toys with handheld power tools or hand tools.

One thing to remember is that making a wooden car like this requires some skill and patience. You'll need to be able to cut precise shapes and pieces out of wood and assemble them carefully to create the finished product. But with practice and perseverance, anyone can learn to make these delightful toys.

In conclusion, a handmade wooden car like the Norm Marshall T-Model is a wonderful gift for anyone who appreciates classic toys and beautiful craftsmanship. Whether you make one yourself or buy one from a skilled toymaker, it's sure to be a treasured possession for years to come. So why not try your hand at making one today?

Painting Handmade Wood Toys: Tips and Considerations for Using Acrylic Paint

Handmade Wood Toy Cars Hot Rod Freaky Fords Being Painted With Acrylic Baby Blue Paint

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Painting handmade wood toys can be a fun and creative way to add color and personality to your creations. While many types of paint exist, acrylics are often favored for their versatility and ease of use. This blog post will discuss tips and considerations for using acrylic paint on handmade wood toys, specifically focusing on drying time vs. cure time.

First, let's briefly review the difference between drying and cure times. Drying time is the time it takes for the solvent in the paint (in the case of acrylics, water) to evaporate, leaving a dry paint film. Curing and drying are usually measured in hours or days and vary depending on factors such as the thickness of the paint layer, the environmental humidity and temperature, and the type of surface being painted. Cure time, however, refers to the time it takes for the paint to harden and fully reach its maximum durability and adhesion. As with drying time, this can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

When painting handmade wood toys with acrylic paint, it is essential to consider both drying and curing times. Here are some tips to help ensure a successful paint job:

1. Prepare the surface: Before painting, ensure the wood surface is clean and free of dust or debris. Use sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots or splinters. Preparation is vital to a good finish.
2. Use a primer: The primer and the decision to use it are generally optional and depend on the paint you are using. In some cases,  applying a coat of primer can help the paint adhere better to the wood surface and prevent it from soaking into the grain. I usually want my paint to soak into the grain and rarely use primers.
3. Thin coats: Apply the paint in thin coats rather than thick ones. Thick coats can take longer to dry and cure and may also be more prone to cracking or peeling. If you need to apply a second coat, wait until the first coat is fully dry. Acrylics need to be bone dry before sanding, and you should sand between coats to achieve a smooth finish. Sanding between coats of paint is especially important if your final coat is a gloss finish.
4. Allow for drying time: It is essential to allow each coat of paint to dry thoroughly before applying another coat or handling the toy. Drying can take anywhere from a few hours to a day or more, depending on the thickness of the coat and the humidity and temperature of the environment. I generally allow acrylic paints to dry overnight (12 or more hours) between coats. The paint needs to be bone dry before sanding. If the paint gums up your sandpaper, it isn't dry enough.
5. Allow for cure time: While the paint may feel dry to the touch after a few hours, it is essential to allow for sufficient cure time before handling the toy or exposing it to moisture. Curing can take several days to a few weeks, depending on the same factors as drying time.      In my experience, flat paint dries and cures much faster than satin or gloss paint. I like to let my painted toys rest for several days.
6. Consider a sealant: Once the paint is fully cured, you may want to apply a sealant to protect the paint and the wood surface. Again, make sure to choose a sealant suitable for wood and acrylic paint. Clear acrylics can be used for this purpose, and clear shellac will bond to just about any surface. This step is entirely unnecessary. I only apply a top coat to change the toy's look. For example, you are applying a clear gloss acrylic to a toy painted with flat paint.

In summary, painting handmade wood toys with acrylic paint can be fun and rewarding, but it is essential to keep drying and curing time in mind. You can ensure a successful paint job by following these tips and allowing for sufficient drying and cure time.

 

The Truth About Labels on Finished Containers: Why They Can Lie and What You Can Do About It

Handmade Wood Toy Cars and Trucks Finished With Shellac Acrylic Paint And Satin Polyurethane

Toy Cars
Toy Trucks

If you're a woodworking enthusiast, you're likely familiar with tung oil. Tung oil is a popular finish for wooden objects because it provides a durable, water-resistant, and natural-looking finish. However, not all containers labeled "tung oil" contain tung oil. Some finishes labeled as oil-based may contain no oil at all. So why do labels on finished containers lie, and what can you do to ensure you get the product you want?

One reason labels on finished containers can be misleading is the lack of industry regulation. Unlike food and drug products, which must meet strict labeling standards, there are no guidelines for labeling finishes. Manufacturers can include whatever information they choose on the label, even if it's inaccurate. A finish labeled "tung oil" may contain only a small percentage of tung oil, or none at all.

Another reason labels can be misleading is due to marketing tactics. Using buzzwords like "natural" or "organic" can make a product more appealing to consumers, even if those terms don't accurately reflect the product's composition. For example, a finish labeled "natural tung oil" may contain other ingredients, such as mineral spirits or synthetic resins, that are not natural at all.

So, what can you do to ensure you get the desired product? One option is to research the brand and product before making a purchase. Look for reviews from other woodworkers or consult with experts to determine which brands are known for their quality and transparency. Additionally, you can look for products certified by third-party organizations, such as the Forest Stewardship Council or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, which ensure the product meets specific environmental and social standards.

Another option is to make your finishes from natural ingredients. This way, you know what's in the product and can tailor it to your needs. Recipes for homemade finishes are readily available online, and many use simple ingredients like beeswax, linseed oil, or shellac.

In conclusion, labels on finished containers can be misleading, and just because a label says "tung oil" or "oil-based" doesn't necessarily mean that's what's in the can. By researching, seeking third-party certifications, or making your own finishes, you can ensure you get the desired product and avoid potential disappointments.

Choosing the Right Finish for Wooden Toys: Finishing Toys With Polyurethane A Toymaker's Perspective

Handmade Wood Toy Monster Truck Made From Oak Poplar and Birch Hardwoods and Finished with Satin Polyurethane, Amber Shellac, and Metallic Saphire Blu Acrylic Paint

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Toy Trucks
Toy Cars

As a toymaker, I focus on finding the right finish to protect and enhance the appearance of my wooden toys. The finish directly affects how the product looks and how well it resists daily wear.

For wooden toys, satin polyurethane is a top choice because it delivers reliable water resistance and durability. Its sheen also brings out the beauty of toy wood grains. I use solvent-based satin polyurethane rather than water-based, since it offers better protection and a clearer finish for toys.

Polyurethane is an excellent option for finishing wooden toys because it can withstand heavy use and protect against wear and tear. However, it can take longer to cure than other finishes, so I always need to make sure I have enough time for it to dry and cure properly.

Ultimately, the choice of finish depends on the toy's specific needs and the look I want to achieve. I often opt for satin polyurethane when I want a durable and visually stunning finish. It is particularly useful for highlighting the wood grain and adding a natural sheen to the toy.

However, other finishes, such as oil and wax, can be great options depending on the desired effect. Oil finishes are ideal for bringing out the wood's natural color and grain, while wax finishes add a beautiful sheen and a protective layer.

In conclusion, as a toymaker, I've learned that selecting the right finish for wooden toys is crucial in ensuring their longevity and beauty. Each finish has unique qualities and properties, and the choice ultimately depends on the toy's specific needs and the desired look. While satin polyurethane is my go-to finish for many of my toys, it's essential to explore all the options and choose the one that works best for each project.

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Dry vs. Cure: Understanding the Difference in Coatings and Finishes

 

Toy Car Wheels Finished With Fully Cured Shellac and Ready To Be Mounted

 

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Dry and cure are two terms commonly used in the context of coatings and finishes. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to two different processes.

Dry refers to the point at which a coating or finish no longer feels tacky or sticky to the touch. When a finish is dry, the solvents or water in the coating have evaporated, leaving behind a film on the surface. However, just because a finish is dry does not necessarily mean it has cured.

Cure refers to the process by which a coating or finish reaches its maximum hardness and durability. This process can take longer than simply drying, involving chemical reactions between the molecules in the coating or finish. During curing, the finish may change color or texture as it hardens and becomes more durable.

Generally, the time it takes for a coating or finish to dry is much shorter than the time it takes to cure. While a finish may feel dry to the touch within a few hours, it may take several days or weeks to cure fully. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding drying and curing times to ensure that the finish reaches its maximum hardness and durability.

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How Temperature and Humidity Affect Finish Cure Times

 

Wheels For A Toy Car Curing After A Heavy Coat Of Amber Shellac

 

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Temperature and humidity are two important factors that can significantly affect the curing process of finishes. The curing process is the time it takes for a finish to completely dry and harden, and it is essential for achieving a durable and long-lasting finish. This blog post will discuss how temperature and humidity can affect finish cure times.

Temperature

Temperature plays a critical role in the curing process of finishes. Warmer temperatures will accelerate the curing process, while colder temperatures will slow it down. This is because the chemical reactions during the curing process are temperature-dependent.

When the temperature is too low, the curing process will take longer and may not even occur. Low temperatures can cause the solvents in the finish to evaporate too slowly, leading to a gummy or sticky finish. On the other hand, high temperatures can cause the finish to cure too quickly, leading to cracking, checking, and other defects.

The ideal temperature for curing finishes is typically between 65°F and 75°F. This temperature range allows the solvents to evaporate at an appropriate rate while allowing the finish to cure fully and develop a durable and long-lasting finish.

Humidity

Humidity is another important factor that can affect the curing process of finishes. Humidity is the amount of moisture present in the air, and it can significantly impact how quickly finishes dry and cure.

High humidity can slow down the curing process, as it can prevent the solvents in the finish from evaporating as quickly. This can lead to a finish that remains tacky or sticky for an extended period. On the other hand, low humidity can cause the finish to dry too quickly, resulting in a brittle finish and prone to cracking.

The ideal humidity for curing finishes is typically between 40% and 60%. This humidity range allows the solvents in the finish to evaporate at an appropriate rate while providing enough moisture to prevent the finish from becoming too brittle or prone to cracking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, temperature and humidity are two important factors that can significantly affect the curing process of finishes. To achieve the best results, paying attention to these factors and ensuring that the temperature and humidity levels are within the recommended range for the type of finish being used is essential. By doing so, you can achieve a durable and long-lasting finish that will look great for years.

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Mastering Product Photography: Key Equipment for Quality Photos That Will Make Your Products Stand Out

 

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Product photography has become an indispensable skill for selling items online. As a self-taught photographer, I have dedicated significant time and resources to mastering high-quality images for my products. I am a beginner, committed to continuous learning and improvement.

Product photography is essential for e-commerce. High-quality photos help your products stand out and require the right equipment. This blog post discusses the essential tools for successful product photography.

The first essential tool is a lightbox, which diffuses light and provides a neutral background. It eliminates shadows and ensures even lighting. Buying a larger lightbox avoids size issues and adds versatility.

The next essential tool for product photography is the camera. While some smartphones have good cameras, they may not be ideal for this purpose. A camera with manual controls and a zoom lens is preferable. My primary camera is the Canon T7i, but other options exist. I also use a Panasonic DMC-ZS7 for tight spaces.

Lighting is critical. Even the best camera needs proper lighting to produce high-quality images. Natural light is an option, but it is often inconsistent, so supplement with LED floodlights if needed. Use diffusers, light stands, and umbrellas to provide soft, even lighting.

A backdrop is important for eliminating distractions and focusing attention on the product. Choose a material and color that complements your product. White or black are popular options, but colored or textured backdrops can be used selectively, as they may affect how your product's color appears.

In summary, quality product photography requires key tools: a large lightbox, a good camera, appropriate lighting, and a neutral backdrop. Investing in the right equipment leads to professional-looking photos and long-term benefits.