Hippopotamus Christmas Tree Ornament: Finishing the Hippos With Clear Shellac

My Etsy Shop

I could spray the hippos with my airbrush, but it is messy, and I can't stop easily when the grand kids need attention. I hold the ornament by the screw eye using hemostats. I start brushing shellac on the bottom, and by the time I finish, it's dry enough to set the hippo on parchment paper. I wish I had known about parchment paper years ago; nothing sticks to it. Tape will not stick to parchment paper. I can clamp it to the table, but if it gets pulled, it will slide out of the clamps. I spilled some polyurethane on it, and when it cured, it peeled right off.

Revving Up Nostalgia: Handcrafted Wooden Hot Rod Toys for the Young (and Young at Heart)

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 If you're anything like me, there's something irresistibly charming about classic hot rods – those speedy machines that scream adventure and freedom. Today, I'm thrilled to share a peek into my creations: a vibrant orange Deuce Coupe and a purple T-bucket, both meticulously handcrafted from wood. These aren't just toys; they're tiny tributes to automotive history, designed to spark imagination in kids and collectors alike.

The collage above shows the orange Deuce Coupe, inspired by the 1932 Ford, with smooth curves, rolling wooden wheels, and distinctive side exhaust pipes. Its sturdy axles and glossy finish stand out. The purple T-bucket features an open-top style and bold color, ready for high-speed adventures or relaxed drives. Both use non-toxic paints and sustainable wood, making them safe, durable, and built for play.

What I love most about these wooden toys is how they offer hours of screen-free fun and foster creativity—no batteries required. Shopping in my Etsy shop is easy and flexible: some items ship fast for those last-minute gifts, while custom orders let you personalize your toy or collection with colors or unique features. Whether buying for play or display, you get quality craftsmanship tailored to your needs.

To start a custom order, simply message me on Etsy with your desired model, color scheme, and any unique features you'd like to include. I'll confirm details with you, provide a timeline, and then get started crafting your one-of-a-kind piece. Whether you want a specific hot rod model, a fleet of cars for a party, or something totally unique, I'm here to help. These toys make fantastic gifts for car-obsessed kiddos, model enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates handmade artistry.

Check out my Etsy shop to see more, order, or request a custom piece.

Cutting a Peterdactyl using my EX-21 Scroll Saw

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In this behind-the-scenes photo from my workshop, I'm using a scroll saw to meticulously cut out the individual pieces for a handmade Pterodactyl figurine from oak hardwood. The main body showcases the sleek, curved silhouette of the prehistoric creature with cutouts for wings and details. Scattered around it are the detached components—wings, legs, and other elements—each carefully labeled with thickness measurements like 1/2", 3/4", 5/8", and 1 1/2" to ensure precise assembly later. The wood dust and the scroll saw highlight the hands-on craftsmanship that goes into every creation. If you're enchanted by this dino design but prefer to skip the DIY, fully assembled Pterodactyl figurines are available for purchase in my Etsy shop—perfect for collectors, kids' rooms, or anyone who loves a touch of whimsical paleo-art!

 

Handmade Wooden Little Blue Truck: A Timeless Classic for Any Space

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Discover the charm of the Handmade Wooden Little Blue Truck. Crafted with care, this product brings nostalgia and joy to any space. Each truck is made from quality wood and painted with a vibrant blue finish, providing durability and a classic look.

Choose from a variety of sizes and colors to suit any style or preference. Whether as a unique gift or a delightful addition to a home, this truck stands out for its craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Custom orders allow for personalized touches, ensuring the perfect fit for any occasion. Proudly made in the USA, the Handmade Wooden Little Blue Truck reflects a commitment to quality and tradition.

Bring a touch of timeless fun to a collection with this beautifully designed wooden truck.

 

Cutting A Peterdactyl Using the EX-21 Scroll Saw

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Making a Peterdactyl figurine is a fun and rewarding project.

Tools and materials I used.

• EX-21 scroll saw
• Printed Pterodactyl pattern
• 3/4-inch-thick wood for the body.
• Spray adhesive

I used spray adhesive to attach the pterodactyl pattern directly to the wood.

I use a Pegas #3MGT blade to cut the pterodactyl. This is by far my most-used scroll saw blade.

As a rule, I drill any entry hole for interior cuts before cutting out the body.

 

 

Handmade Wooden Birdhouse Christmas Tree Ornament

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My Birdhouse Ornament Collection
All My Ornaments

 Give your Christmas tree a touch of rustic charm with the Miniature Birdhouse Ornament. This delightful piece is handmade from select hardwoods and features a protective finish made from a blend of mineral oil and beeswax, ensuring durability and longevity.

As part of a collection, this ornament invites the opportunity to gather a unique assortment, perfect for enhancing holiday decorations. Each piece holds the potential to become a cherished heirloom, crafted in America with traditional woodworking tools. Whether you're looking for a stocking stuffer or a memorable holiday gift, the Miniature Birdhouse Ornament is a wonderful choice.

Approximate Size:

• Height: 2.75 inches
• Width: 1.25 inches
• Depth: 1.25 inches

Every creation is made using natural wood, resulting in unique differences in appearance among items. The piece received may differ slightly from what is shown in the listing photos. Additionally, the thickness of the wood may vary, making each ornament distinctly its own.

Natural variations in wood grain, color, and knots highlight the character and charm of every piece, which is a normal aspect of handmade items. These distinctions should not be viewed as defects but rather as elements that contribute to the unique appeal of each ornament. For specific requests regarding appearance or size, it is best to reach out before placing an order.

Experience the quality and craftsmanship of this ornament, proudly handmade in Tallahassee, Florida, USA.

Handmade Wooden Birdhouse Christmas Tree Ornament, Collectable Heirloom, Made In USA

 

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My Birdhouse Ornament Collection
All My Ornaments

Discover a one-of-a-kind handmade miniature birdhouse ornament, a true work of art crafted from high-quality hardwoods. Each piece showcases unique character and charm thanks to the careful selection and shaping of the wood.

After the birdhouse is completed, a custom mixture of beeswax and mineral oil is applied. This treatment penetrates deeply for long-lasting protection while imparting a beautiful, natural luster. Such meticulous finishing ensures this ornament maintains its beauty for years.

This miniature birdhouse is an ideal addition to a holiday tree or a thoughtful gift. With only 42 ornaments available in this collection, this is a rare opportunity to enhance holiday décor with an exceptional piece.

Approximate Size:

• Height: 3.75 inches
• Width: 1.25 inches
• Depth: 1.25 inches

Every item created is handmade using natural wood, resulting in unique variations in appearance from one piece to another. The item received may differ slightly from what is shown in the listing photos. Additionally, the thickness of the wood used may vary from the specified measurements.

Natural variations in wood grain, color, and knots are to be expected, adding to the character and charm of each piece. These variations should not be viewed as defects. For specific requests regarding appearance or size, please reach out before placing an order.

Handmade in Tallahassee, Florida, USA.