Learning how to make wooden toys with wheels is a fun and rewarding project. Kids will love playing with them, and it’s also a great way to teach them how materials fit together. At the same time, you’ll be learning how to use basic tools and discovering that you don’t need expensive equipment to get started.
Choosing the Right Wooden Toy
Before you begin, decide what type of toy you want to create. Wooden toys with wheels come in many forms, including: trains, Trucks, cars, boats, planes, helicopters.
It’s best to start with a simple design before moving on to more complex ones.
Gathering Supplies and Tools
The next step is collecting your materials. Visit your local hardware store for the basic tools and supplies. They will usually have everything you need, except the wheels themselves. You’ll also need glue or another way to attach the wheels securely to your toy.
Essential supplies may include:
-
Wooden blocks or cut pieces for the body
-
Wheels (can be bought separately or reused from old toys)
-
Glue or nails
-
Sandpaper
-
Paint and brushes
Choosing the Right Wheels
Selecting the right wheel size is important for both functionality and appearance. Make sure you choose wheels that:
-
Fit the toy’s proportions
-
Allow enough clearance for movement
-
Are durable and easy to attach
A steady hand is necessary when attaching the wheels so you don’t damage the toy during assembly.
Painting and Finishing
Once the wheels are attached, you can paint your toy. Use simple, inexpensive brushes and non-toxic paints suitable for wood. Painting not only adds color and personality but also helps protect the wood from wear and tear.
Where to Find Extra Parts
If you need additional parts, garage sales are a fantastic option. You can often find old toys or furniture with reusable pieces at a low cost. Alternatively, some companies sell toy-making parts online and even ship internationally.
Building a Toy Car
One of the most popular wooden toys with wheels is the toy car. Constructing your own car can be a fun weekend project. Just remember to plan ahead:
-
Measure your toy carefully
-
Decide where each part will go
-
Make sure all components fit properly
Planning will save you time and prevent issues during assembly.
Tips for Successful Toy Building
-
Plan ahead: Measure and sketch your design before cutting or assembling
-
Work safely: Use child-safe paints and keep sharp tools out of reach of kids
-
Consider the environment: Weather can affect wood projects, so work in a dry, well-lit space
-
Have the right tools: You may need tools for lifting, pushing, or adjusting parts during assembly
Final Thoughts
Building wooden toys with wheels is a creative, enjoyable project for beginners and experienced woodworkers alike. With some planning, basic tools, and a bit of patience, you can create unique toys that children will love for years to come.
Whether you make a simple car or an elaborate train, the process itself is just as rewarding as the final toy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aleksandra Djurdjevic
Senior Content Creator
Aleksandra Djurdjevic is a senior writer and editor, covering jewelry, accessories, and trends. She’s also works with services, home décor. She has previously worked as ESL teacher for English Tochka. Aleksandra graduated from the Comparative Literature department at the Faculty of Philosophy in Serbia. Aleksandra’s love for the environment, crafts and natural products over the years helps her continue to be a top expert at Wooden Earth.
