To get involved, just follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1 – Choose a toy from our list of favorites -- Visit our Toy Gallery to see a large selection of popular toys.
This year we will focus on the following toys – choose any of them to download a description,
a materials list, all building instructions and any patterns required:
Step 2 – Download the instructions
The gallery includes a description including a picture of the completed toy, a materials list, instructions, and a pattern which you can print out. Or you may prefer to create your own toy — modify one of our designs to fit your preferences, or if you have an idea for a different toy, make it! When you finish, we would appreciate it if you could send us a picture, list of materials, instructions, and plans so we can publish your work in our gallery of toys.
Step 3 – Acquire the materials
We encourage members to acquire their own materials for these projects. For most toys, you probably already have the basic materials in your shop. Some toys may require wheels, pegs, or other special components — the Guild will provide them for free whenever we can (contact our Toy Director), or you can try a Patron sponsor, a local craft store, or an on-line supplier. Please read our “Overview” document for specific materials required for donated toys. You can also watch Doug Pisik’s demonstration on how to make your own toy wheels!
Step 4 – Make multiples
Especially for the simpler toys, make more than one — make a dozen! Once you are set up to make a cut or drill some holes, it is quick to make multiples.
Step 5 - Apply a surface finish (but please do not use any finish on donated toys!)
We suggest shellac for a finish, since it is easy to apply with a brush, cloth, or spray. If you have components with surfaces that might be inaccessible after assembly (like the inside of wheels), just pre-finish those areas before assembly.
Step 6 – If you are donating to our Toy program…
Whenever you complete a batch of toys, you can just deliver them to us at the next Guild meeting, or bring them to one of our designated collection points around the Atlanta area (click HERE for the locations), or click to coordinate with us to pick up your finished toys.