Click here to see an overview, some guidelines, and tips for our Making and Donating Toys for Kids program. Watch a short video of a happy child with his new doggy pull-toy. Click here to see samples of toys built by members this year for donating to charities.
To get involved, just follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1 – Choose a toy from this year’s list of favorites.
This year we are focusing on the following five toys – choose any one of them to download a description, a materials list, all building instructions, and any required patterns:
Step 2 – OR: Visit our Gallery of Toys to see a larger selection of popular toys.
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 to publish in our list of toys. Visit our Gallery of Toys HERE.
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 those for free whenever we can (just ask!). Or you can try our Patron sponsors, or a local craft store, or even Amazon. 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
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. Please do not use any finish on donated toys!
Step 6 – Tell us when you have completed your toys
When you have completed your toys, just click HERE and we will coordinate with you to pick up all finished toys.