Susan recently suggested that our new granddaughter, Ava, should have a rocking horse. She googled the internet and found a photo that could be easily converted to a dimensioned drawing. This particular design is perfect for toddlers. It's built with rounded edges and corners, back support, and will not tip over. A special gift from "grandpa & grandma."
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| Ava on her Rockin' Pony |
I started the plans with a sketch and then drew the project full size on butcher paper in order to get the proportions correct. As it turned out, I needed to change the original dimensions. I chose Maple hardwood for the project because of its durability, machines well and finishes nicely.
I made full size patterns out of hardboard for the rockers and pony head. This was useful as a guide for trimming and smoothing the curved edges with the router. Also a pattern for future rockin' ponies.
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| 4/4 Maple and Patterns |
After all the parts were cut, the next step was to cut dado joints on the inside face of the rockers. The dado joints were used for strength and alignment for the cross braces. The router and dado jig provided the best method for completing the task.
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| Set up for Making Dado Joints |
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| Assembly Process |
Because this is a child's toy, I chose to use a non-toxic finish. I wiped on four coats of 100% Pure Tung Oil. I rubbed the surface with 0000 steel wool between coats. This was my first experience using Pure Tung Oil and I discovered that drying time was very lengthy. I did a little research and found that thinning with Citrus Solvent speeds up drying time and increases penetration. Citrus Solvent is also non-toxic and environmentally friendly.
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| Finish |
This project turned out to be a fun build. I had great satisfaction building something for little Ava.
