Things You'll Need:
- balsa or other carving wood.
- carving knives
- jig saw, band saw or coping saw
- sand paper
- acrylic paints (non toxic)
- paint brushes
- dowel rod (optional)
- base (optional)
- white wood glue (optional)
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Step 1
Free Running Bunny TemplateThe Pattern: Print out the bunny pattern and transfer it with transfer carbon paper onto your balsa wood block. Cut out the profile with your jig, band or coping saw. Note the pattern shows both sets of legs even. This makes it easier for carving. On the prototype in the picture I staggered the legs making it more difficult to carve. Putting the legs parallel makes it a better "toy" if not put on a stick.
(You may use the template for your own carving. I do not give permission to use my drawing for commercial resale or duplication, I retain copy right.) -
Step 2
Top down viewTop Down Image: Draw out the image from the top down. Cut out this image with your jig, band or coping saw. Note that the front legs, back legs and ears are divided well past where you can cut them with the saws, these must be carefully carved to give a true three dimensional look.
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Step 3
contour detailsDetails: Carve out the head, neck, tail and legs. Round out your bunny, there should be no sharp edges when you are done carving. Ensure you indent behind the rib area, under the head, and inside the ears.
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Step 4
Finished Running RabbitFinishing: Once you are satisfied your bunny looks like the bunny in the photos, sand smoothly and paint with nontoxic acrylic water based paints. I preferred white with pink ears, nose and eyes (black pupils). You can paint your bunny any color you want. You can also add a carved and painted Easter coat, or make him look more like "Peter Rabbit".
