How to Make a Wooden Doll Cradle

A doll cradle can make an excellent toy for a young child. The size of the cradle is often dictated by the size of the doll the child plays with. The cradle can also take on design elements, giving the toy an early American or country look. The doll cradle can be painted or finished in any manner to match the existing décor of the child’s room or other toys.

Things You'll Need

• 1 inch lumber
• Band or scroll saw
• Finish nails or wood screws
• Stain and varnish or paint

Instructions

1. Choose a set of plans for the wooden doll cradle. Several plans are available commercially through the Internet and home improvement stores. Scalable plans allow different sized doll cradles from the same size instructions.

2. Cut wood pieces to size. Usually built from 1-inch lumber, doll cradles often require curved cuts. Make curved cuts with a band or scroll saw. Sand all cut edges smooth.

3. Assemble the doll cradle according to the instructions with the plans. Small furniture projects often are assembled from the inside out. Put together the bed of the cradle, for example, before assembling the pendulum or the rockers of the cradle. Use finishing nails or small wood screws to assemble the project.

4. Apply paint of finish. Many doll cradles are finished with stains and varnishes. Match the finish to existing toys or the décor of the child’s room. Keep in mind a doll cradle may become an heirloom. You might want to avoid any finish that would not be considered classic.

Tips & Warnings

• Doll cradles can be accessorized with homemade blankets and pillows. Different skills are required for these items. Making a doll cradle and all the fittings can become a family project.

• Use non-toxic paints or varnishes for the finish; children sometimes chew on toys.

• Don’t scale up a doll cradle for use as a baby cradle. Doll cradles don’t meet the safety requirements of a baby cradle and could pose a danger to the child.

References

• AZ Woodman: Doll Cradle Plans
• Etsy: Doll Cradle Kit