How to Build a Bear Desktop
A desktop is a personal space on which your child can create artwork, complete homework or use a home computer. Most desktops are normally bland slabs of wood that are not very inviting or inspiring to a child. However, building a stylish desktop that is both playful and inviting has the potential to make the space a joyful one, as well as be a piece of furniture that can be handed down through generations. A bear desktop can be crafted with only a few supplies, a little time and imagination.
Instructions
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Preparation
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1
Plug in your wood burning tool next to the desktop and allow it to heat up.
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2
Measure the wood desktop, then transfer your measurements to a large sheet of plain paper.
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3
Design the bear on the paper with a pencil. Give the bear distinctive characteristics, such as a hair bow, sad eyes or a big smile.
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4
Lay your completed design next to the desktop and draw your design on to the wood.
Wood Burning
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5
Outline the entire bear drawing on the desktop with the wood burning tool. Press down on the tip of the wood burning tool and make short strokes to carve the wood.
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6
Carve the bear shape again with the wood burning tool, this time pressing down firmly with the long edge of the wood burning tool throughout the entire design.
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7
Create shadows on the image with the wood burning tool by tilting the tool to the side and pressing into the wood.
Protective Coating
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8
Apply clear polyurethane to the desktop using a paintbrush.
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9
Allow the first coat of polyurethane to dry completely.
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10
Apply a second coat of polyurethane to the entire desktop and allow to dry.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Water-based polyurethane cleans up much easier than oil-based polyurethane after you complete your project. However, oil-based polyurethane does give your wood a richer finish and tends to last longer than water-based polyurethane.
