How to Make Figures Out of Wood
- 1). Cut out a pattern and trace the image on the plywood with a pencil. Patterns are readily available in books or online, and you can size them larger or smaller on a copier, according to your design needs. Patterns such as people or animals are easy to trace and cut.
- 2). Saw through the plywood with a jigsaw, making sure that you have a firm grip on both the saw and the wood. Use 3/4-inch or 1-inch plywood for free-standing toys such as dinosaurs or clown figures. Using a thicker plywood will allow small figures to standd by themselves. Follow the pattern you traced. Work patiently, one section at a time, taking time to carefully work around details such as stems in flowers or around arms in people shapes.
- 3). Sand all rough edges. This will prevent splinters, give the figure a finished look and make painting smoother. Choose a 220-grit sandpaper to knock off any roughness.
- 4). Paint your figure, following your pattern's design. Use bright colors for outdoor decorations so that they stand out in your yard, and when making toy figures, use non-toxic paint so that it is safe for children. To make lawn ornaments last longer, use glossy paints. Allow the paint to dry before handling.
- 5). Lay the figure flat on your work table and hammer in sawtooth hangers to the back for wall decorations. If using dowels for stakes, drill a hole in the bottom of your figure and glue the end of a dowel into it.
