Hi friends! Wondering which books inspire us as crafters? Here's a review by Amy of Making Toys That Teach by Les Neufeld (copyright 2003 The Taunton Press)
"Today's toys are different from toys when I was a kid. Every toy nowadays buzzes, beeps, plays music or even talks to kids. While kids do enjoy these battery-operated toys, I think they are missing one crucial aspect of play - creativity.
This is what drew me to check out Making Toys That Teach. This book includes easy to follow plans for making wooden toys as simple as a set of blocks made primarily from scrap pieces of wood and as complex as an eight-car train set. Plans include both top and side views with measurements and step-by-step instructions for how to put it together. I found the plans quite easy to follow. Mr. Neufeld suggests adding color to the toys by either using simple food coloring or using different, contrasting hardwoods.
For Christmas last year I made the train set for my nieces, aged 2 and 4 now. I used a variety of woods to build it and it turned out both beautiful and fun. My younger niece, in particular, loves to take the pieces off of the train and put them back on.
I thoroughly enjoyed Making Toys That Teach, not just because, as a woodworker, I appreciate the detailed plans and instructions. I love the concept behind the book - toys can and should encourage children to use their imagination and be creative."
Do you have creative books that inspire you? We'd love to hear from you...so we can read them too!
Have a crafty day!
Your friends at Fiddle & Frog
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