How to Make a Climbing Bear Toy

 This classic child's toy is the perfect project for Proxxon tools.

Supplies and Equipment

• 6" x 7" x ½" MDF or hardwood
• 56" length of cord 
• 2 ¾" wooden beads or candle cups
• Climbing Bear Pattern
• Proxxon Scroll Saw DS 460
• Proxxon Professional Rotary Tool IBS/E
• Proxxon Drill Stand MB 200
• Proxxon Delta Sander OZI/E

Instructions

1. Mount the climbing bear pattern on the MDF. Cover one side of the blank with painter's tape. Mist the back side of the pattern with spray adhesive, and mount on the taped blank. The painter's tape made removal of the pattern easy without leaving any sticky residue.
   
   
   
2. Cut the bear on the scroll saw.
   
   
   
3. The hash marks on the bear's paw indicate the channel for the cord. Mark the center between the hash marks on the edge of the paw.
   
   
   
4. Adjust the angle of the drill stand to 55°.
   
   
   
5. Drill a hole in each paw to follow the direction of the hash marks.
   
   
   
6. Cut hanging rod 7" long x ¾" wide. Measure and mark holes for cord.
   
   
   
7. Drill holes in the hanging rod using a piece of waste wood under the rod to minimize tear out.
   

   

   
   
   
   
8. If necessary, sand edges with Delta sander.
   
   
   
9. Paint with FolkArt acrylic paints. Optionally, add facial features.
10. Cut cord into two 25" lengths and on 6" length. Thread the 25" cords through the end holes of the hanging rod, bear's paws, and candle cups, tying knots to secure them in place. Thread the 6" cord through the center hole of the hanging rod and make a loop for hanging. Secure in place with knots.
11. Make the bear climb—hang by the center loop and alternately pull one cord then the other. Continue until the bear has "climbed" to reach the hanging rod. Release the cords, and the bear slides back down.
    
    

Carole