Cardinals are a favorite symbol of winter and the holidays, and their bold silhouette makes them perfect for woodworking projects. I’ll show you how to create a simple wooden cardinal using Proxxon MICROMOT tools, plus share finishing techniques and creative ways to use your bird once it’s complete.
Supplies and Equipment:
¼”–½” thick wood or MDF blanks
Wood stain, acrylic paint, or colored pencils for finishing
Clear sealer (polyurethane, lacquer, or matte spray)
Let’s make a Winter Cardinal:
Step 1: Prepare Your Template
Print the Cardinal Templates and select your desired size.
Mount the pattern on blanks. Cover one side of the blank with painter's tape. Mist the back side of the patterns with spray adhesive, and mount on the taped blank. The painter's tape made removal of the patterns easy without leaving any sticky residue.
Step 2: Cut Shapes
Use the bandsaw to cut each shape of the cardinal.
Alternatively, the cardinal pieces can be cut using the scroll saw.
Step 3: Sanding & Smoothing
Sand any rough edges of the larger pieces using the disc sander.
Sand edges of smaller pieces using the Delta sander. I mount my sander in the Precision Vice FMZ so I can have both hands free to manipulate the piece I'm working on.
If necessary, use the pen sander for tight spots around the beak and tail.
Step 4: Assembly
Attach the wing to the body of the cardinal using liquid wood adhesive.
Step 5: Finishing Techniques
Here are a few ways to bring your cardinal to life:
Natural Look: On wood shapes, apply a light wood stain and seal.
Painted Cardinal: Use red shade of acrylic paint for the body, black for the mask, and orange for the beak.
Rustic Style: Try a dry‑brush technique with red paint over a stained base for a weathered effect.
Colored Pencil Shading: For a softer, hand‑drawn look, layer colored pencils and seal with clear spray.
Creative Uses for Your Wooden Cardinal
Christmas Ornaments: Drill a small hole at the top, add ribbon or twine, and hang on your tree.
Magnets: Attach a strong magnet to the back for a seasonal fridge decoration.
Wall Art: Mount several cardinals on a wooden plaque for a nature‑inspired display.
Gift Toppers: Tie one onto a wrapped present for a handmade touch.
Table Décor: Scatter painted cardinals across a holiday table for a festive centerpiece.
Floral Spike: Drill a hole in the bottom side of the body to accommodate a ⅛” dowel rod. Cut the dowel rod to desired length, and glue in the hole. The cardinal can be used as an addition to a seasonal centerpiece.
This cardinal project is a wonderful way to practice either bandsaw or scroll saw shaping while creating something seasonal and versatile. Whether you keep the finish natural or go bold with paint, your handmade bird will add charm to your holiday décor—or make a thoughtful gift.
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| Carole |
