Turning Toys with Richard Raffan

Turn your workshop into one of the happiest places on the planet! With the guidance of Richard Raffan, the dean of woodturning, and the projects in Turning Toys, you can outdo Santa’s elves. Create custom toys right in your own workshop and see the little ones' eyes light up with joy!

Have a ball honing your turning techniques. Repetition is the key to mastering any craft, and these projects are in part skill-builders so you'll continue to refine your skills as you repeat them. You’re sure to get plenty of practice because young boys and girls can never have too many peg dolls, balls, or things on wheels. You'll find ways to salvage a situation if, as can happen, there’s a catch or the wood splits. Little snafus become big opportunities to get creative and who knows how that will turn out – funny or fabulous, or both!

Expert guidance every step of the way. A delight to look at, Turning Toys is filled with practical advice to help you succeed and enjoy great satisfaction from creating beautiful toys. With over 360 photos and drawings, you’ll learn exactly how to use all the tools required, control the cutting edge, and work comfortably at your lathe.

Beloved playthings today...handmade heirlooms tomorrow. Turning Toys will inspire you to try your hand at a variety of wooden toys you won’t find in stores: racing cars, wands, stackers, spinning tops, even a handsome croquet set. Get your copy and turn out toys that will delight the children in your life.