Childrens Toys advice

[justsomegeek]

Hi Folks,

Apologies for the flurry of postings, but as i am trying to make the transition from cowboy DIYer to hobbyist, i have a load of things i need to learn to be able to do things properly, and i'm keen to get started.

I'd like to have a go at making some kids toys and have decided to build a dual-use bus(?)/toybox for starters. It'll mostly be made of flat panels i guess. I'd like a shiny gloss-painted finish to cover up my dodgy woodworking.


Could anybody recommend some kid-safe woods/materials and paints available in the UK?

Should i be using some sort of protective clear laquer to finish?

Any favourite places to order wheels. etc online?

Is there a way of hinging the lid without using screws? As i'd like to make this with as few point metal bits as possible.

I know to round off sharp edges/corners, but any other tips are more than welcome.

I'm in Glasgow if that's any help.

Thank you,
Glenn

 

[EssexChris]

Hi Glenn,

Paint finishes for toys should be compliant with EN71.

Not many companies manufacture to this specification one who does is:-

ECOS Organic Paints.

http://www.ecosorganicpaints.co.uk/stor ... d_106.html

I have not used this paint personally yet but am about to order some for a few projects.

Hope this is of some help.

Chris.

 

[goldeneyedmonkey]

Google Product Search's is your friend. Click the link and that's a search on 'EN71 Paints', have a look through their descriptions to make sure they actually are and you're onto a winner.

Hope that helps. Cheers _Dan

 

[justsomegeek]

Thanks chaps, that's exactly what i was hoping for.

Cheers,
Glenn