DIY Project

Wood · Father's Day · Kids

Wooden race car

Sand, paint and build a wooden race car from a kit block, then race it down a ramp against the family.

Wooden race car
LevelIntermediate
AgesAges 6 to 10
Time1 hour plus drying
Cost$6 to $15

What you'll need

Materials

Tick them off as you find them.

Tools

How to make it

Safety

Small wheels and axles are choking hazards for kids under 3.

  1. Step 1: Sand the body
    1

    Sand the body

    Sand the whole body with 120 grit, then 220. Run your hand over it. It should feel like a table top.

  2. Step 2: Wipe the dust
    2

    Wipe the dust

    Wipe it with a damp paper towel and let it dry.

  3. Step 3: Paint it
    3

    Paint it

    Paint a base color. Let it dry 30 minutes, then add a second coat.

  4. Step 4: Add the details
    4

    Add the details

    Add racing stripes, a number and stickers.

  5. Step 5: Put on the wheels
    5

    Put on the wheels

    Grown-up step: tap the axles into the slots with a small hammer. Leave a tiny gap so the wheels spin.

  6. Step 6: Race
    6

    Race

    Lean a board on a couch to make a ramp. Line up the cars and let go at the same time.

Edie's tip

Spin each wheel before racing. If one rubs the body, pull its axle out a hair.

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