DIY Tree Branch Blocks - Waldorf Toys

A very simple and almost free Waldorf style toy is tree Branch Blocks. You need a few tools and you can find fallen tree branch most anywhere. This is a project I have done with my children even, but they make amazing gifts too. They look expensive when finished and there is so much creativity to make them however you want to. These provide hours of play for children of all ages.

What you need-

1. Tree branches at least 2 inch in diameter in varying sizes (Tip: to avoid sap oozing out try to find branches that have dried out for at least a year, otherwise you will likely have sap issues.)

2. A saw and a safe cutting space (please use caution and common sense when handle tools and cutting)

3. Sandpaper coarse and fine grit

4. Beeswax wood polish

Steps:

1. Gather supplies and find a safe space to work.

2. Cut branches in varying lengths be sure to always have a flat even bottom and top.

3. To prevent bugs and moisture I usually will oven dry my wood after I cut it on a cookie sheet for 1-2 hrs. At 200 degrees fahrenheit.(you don’t want to see any blacking or burning look. Please use caution and common sense. Lower the heat to the lowest setting, I wouldn’t do this in open flame oven of any kind. Wood is flammable so use your best judgement.)

4. After wood has cooled, sand any rough spots and the ends tell smooth. You may remove or keep the bark depending on what you feel works best for the wood you use.

5. Polish all the pieces with Beeswax wood polish you can make your own (recipe found here) or purchase. Be sure is that it is non toxic if you are giving the block to toddlers who still mouth toys.

Now you have a fancy beautiful open ended natural toy to wow, everyone with.