How to Make a Wooden Easter Bunny Puzzle

In this tutorial, you will learn how to cut, sand and paint a whimsical Easter bunny puzzle for the little ones in your life. I'll also show you how to use a paint pattern for a woodworking project. If you're new to woodworking, make sure you read our tutorial on woodworking fundamental skills.

Supplies

• Timber, at least 20.3cm (8in) wide by 36cm (14in) long and 2cm (0.75in) thick.
  
• Pencil
• Scroll saw or band saw
• Clear packing tape
• Sandpaper
• Pattern
• Non-toxic, child-friendly acrylic paint
  
• Safety glasses
  

1. Cut Out the Puzzle

Step 1

Prepare your puzzle pattern by cutting around the outside of the whole shape. The pattern will be one solid piece. 

Step 2

Using clear packing tape, adhere the pattern to the piece of timber you will be using for the project.

Step 3

Put on your safety glasses and using a band saw or scroll saw, cut out the timber, following the outline of the puzzle. Work carefully and slowly. Once you have finished cutting around the puzzle, use clear tape to adhere the pattern to the timber again. You will need to wrap it around the sides in a few places.

Step 4

Now make the remaining cuts, cutting out each individual puzzle piece. Remove and discard any paper pattern pieces and tape from the puzzle.

Step 5

Carefully sand the edges, faces, and all the nooks and crannies of each puzzle piece.

2. Finish the Puzzle

Step 1

Using a pencil, lightly draw any details directly on to the timber. I've made marks for the bunny's pink nose, white tail and the white portions of the ears. These pencil markings will serve as a guide for painting.

Step 2

Carefully paint the puzzle. Be sure to use a non-toxic, child-friendly paint. These can be found at most crafting and art supply stores. After the paint has dried, some areas might be a bit rough. Gently sand the rough areas and touch up with paint as needed.

You're Done

Well done, you've now completed a super-cute wooden Easter bunny puzzle. It's sure to be wonderful surprise on Easter morning!

You can use the same techniques as outlined in this tutorial to make other wooden puzzles for children. Just make sure you use a simple outline for your pattern.

If you loved this project, you might like to try our other woodworking tutorials.