Baby Cradle
We keep a running list of project possibilities. In addition to staff suggestions, the list includes reader requests. Based on that, this heirloom-quality cradle is going to satisfy quite a number of people.
It’s what I call a generational project. Shortly after learning of an upcoming birth, a woodworking grandparent (usually) starts thinking about building something special. When the little one comes home, there’s a handmade gift waiting. After serving its purpose, the cradle can be passed along to another family member or treasured until the next baby. In time, the original occupants may use the same cradle for their own children — continuing the tradition.
Understandably, most of the attention will be on the baby inside, but the cradle should still look the part. This one is made primarily from beech with its understated grain and mellow tones. The cherry panels along the sides add a pleasing contrast that will only improve over time.
Considering that you may not have a lot of time to get this project completed, all the parts are assembled with routercut, loose tenon joinery. And the process is pretty straightforward.
Solid-wood ENDS
It’s a bit of a chicken and egg dilemma whether to construct the stand or the cradle first. I settled on making the cradle first if for no other reason than to see the project take shape a little quicker.
The two end panels that you need are pretty large (upper drawing), so they’ll require gluing up from several narrower boards. Go for the best look and keep
