Project description
I am looking for an experienced woodworker or carver to build a one-of-a-kind rocking horse for my daughter, who is turning five this winter. This is not a laser-cut or CNC kit — I specifically want a hand-carved piece, with visible tool marks and character in the mane, the muscles of the legs, and the curve of the neck. I have seen a few antique rocking horses from the early 1900s and I would love something in that spirit, but scaled properly for a small child and built to modern safety standards.
For material I am leaning toward basswood or soft maple for the body because I have read they carve cleanly and hold detail well, but I am open to your recommendation if you think another wood would carve or wear better for a toy that will get years of active use. The rockers themselves should be a stronger hardwood like ash or oak so they hold up to repeated motion without splitting. Please tell me what you would actually choose and why, rather than just going with what I suggested.
On finish: I want a painted body in a soft dove-grey or cream tone, not a bright primary color, with the mane and tail either carved and painted or done in real horsehair-style rope if that is something you offer. All paint and sealant must be non-toxic and safe for a child who will touch and chew on the ears and mane at some point, that is a hard requirement, not a suggestion. A hand-stitched leather or rope bridle and saddle strap would be a lovely detail if it is within scope.
My budget for this commission is in the 350 to 400 dollar range, which I understand is modest for true hand-carving, so I am hoping to find someone early in their carving business who wants a good portfolio piece, or someone who can work efficiently with a semi-carved blank and finish the detail work by hand. I would need the finished horse within two to three weeks since it is meant to be a surprise for a family visit. Please share photos of similar work, your wood and finish recommendations, and a rough timeline before we agree on anything.
For material I am leaning toward basswood or soft maple for the body because I have read they carve cleanly and hold detail well, but I am open to your recommendation if you think another wood would carve or wear better for a toy that will get years of active use. The rockers themselves should be a stronger hardwood like ash or oak so they hold up to repeated motion without splitting. Please tell me what you would actually choose and why, rather than just going with what I suggested.
On finish: I want a painted body in a soft dove-grey or cream tone, not a bright primary color, with the mane and tail either carved and painted or done in real horsehair-style rope if that is something you offer. All paint and sealant must be non-toxic and safe for a child who will touch and chew on the ears and mane at some point, that is a hard requirement, not a suggestion. A hand-stitched leather or rope bridle and saddle strap would be a lovely detail if it is within scope.
My budget for this commission is in the 350 to 400 dollar range, which I understand is modest for true hand-carving, so I am hoping to find someone early in their carving business who wants a good portfolio piece, or someone who can work efficiently with a semi-carved blank and finish the detail work by hand. I would need the finished horse within two to three weeks since it is meant to be a surprise for a family visit. Please share photos of similar work, your wood and finish recommendations, and a rough timeline before we agree on anything.
Other / Miscellaneous Cash, Bank transfer
