Medium Wooden Boar Sculpture with Optional Motorized Movement

Create a charming medium-sized wooden boar sculpture that can be displayed as a static piece or enhanced with a simple motor to add subtle movement. This project combines woodworking with basic electronics for a fun and customizable craft.

Intermediate 6 hours $40
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Design or print out a side profile template of a boar scaled to your desired medium size (around 12-15 inches long).
2. Trace the boar profile twice onto your MDF or plywood sheet.
3. Using a scroll saw or jigsaw, carefully cut out the two boar shapes.
4. Sand all edges smoothly with 120 grit, then finish with 220 grit sandpaper.
5. Cut several small wooden dowels to serve as spacers or to create a 3D layered effect, depending on your design preference.
6. Attach the two boar cutouts together using wood glue, inserting the dowels between them if you want a dimensional body (for example, one dowel near the legs and one near the back). Use clamps or hot glue to hold while drying.
7. Optionally, drill a small hole near the belly or side to mount the motor.
8. Paint or stain your wooden boar as desired, allowing drying time between coats.
9. If adding the motor: Attach the hobby motor securely inside or on the side of the boar using hot glue.
10. Connect the motor to the battery holder and switch using thin wire, ensuring all connections are secure.
11. Attach a small cam or off-center weight to the motor shaft to create a wobbling movement when powered.
12. Test the motor operation and secure all electrical components safely inside or under the boar sculpture.
13. Let all glue and paint fully dry before displaying your wooden boar with optional gentle movement.
Materials
Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or plywood sheet (1/2 inch thick)
Wood glue
Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
Wood stain or acrylic paint
Paintbrushes
Small electric hobby motor (3-6V) (optional)
Battery holder and batteries (matching motor voltage) (optional)
Push button switch (optional)
Thin wire (optional)
Small wooden dowels or pegs
Pencil
Scroll saw, jigsaw, or coping saw
Drill with small drill bits
Screwdriver
Hot glue gun or wood clamps
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