Make It Small Carousel
Instruction
This intricately designed miniature carousel is crafted for xTool's "Make It Small" contest. Created from xTool Basswood plywood, this enchanting piece captures the nostalgia and magic of a classic merry-go-round, complete with detailed horses, elegant star engravings, and a tiered structure that gives it a grand, yet compact presence.
The carousel showcases fine craftsmanship, with precision-cut interlocking pieces, delicate accents, and a charming star topper, bringing the whimsy of a carnival ride to life in a small-scale format.
A perfect collector’s piece, display item, or conversation starter, this miniature wooden carousel is a tribute to the art of laser cutting and design innovation. Let the nostalgia spin with this beautifully detailed creation! 🎠✨
1. Open Creative Space and load the project file.
2. Select your material. For this project, I used xTool’s PL002 3mm Basswood Plywood.
3. Check your settings before engraving and cutting. Adjust the preset settings as needed based on your laser’s power.
4. Ensure compatibility. This project was created on the xTool P2s but can be cut on any of xTool’s desktop lasers.
Arrange the pieces exactly as shown in the project file to ensure proper alignment and fit.
1. Assemble the “Bottom” Section:
• Identify the widest section with 9 panel pieces.
• Glue and assemble the pieces.
• Set aside to dry before moving on.
2. Assemble the “Inside Top” Section:
• Find the two main pieces in this section—both have holes.
• This section consists of 8 panels.
• The piece with the single hole will be the top side.
• The piece with multiple holes will be the bottom side.
• The stem section attaches to the center group of holes.
• The outer holes will hold the animals in place.
• Glue and assemble, then set aside to dry.
3. Assemble the “Outside Top” Section:
• This section contains 11 panels.
• Glue and assemble all pieces.
• Set aside to dry.
1. Identify the Parts:
• The Middle Stem consists of 4 panels.
• Each panel has legs—one side is much longer than the other.
• Locate the two round pieces shown in the reference image.
2. Assemble the Stem:
• Insert the longer legs of the panels into the larger round piece.
• Apply a small dab of glue in the center where the legs protrude.
• Slide the smaller round piece onto the stem, pressing it firmly against the glued area.
3. Let It Dry:
• Set the assembled piece aside to fully dry before moving on.
1. Attach the Middle Stem:
• Apply glue to the shorter legs of the Middle Stem.
• Securely attach it to the Inside Top piece.
2. Insert the Animals:
• Apply glue to each animal piece and insert them into the 8 holes on the Inside Top section.
• If desired, arrange them in a specific order. For mine, I mirrored the pattern of 1-4 with 5-8.
3. Let It Dry:
• Set the assembled piece aside to dry completely before handling.
1. Secure the Middle Stem to the Bottom Piece:
• Find the last round piece.
• Insert the Middle Stem into the Bottom piece.
• Apply glue to the last round piece and attach it from the bottom upward to lock the stem in place.
• This allows the carousel to spin while remaining securely attached.
2. Connect the Top Sections:
• Align and attach the Outside Top section to the Inside Top section.
3. Install the Star Topper:
• Glue the two Star Topper pieces together.
• Insert the long stem of the Star Topper through both the Outside Top and Inside Top sections.
• Apply glue to secure it firmly in place.
4. Allow to Dry:
• Set the fully assembled carousel aside to dry completely before handling.
1. Check and Clean:
• Once the glue is fully dry, remove any excess glue for a clean finish.
2. Apply a Finish:
• Choose your preferred wood finish and apply it evenly.
3. Test the Rotation:
• Ensure the carousel spins smoothly—if assembled correctly, it should rotate freely.
4. Enjoy Your Carousel!