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Kids Wheelbarrow

Build your own kids wheelbarrow from pine boards with. Built and photographed by Jaime Costiglio for Handbuilt Holiday.

Kids Wheelbarrow

Specifications

Project typeToys
RoomKids and Toys
DifficultyIntermediate

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Kids Wheelbarrow dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 3 feet of 1x6 board (for bucket)
  • 9-1/2" x 10-1/2" - 1/4" plywood
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 4" wood wheel
  • 1 - 1/4” x 60mm connecting bolt & nut
  • 1-1/4" self tapping screws
  • 3/4" brad nails
  • wood glue

Cut List

  • 2 - 1x6 @ 12-1/4” - long point to long point, both ends 10 degree miter not parallel (long sides)
  • 2 - 1x6 @ 8”
  • 1 - 1/4” plywood 9 1/2” x 10-1/2" (base)
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 21 1/2” (handles)
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 5” - longest point measurement, one end 10 degree miter (legs)
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 5” - long point to long point, both ends 10 degree miter not parallel (long support)
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 3” - long point to long point, both ends 10 degree miter not parallel (short support)
  • 1 - 4” wheel (can cut from 1x material)

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • drill
  • compound miter saw
  • nailer
  • sander
  • countersink drill bit

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Build the frame for the kids wheelbarrow. I recommend 1-1/4" self tapping wood screws and glue, countersink slightly below surface of wood.

Kids Wheelbarrow — step 1
2

Drill holes and add wheel with bolts.

Add legs with 1-1/4" self tapping screws and glue.

Kids Wheelbarrow — step 2
3

Build the bucket with 1-1/4" brad nails (or you can use screws).

Attach 1/4" plywood to the bottom with 3/4" brad nails and glue.

Kids Wheelbarrow — step 3
4

Step 4

Attach bucket to frame with 1-1/4" screws into the wheelbarrow handle 1x2s.

Kids Wheelbarrow — step 4
5

Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.

Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/kids-wheelbarrow