A Handmade Cradle to Rock Your Baby’s World

Any mom or dad who’s walked the floor at 2 a.m. trying to soothe a fussy baby knows all the tricks--a ticking clock, a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel, even a late-night ride in the car. Nothing, however, beats the gentle swaying of a rocking cradle for helping little ones calm down and fall asleep.

With that in mind, any do-it-yourselfer with a baby on the way may want to tackle this country cradle project. It’s easy to build, and it just may end up a family heirloom. The project features classic country styling and the warm, lasting beauty of pine. It has no sharp edges or points, and the spindle sides allow air to circulate freely.

The cradle is made mostly from a single 1-by-12 pine board and ready-made spindles, and almost all of the pieces are traced from full-size patterns, making them easy to size. After cutting out the pieces, assemble the cradle portion first with wood screws and glue, then the base section. Suspend the cradle from the end posts, sand and apply finish.

The completed project measures 41 inches long by 30 inches tall by 22 inches wide.

The Country-Style Cradle plan, No. 599, is $8.95 and includes step-by-step instructions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, exploded assembly diagrams and a complete shopping list and cutting schedule.

A package of cradle plans, No. C32, is $21.95 and includes plans for this cradle and three others. A catalog with hundreds of projects is $3.95. Prices include postage and handling. Allow three to four weeks for delivery; for rush delivery, add $1 per item up to $3 maximum and seven to 10 days.

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