Wood Automata and Mechanical Toy Making

8 hrs
(11)

Welcome to the magical world of automata - the perfect blend of craftsmanship, engineering and art.

In this hands-on experience, learn about commonly-used toy mechanisms and how to build them. Your knowledgeable host will give you a design, to fill you with inspiration, before you start creating your one-shaft toy. You will build up your craft by learning how to construct every piece, under the guidance of your host.

You’ll be drawing and cutting cams, cranks and mechanisms. Using different types of wood and a vast range of tools throughout the day. Soon handling a bandsaw and pillar drill will feel second nature.

After you have assembled your toys, you can paint them with any of the acrylic paints available. Your host will be there to provide any additional help at every stage of the process.

Once the day wraps up, you’ll understand the basic movements of a mechanical toy, how to design and build eccentric cams, snail cams and plenty more. Guests can expect to finish the day with a lovely, fully-functioning one-shaft mechanical toy. What a joy!

Please note, this experience is limited to 2 people

Minimum fitness level required.

Age restrictions: 14+

Adult (Over 14 ) £150
Group Ticket (Two adults (over 14 year old) from the same family) £280

What people are saying

★★★★★
Sue Thurlow
Oct 2024

Wow, what a lovely day!. I was a woodworking virgin but Stefan is such a patient and supportive ...

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★★★★★
Jeremy Bonnell
Oct 2024

I had a highly enjoyable day. Stef takes you through all the steps of measuring, drilling, cuttin...

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★★★★★
Bernie Henwood
Sep 2024

We had a fantastic day- we made the more advanced toys which we are delighted with! They are beau...

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★★★★★
Omair Nayyar
Sep 2024

Stef is a wonderful teacher and I would highly recommend this course.

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How to get there

Facilities

  • Adult changing
  • Toilets
  • Family friendly

COVID-19 guidelines

  • Only 2 students for each course

On the day

  • Suitable for absolute beginners, as well as those who may already have some experience;
  • Please note, due to the potentially dangerous use of power tools, this course is unsuitable for those aged under 14. Children aged 14 and over may attend if accompanied by a participating adult;
  • For children 7-14 years old, I offer a separate "experience" on Yuup, check it out!

Changes happen, don't worry

How to change dates
Change of plans? You can easily rebook the next available slot up to 7 days before your experience.
How to get a refund
Can't make it? We understand things happen! You can cancel and get a full refund up to 7 days before your experience.
Please note that this refund policy does not apply to gift bookings. You may reschedule your gift if outside the time period stated above. Please note that Yuup gift cards are valid for redemption for 12 months, and if not redeemed by this date, you will get a Yuup credit added to your Yuup account equivalent to the unspent value of the Yuup gift card less a Yuup administration fee of 20%.

You'll be hosted by

Stef Palazzi

Stef will be your Penlan Crafts host. He’s originally from Italy but has lived in many different countries. Stef started designing and building automata in 2013 when he was living in Bangkok. Since then, he’s never stopped. He moved to the UK in 2017 and is happy here!

View more experiences by Penlan Crafts

Any questions?

Ask your question directly to Penlan Crafts.