Add wheels and handles to wagons for an enjoyable DIY family project! Choose one of the six approaches below to personalize the wagon to meet the needs of your child.
Wagons are instantly recognizable to most as vehicles used by pioneers across America. You can use one to make a miniature covered wagon perfect for children to travel in.
Make a Plan
Wagons are an ideal toy for children; they require no batteries and will last a lifetime with proper care and assembly. Plus, it reminds parents of simpler times while creating new traditions - why not give Dad all of the supplies needed to build his very own wagons and start creating lasting memories together this Father's Day?
Begin by gathering materials to construct your wagon. Shoe boxes make an excellent base, though reusing old dresser drawers or wooden crates could save money and add rustic touches. If desired, upcycling an old metal locker basket into shelving may make an intriguing handle option!
Draw a circle for your wagon box's axles using either a compass or by attaching a pencil and tack to string with a piece of string, cutting out this circle with a saw, then sanding its edges for smooth surfaces.
To create the cab of your wagon box, add two to three strips of cardstock or thin cardboard that measure about an inch longer than its narrow end, secured using pipe cleaners or skewers, creating arches. Secure them further by placing a support piece near its front to help stabilize it.
Cut the Base
A simple wagon frame can be created out of 2x4s cut to various lengths - four at 32.5 inches and two at 22 inches should serve as the basis of your wagon and will serve as its foundation, where all sides and roof panels will attach securely. Molding may also be added at this point so they line up with brackets on the cab roof.
Your next task should be to cut two solid wood blocks for wheel trucks that will be bolted onto the back of your wagon, where wheels can be secured to axles. A piece of scrap metal may be used as an axle yoke; simply drill a hole and chisel away any excess metal to achieve this effect, adding an "Locking Pillow Block Housing with attachment holes for screws can keep axles from disengaging from bearings.
Build a 'locking' handle for the wagon using two wood dowels and some PVC pipe. Bore through one long dowel and fit over the short one, using eye screws or other means to connect both pieces if necessary; alternatively you could add a mechanism that swivels instead if PVC pipe is unavailable.
Add the Slats
There is something magical about wagons that captures children's imaginations. Not only are they timeless toys that require no batteries but building one can create lasting memories between parent and child alike. Building one together with your kids makes for an excellent DIY project and lasting memories will surely follow.
No matter your style of choice - classic wooden wagon or contemporary PVC pipe model - there are numerous wagon styles available to you for making. Some options such as fold-down seats and removable sides allow you to personalize it according to your specifications.
Steel, aluminum, or plastic wagons may better suit your lifestyle needs; such as steel being more resistant than wood when it comes to rough environments or hauling heavier loads.
To give your wagon an eye-catching edge, add decorations or paint it. Or turn it into a cooler by attaching a trough in the back that can hold ice and beverages for your children on hot days. Or why not upcycle an old dresser drawer or wooden crate into a wagon for your kids instead - saving money while making something truly custom! You could even try spray stain for an aged appearance that won't rub off like paint would.
Secure the Wheels
Wagons must be sturdy to withstand the weight of children inside them. You have several options for purchasing wagon wheels and handles or making your own; some people even choose upcycling old furniture pieces like dresser drawers or wooden crates with wheels and handles installed as an upcycle project!
Building the wheel assembly requires using wood blocks, plywood sheets or 2x4s as necessary. A solid rear axle is equally essential. Any wooden pieces used should be treated with preservatives to prevent warping and ensure an uninterrupted ride. When building the front axle assembly you can make up a simple steering yoke by adding two long pieces of lumber that resemble hitching posts that attach directly to the base and meet up with its back edge - perfect for steering!
To complete the yoke, install a wood screw to secure the handle. Grease any bolts to reduce friction between it and the wheel.
If you're using PVC pipes, apply some PVC cement to both ends of each pipe before fitting the wheel slats - 2x4s are recommended for a robust look, while 1x3 slats offer more versatility. When your wheel slats are secure in their places, install locking pillow blocks before placing axles and tightening them securely to complete your cart!
Add the Canvas
No matter your age or stage in life, building a classic wooden wagon is a straightforward DIY project you're sure to enjoy and will last years after completion. With plenty of tutorials online to guide your way, making one yourself will give your children something fun they won't break easily - something Red Ryder wagons weren't able to provide when we were kids!
Start by drawing out a plan for your wagon. This step should be as detailed or simplistic as desired, and will ensure that all necessary parts have been taken into consideration - this step is especially essential if you are new to woodworking.
Once your plan is drawn out, it's time to construct its base. For this, you will require several pieces of 2x4 that measure out to your intended base length, as well as two boards measuring 8 inches long each - the one located behind your wagon should have a hole drilled for its steering rod; its counterpart should be slightly longer so as to fit over this rod with ease.
Your wagon can have sides if desired and wheels and handles secured. Decorate it as you please using paint or stickers; even reuse an old piece of furniture like a dresser drawer or wooden crate as a wagon!
Add the Handle
A wagon is a timeless toy, making an excellent way to learn reading or transport plants around in your garden, not to mention making for great birthday presents for both children and grown-ups alike. Even better if you make one yourself so it can be customized just for your child!
Start by drawing up a plan for your wagon. It doesn't have to be complex or detailed - simply ensures everything has been taken into consideration and helps determine how much wood to purchase for the project.
Build the base of the wagon. After this step is completed, cut side panels and back rail. Apply a coat of polyurethane and let dry before attaching front and rear panels using 3/4" screws with finish washers.
To secure the wagon wheels to its wagon frame, first assemble its axle. Next, cut and MIG weld four tabs onto its steel frame - two at each corner and one in the middle - with MIG welding rods.
Use the same technique to attach wheel axles as you did for the base. Once complete, your wagon should resemble a box with two sides and a back. Now is when you can begin adding details. For instance, adding bench seats by fastening long pieces of lumber about one foot up on each side. Or adding handles by cutting pieces of dowel to length and threading them through wooden blocks before gluing them down with wood glue.