How to Make a Baby's Rocking Chair

Cutting the Pieces

• 1

  Saw sections of plywood into the various parts of the rocking chair. Cut the back panel at least 23 inches tall and 16 inches across. This height will leave room for the interlocking track while also being tall enough to support the child’s back.

• 2

  Cut the seat panel 18 inches wide and 12 to 13 inches deep. As with all parts of the chair, use 3/4-inch plywood to provide enough thickness to support the weight of the child on the tracks cut by the router.

• 3

  Make the side panels, or jig, of the rocking chair 16 inches high by 26 inches wide. Cut this piece from the top of the side panel to the bottom, at first cutting the edges at a 30-degree angle. This will allow you to create a softly rounded edge at the bottom of the side panel that makes for gentle rocking motion. Once the bottom is the correct width and curve, cut the tip of the angle off squaring the top at 16 inches high.

Drilling and Routing

• 4

  Drill two screw holes into each side piece about two thirds up and 6 inches apart. These screw holes will screw into the seat and fasten the parts together.

• 5

  Use the router to make track lines in each piece that will hold adjoining pieces. Route 0.25 inches deep into the side panels a gently recessing track that is 18 inches long and 0.75 inches wide. This will provide a solid track for the seat. Also, cut a vertical track at the end of the seat track at a 100-degree-wide angle, cutting down 2 inches and up through the top of the side piece. This will provide an adequate track for the seat back.

• 6

  Create a routed track along the width of the piece, 2 inches from the bottom of the seat backing. In this track will fit the seat.

Assembly

• 7

  Fit all pieces together in their proper tracks using wood glue to hold them tightly in place. Allow time to dry.

• 8

  Screw the support screws into the holes drilled into the side pieces. They should fit snugly into the seat. Cap with protective rubber caps on the end to prevent injury.

• 9

  Paint or stain to desired shade. Using a waterproof stain will prevent harm from spilled juices and food.