Wooden dummies can be used for many different things such as whimsical holiday display items or even using them as lawn ornaments. For the theatrical person, wooden dummies make easy and affordable stage props that can be used over again. Since they are simple to make, you can make a wooden dummy audience for a stage play in less time than it would take you to located pre-made ones. There are instructions you can follow for making a professional looking wooden dummy.
Instructions
1. Purchase your plywood. At your local hardware or home improvement store, purchase a sheet of 3/4-inch plywood. The sheet of plywood should be slightly bigger than the anticipated size of your wooden dummy.
2. Draw an outline of your dummy. On your plywood, draw the outline of the dummy, making sure you make the outline simple enough for your table saw router to follow. Intricate lines and curves make it difficult to navigate your router. Your outlined sketch should include a head, body and all extremities.
3. Position the plywood on the table saw router. Carefully and slowly follow the outline of your dummy with your router until the complete figure has been cut out of the sheet. By avoiding intricate and elaborate lines and twists, this process is quick and seamless.
4. Sand your edges. Sand down the edges of your wooden dummy until they feel smooth and are void of sharp, slivered edges and protrusions.
5. Paint your dummy. Paint your wooden dummy using a creative flair. Begin by giving the whole piece a base coat in a neutral color, and after it thoroughly dries, paint additional details, such as the face. You can paint clothes on the dummy or dress it with regular clothing.
