Today’s project

Like penguins and zebras and panda bears, the distinctive black-and-white markings that characterize orcas (or “killer whales”) make them instantly recognizable. That’s probably why kids love them.

Now virtually any do-it-yourselfer can add a rocking version of this favorite to a child’s menagerie for less than $50. The secret is that the entire project is made from a single sheet of plywood (birch as pictured, but any plywood free of voids will work).

To build, simply trace the project’s pieces onto the plywood and cut them out. Laminate the pieces together (glue, clamp and allow to cure) to achieve the necessary thickness. The laminated construction not only makes the project inexpensive, but it actually makes it much stronger than the equivalent dimensional lumber, and much easier to work with.

Once the pieces are cured, sand everything, paint according to the guide included on the pattern and assemble using glue and screws. Once the glue’s dry, your whale is ready to rock.

The rocking whale measures 43 inches long by 16 inches wide by 25 inches tall.

The Rocking Whale plan, No. 913, is $9.95 and includes step-by-step instructions with six photos, full-size traceable patterns, construction diagrams, a cutting layout, a complete shopping list and cutting schedule and a toll-free help line for project questions.

A package of four rocking toy projects, No. C73, is $24.95 and includes plans for two rocking horses, a rocking airplane and a rocking dinosaur. A catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $2. Please include $4 for postage and handling (except catalog-only orders) and allow about two weeks for delivery.

To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o (The Spokesman-Review, 15241 Stagg St., Van Nuys, CA 91405.

To order by credit card, call (800) 828-2453. Visit U-Bild on the web at u-bild.com.