b'pictures: Paul McCredieAlthough he creates the toy boxes and toys using theFor the kids toy boxes, for instance, he located a special same basic templates, Terry says he tries to make eachhinge that allows the box lid to stay in place and stops piece unique in the way theyre decorated. Resene paintsit falling back down on small hands reaching inside are the main differentiating toolblues, reds, yellows andfor treasures.metallic paints for the cars and carriagesand hes alsoTerry spends at least two to three hours in his garage begun experimenting with large stick-ons. workshopeveryweekday,beforehisnightshiftatthe I put a princess in the window of one of the carriageslocal supermarket, and even more time on the weekends. the other day, he points out. Luckily,hiswifeissupportiveofhisgrowingpassion, The templates themselves owe a lot to his creative talents,especially as a couple of the pieces have crept into the garnered in his original career as a cutter and pattern- house. At the moment, their lounge is playing host to designer for clothing. two large toy boxesa Thomas the Tank Engine and a Princess Carriageabout to be whisked off to surprise Its really like what I did when I was cutting clothes. I wouldtwo more children.look at pictures and then make my own designs to suit.Asked to pick a favourite from all his pieces, Terry says he Terrys latest love-affair with woodworking childrens toyshas loved making them all, but he has a special soft spot is not thetime hes fallen for it. In the 1960s, herstfor therst box.used to take part in an annual IHC competition to create wooden toys for the children, but he hadnt rekindled theSeeing it completed and seeing how happy my grandson talent for close to four decades.was, made it something very special.I can remember coming third in New Zealand one year,Regardless of all the hours that go into each piece, he which was great, but then I sort of forgot about it for asays he is never reluctant to let them go.Resene Enamacryl long time. I always loved muddling about with wood, andThe fun of it is in seeing or hearing about how much thegloss waterborne enamel is a hard- houses and that sort of thing, but it wasnt untilxingkids love it. I know theyre going to a good home and I trywearing, easy to now that I have really devoted myself to it. to make them as kid-safe and as kid-proof as possible, socleannish, ideal for childrens toys.Despite being taken by surprise at how popular his workthey should withstand some tough play.has been, Terry says he is always keen to take on differentAnd whats next on the drawing board? There are a few projects and try new things. Resene outstanding family requests to take care of. Hes workingBalloonThats part of the fun guring out how youre goingon a dolls house for his granddaughter and, to rewardResene Honeyto make it and whether you can improve something thehis wifes patience and support, hes currently planning a Resene next time around. cabinet for her doll collection.Pelorous| 83'