How They’re Made

Made by hand, start to finish.

Every Heartwood & Helm piece is made in small batches with an intentionally simple process that keeps the warmth and character of the wood at the center.

1. Shaped from wood

Each design is transferred to poplar and cut by hand. The form is refined slowly so the silhouette feels recognizable while still leaving room for imaginative play.

2. Sanded and softened

Edges and surfaces are sanded and rounded by hand for a smooth, tactile feel. We keep the natural grain visible rather than hiding it beneath an opaque finish.

3. Painted by hand

Color is applied with non-toxic German Angora watercolors. The translucent paint lets variations in the wood show through, so no two finished pieces are exactly alike.

4. Finished naturally

Each piece is sealed with jojoba oil and beeswax, enriching the grain and giving the wood a warm, soft luster.

5. Final inspection

Before a piece leaves the workshop, it is checked by hand for finish, feel, and character. Small variations are part of what makes each handmade toy unique.