We have added the British 1920′s Toy Book - ”Things to Make” by Archibald Williams, to the web-site. It contains illustrated instructions on making toys and household items from the period.
Many of the toy models are classics that are eagerly sought by collectors today and will provide hours of enjoyment if you have the patience, skills and equipment required to construct them.
The book was published just before mass produced toys became available when hand-made were king. Todays children,and even many adults, could be challenged by the degree of difficulty involved in some projects. It illustrates that most of us don’t have the same skill sets as our ancestors.
It is still possible to buy modern versions of these toys and assemble them yourself, but 80 years ago you needed to be able to manufacture the parts as well.
It’s an interesting book and a great snapshot of the past.