The Magic of Wooden Toys: Handcrafted Heirlooms from Kringle Workshops
Kringle Workshops LLC brings the magic of wooden toys in Lake Elmo, MN, to life. Founder Tom Bethke, a lifelong woodworker and designer, handcrafts each piece using skills he learned from his father. These toys are more than playthings; they’re durable, beautifully made objects that invite imagination, hands-on play, and the possibility of becoming family heirlooms. The shop’s commitment to quality shines through in every sanded surface, turning grain and joinery into lasting memories.
The Magic of Wooden Toys in Lake Elmo, MN: Why They Matter
Wooden toys in Lake Elmo, MN, hold a special charm that plastic can’t match. The magic of wooden toys lies in their tactile warmth, simple mechanics, and timeless designs. They encourage open-ended play, spark creativity, and are built to stand up to years of play for generations. Kringle Workshops focuses on solid materials like pine and oak with birch wheels, creating toys that feel substantial in small hands and look charming on display.
Types of Toys Kringle Builds: Durable, Detailed, Delightful
Kringle Workshops offers a wide range of wooden toys, each designed for function and fun. Below are highlights of the handcrafted pieces available so families know what to expect.
Wooden Fire Truck
This large, impressive fire truck measures roughly 16″ long by 9″ tall and 6¼” wide. Tom builds it from pine and oak with birch wheels. The ladder raises, spins 360 degrees, and extends to reach higher floors. In 2024, Tom added a swivel bucket with a peg doll for extra play value. He sands every surface smooth and leaves the toy unfinished. Because of its size and small parts, the toy suits ages three and up.
Wooden Flatbed Tow Truck With Car
A new 2024 design, the flatbed tow truck includes a folding ramp and a separate hot rod car for loading and play. The truck is approximately 18″ long, 5¼” wide, and 8½” tall. Tom crafts it from pine and oak with birch wheels, delighting kids who love rescue and transport stories. Recommended for ages three and up.
Wooden Freight Train
This substantial wooden freight train stretches about 45″ in length with 7.5″ height and 6″ width. It features removable car tops for easy loading and includes three oak cargo blocks. Tom builds each piece from pine and oak with smooth-rolling birch wheels to create a classic, hands-on railroad experience. Recommended for ages three and up.
Wooden Garbage / Recycling Truck
This wooden truck inspires imaginative chores and eco-play. It measures roughly 18½” long, 6½” wide, and 9½” tall. The open back tilts to dump contents for tactile interaction. Tom constructs it from pine and oak with birch wheels, ensuring a sturdy toy ready for play. Recommended for ages three and up.
Wooden Log Truck
This robust 24½” long log truck carries recycled branches for a realistic look. Tom uses pine and oak with birch wheels to capture the charm of outdoor work in miniature. Recommended for ages three and up.
Wooden Monster Truck
This action-packed monster truck measures about 14″ long, 9″ tall, and 7½” wide at the wheels. Tom builds it from pine and oak, giving its rugged 4″ oak wheels the power for “car-crushin’” adventures. Recommended for ages three and up.
Wooden Pickup Truck With Horse Trailer
A new addition, this duo measures 24½” in total length. The trailer ramp pivots down for easy loading, and the interior measures roughly 3¾” wide by 4½” tall. Tom builds it from pine and oak with birch wheels. Recommended for ages three and up.
Wooden Racing Airplane
For future pilots, this sleek wooden racing airplane measures 19″ long with a 14.5″ wingspan and a spinning propeller. Tom constructs it from pine and oak with birch wheels, creating a toy ready for high-speed imaginative flight. Recommended for ages three and up.
The Magic of Wooden Toys: Built to Be Loved
At Kringle Workshops, the magic of wooden toys in Lake Elmo, MN, is evident in the attention to detail: smooth sanding, functioning moving parts, and thoughtful proportions. Toys are left unfinished to showcase natural wood and to allow families to personalize them with safe finishes if desired. The combination of sturdy materials and classic design means these toys aren’t disposable; they’re meant to be used, enjoyed, and passed along.
Ready to Experience The Magic of Wooden Toys in Lake Elmo, MN?
Bring home a handcrafted wooden toy from Kringle Workshops and discover why so many parents and gift-givers choose classic wooden playthings for lasting value. Whether shopping for birthdays, holidays, or just-because surprises, these toys make meaningful gifts that stand the test of time.Shop the magic of wooden toys at Kringle Workshops LLC today! Visit the Lake Elmo shop page or contact Tom for custom requests and special orders. Let a handcrafted wooden toy become the next treasured piece in your family story.
