As you may have read in this week’s newsletter every year it is tradition that Mr Wolf deigns and builds something for his children. Generally he will use some kind of raw timber or ply and all of the work is completed by hand.  His most recent creation was the second Wolf ark which was designed specifically to house the children’s impressive collection of Schleich animal figurines. The original Wolf ark was built when the children were much smaller and since then they and their collection of animals have grown. The new and improved ark is not only larger but features circular patterns down each side similar to that of the windows in the children’s bedrooms. To build your very own ark you can follow the steps below.

Step One: Cut
What you will need: Unfinished ply-wood sheets, methylated spirits, measuring tools, pencil and jigsaw.
The first thing you will need to do is determine the size of what you want to build, this will give you an idea of how many sheets of ply you will need. You can then stencil out the each panel, you will need a base, two long side panels and two short end panels. Once you have drawn out the shapes, use your jigsaw to neatly cut out each shape. Mr Wolf then used methylated spirits to gently wipe off any dirt or marks left on the pieces.
Step Two: Decorate
What you will need: Pencil, stencil and cutting tool.
Now that you have all the pieces cut out, use a stencil to mark the patterns down both of the long side panels. Mr Wolf used a circular pattern but you can create any pattern you like. Once you are happy with the pattern you are ready to cut them out.
Step Three: Preparation for fixing
What you will need: Sand paper and sanding block.
Lay your pieces out together ensure all pieces fit together nicely, if they don’t you may need to adjust them to fit. Use your sanding block and sand paper to smooth the edges and surface of each piece as necessary ensuring there are no rough areas remaining.
Step Four: Assembly 
What you will need: PVA glue suitable for wood, hammer and nails.
Assemble your ark section by section securing with PVA glue, then you can use the nails as secondary method of fixing ensuring all joins are sturdy.
Step Five: Preparation for finishing
What you will need: Sand paper and methylated spirits.
To prepare the ark for finishing you will need to inspect each surface and all edges, use your sand paper to smooth as necessary. You can then give the ark a quick wipe with a small amount of methylated spirits to ensure all faces are clean.
Step Six: Finishing
What you will need: Water based clear lacquer and paint brush.
After ensuring each panel is clean you are now ready to finish the ark. Section by section apply a thin layer of lacquer using your paint brush, allow to dry before turning over. Repeat if necessary.
Step Seven: Enjoy!