Do's & Don'ts of Toy Making
Safety Tip & Helpful Hints


#1- Picking a Core
The core is the most important part of any toy, for both safety as well as durability
It is important to be familiar with how your birds play, in order to pick the proper toy or toy core.
Be sure to pick a core that is going to last longer than the fun stuff you tie on it.
For instance, if your bird loves to chew thru leather, then you would want to use leather on the toy but not use it as the core of the toy. Safety Tip- When making your own toys be certain that they connect to the cage without creating a noose. Many people prefer to hang toys from a strip of rope or leather, tied to the bars instead of quick links. If you choose to use this approach, please tie the toy up against the bars, taking up all the slack in the ties, as not to leave a noose that your birds head could get caught in and strangle.
#2- Tying The Knots
There are several ways to tie the knots that hold on the fun stuff. Safety Tip- All knots need to be tied very secure in order to avoid a loop that a foot may become entangled in. Keep in mind that many birds get their greatest joy from untying knots & watching everything fall to the ground. If your bird fits this description, be sure to leave some knots for this purpose.
If you want your knots to be more of a challenge you might try these things;
A-wet leather before tying (don't soak it) be sure it dries thoroughly to avoid mold,  B- double knot,  C- for fiber ropes you can use a dab of white glue before you pull the knot tight,  D- For Paulie rope, try burning the knots
#3- Lengths of cords
Safety Tip- All rope & cords can be dangerous. It is important to use enough knots to keep any cords short enough that they cannot wrap around your birds neck & strangle them. The thinner the cord, the shorter it needs to be. Also, fiber ropes such as cotton, become easily frayed which can lead to a bird becoming entangled. Keep all ropes trimmed. Always watch your birds around toys!
 

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