How Long Does It Take to Make a Handmade Wooden Figurine?

One of the most common questions customers ask is how long it takes to create a handmade wooden figurine. Unlike mass-produced items, each wooden figurine is shaped, refined, and finished by hand—making time a key part of its value.


It Depends on the Design

The time required to make a handmade wooden figurine varies based on:

  • size and complexity of the design

  • level of carved detail

  • wood type (such as black walnut, beech, or rosewood)

  • finishing and polishing process

Simple, minimalist figurines may take less time, while character-based or highly detailed pieces take significantly longer.


Typical Timeframe

On average, a single handmade wooden figurine takes several hours to multiple days to complete. More intricate designs often require carving over multiple sessions to ensure accuracy and prevent damage to the wood.

Because each piece is handcrafted, artisans work slowly and carefully—there are no shortcuts.


The Handmade Process

Creating a wooden figurine usually includes:

  1. selecting and preparing the hardwood

  2. rough shaping and carving

  3. detailed carving and refinement

  4. sanding and smoothing

  5. finishing and final inspection

Each step adds time, but also ensures quality and durability.


Why Handmade Takes Longer (and Why It’s Worth It)

Handmade figurines take longer because every detail is done by hand, not machines. This results in:

  • unique character in each piece

  • better durability

  • fine details that mass production can’t match

No two figurines are exactly the same.


Time Is Part of the Craft

The time invested in a handmade wooden figurine reflects craftsmanship, patience, and care. When you choose a handmade piece, you’re choosing quality over speed—and a figurine made to last.