I built this machine in 2013 as a valentine for my wife after we rescued two abandoned rabbits and discovered their charming behavior of softly chewing when they’re content- sort of like a bunny version of a cat’s purr. Unlike the more elaborate pieces that I film and set to music, this one just exists on its own merits. It doesn’t tell a story or a joke. When the “candy heart” crank is turned, the rabbit chews softly.

It is the first of what I call my “free-build” pieces – simpler machines that I don’t plan in advance but create spontaneously in the workshop. This piece is built primarily out of salvaged maple from a couple of home-remodeling projects, plus basswood for the rabbit head and ears. It is about 11 inches high.

I’ll upload a video soon.