Building a play farm: Schleich, Bruder, Britains
A play farm is made up of vehicles, animals, buildings and farmers. Here is how to combine brands without the proportions going wrong.
What belongs on a play farm?
A farm has four kinds of things: vehicles and implements, animals, buildings and figures such as the farmer. If you buy everything from one brand, it is most likely to fit together.
Combining is fine too, as long as you watch the proportions.
The scale of the vehicles first
Bruder makes its Profi series at 1:16, Britains and Siku offer 1:32. Choose one scale for the tractors and trailers, because couplings and proportions only match within the same scale. See the scale guide for the dimensions.
Animals from Schleich, Bruder and Britains
Schleich Farm World is known for its horses, cows and pigs: 128 of the 139 Schleich articles in our catalogue carry 3+. Bruder makes its own animals and farmers at 1:16.
Animals and figures are toys, not scale models. Check the dimensions on the product page and compare them with your tractor.
Buildings and stables
Stables and barns are often the biggest item. Check the dimensions of buildings: a stable that is too small for the animals is frustrating to play with.
Building up step by step
Start with a tractor and a trailer, then add a few animals and after that a building or implement. That way you learn what the child likes to play with before you buy more. On FarmToyDeals, filter by age or gift budget.
Compare each item by article number, so you do not buy the same thing twice.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Schleich animals with Bruder vehicles?
Yes, for play. Schleich animals are toys, not scale models, so the proportions are not exact. Compare the dimensions on the product page.
Which scale is best for a play farm?
For outdoors and young children, 1:16 (Bruder) is sturdy. For a farm indoors, 1:32 (Siku, Britains) is popular. Choose one scale for the vehicles.
Where do I start with a play farm?
With a tractor, a trailer and a few animals. Then build up on what the child likes to play with, and compare by article number.
Keep browsing
FarmToyDeals does not sell or test anything itself. This guide lists what manufacturers state. Always check the age label on the packaging.
More guides
- Which scale to choose: 1:16, 1:32, 1:50 or 1:87 The box says 1:32 or 1:16, but what does that mean for the toy you are buying? Here is how to work it out and how to pick the scale that suits you. Read the guide
- Bruder or Siku: the differences Bruder and Siku are the two best-known names in toy tractors, but they differ in scale and size. Here are the differences and how to choose. Read the guide
- Farm toys by age: from toddler to collector Which farm toys suit which age? We list the manufacturers' age labels side by side, from toddler to collector. Read the guide
