Supplies:
- 1inx2.6inch popsicle sticks (or any mini craft sticks)
- Skate bearings
- M10 flat washers
- Clothes pins
- Markers
- Scissors
Directions:
Step 1: Take 2 of the popsicle sticks and cut them in half (we use 3 per spinner)
Step 2: Decorate halves with markers or other desired materials
Step 3: Glue the 3 stick halves together into a triangle shape
Step 4: Before the glue dries, place a skate bearing in the inside of the triangle
Step 5: Using a clothespin, secure the sticks until fully dried
Step 6: Add some extra glue in the middle of the sticks to secure the bearing
Step 7: After letting them spin when dried, give them 3 M10 washers to place on each corner, and let dry
Design complete!
Learning Benefits
Makers will learn how to make custom fidget spinners to help experiment with momentum and use creativity to make each a unique design. With the use of ball bearings, it will reduce friction to help with spin speed and time spent spinning. Students can additionally find the average spin time and use tools like a graph to show their data.
Fidget spinners have benefits when used to help with safe sensory play and can help kids have fun while using a familiar item.
Maker Fun Fact!
The first patent filed for a spinning toy was back in 1993! It took a few tries and producing it by hand before it caught on with big production.