I’ve long wanted to figure out how to engineer a pinwheel, so I finally had to roll up my sleeves and just do it! This is pretty easy, uses supplies from around the house, and is one moms and kiddies will enjoy. It’s a great Fourth of July project, but you could make these pinwheels any time for good, old-fashioned summer fun.
First off, here’s a print-and-cut pattern. Size it to whatever you want. Mine is only about 5-inches wide.
Cut your star following the template. Make sure you leave the dashed lines uncut. These will become the blades of the star. Punch or cut a small hole in the center of the star. Place adhesive around the center hole. Loop the blades into the center and stick down.
Step 2: Poke hole in middle of paper circle and use adhesive to apply it to center of star. This helps to hold all of the blades in place.
Step 3: Thread wire through button, then place on top of hole in center of the star. The wire will be what allows the star to spin.
Step 4: On the back of the star, thread the bead on the wire, then add the second button. The bead keeps a space between the stick and the star, allowing it to move freely. Twist wire to keep button/bead in place. Then wrap wire around the stick and tape down ends.
At this point, you are done! But you may want to decorate with ribbon or trim and a shape for the center of the star. I used a small chipboard star for mine. It’s not only a toy, but can also double as decor. Mine is being stored in a planter next to some flowers. It spins gently with the breeze. Very nice!
Enjoy.