A whirligig is a device with several fanning blades which can be placed in a wind current in order to create a spinning effect. A simple whirligig project can be completed by cutting a pair of empty soda cans to create both the body and the blades of the whirligig. This is a simple craft, though one which should only be completed by an adult, as the edges of cut cans can be sharp.
Things You'll Need:
- Nut
- 2 Empty Soda Cans
- Bolt
- Metal Shears
- Awl
- Super Glue
Poke a hole in the bottom of one of the empty soda cans with the awl.
Cut the top off of the same soda can with the shears just below where the can first reaches its full width.
Cut into the can with a vertical cut from the cut off edge to the bottom of the can, where the can starts to narrow at its base.
Repeat the cut from Step 3 to create six to eight strips, to your own aesthetic preference.
Fold the strips out at a ninety degree angle from the bottom of the can.
Twist each strip about thirty degrees counterclockwise.
Place the fanned can on the bolt by sliding the bolt through the hole in the bottom of the can until the fanned can is at the top of the bolt.
Tighten the nut around the bolt until it is near the can at the top of the bolt. Don't fully tighten the nut, or it will secure the can in place, preventing it from spinning. You want the bolt as close to the can as possible without touching it.
Apply super glue to the bottom of the bolt, and secure it to the bottom of the second can.
Let the glue dry completely.
Hold your whirligig up in the wind to watch it spin.
Tip
You can attach the second can to a large stake with the super glue to create a stand to allow the whirligig to be planted in your yard.
Warnings:
- Be careful when making the cuts, as well as careful with the edges of the cut can, as they can potentially be sharp and slice you if handled carelessly.
