How to Make a Pinwheel (Children's Craft)

This fun summer craft is great to make on a rainy day. On a windy day, it is even more fun to play with outside.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 8.5 in. x 8.5 in. piece of poster board
• 1 floral wire stem - 20 gauge
• Plastic beads
• Wire cutters
• Scissors

1. 

   Cut poster board in a square measuring 8.5 inches x 8.5 inches. Using a ruler draw a line from one corner to the opposite bottom corner. Then draw another line from the other corner to the opposite bottom corner. An “X” will form in the center of the square.

2. From the center of the square measure 2 inches up on each line and mark. Using scissors cut each line to the 2 inch mark.

3. 

   Using a needle pierce the center of the square at the “X” mark. Then pierce the right corner of all four of the triangles.

4. 

   Take the floral stem and bend it down 90 degrees at approximately the 4 inch mark. Place two beads onto the bent end. Insert the stem into the center of the square. Then bend each triangle (right corner) down to the center through the stem. Place two beads on top of the pinwheel to help it hold its shape. Bend the
   floral stem wire into a loop to hold everything together.

5. 

   From the bottom of the floral stem begin to slide beads up to the top of the wire (stopping at the bend). Once the floral stem is beaded, loop the bottom of the wire.

6. 

   Have fun with the pinwheel. Let children color on the poster board or attach stickers.

Tips & Warnings

• I tried using construction paper and foam sheets. The only thing that seemed to work was poster board paper. It didn’t tear when pierced and seemed to spin the most easily.
• Floral stem wire can be found at any major craft store. They are usually sold 12 to a pack and range in price from $2 to $3 dollars.

Resources

• Make a Festive 4th of July Decoration

[dianatudor]

on 8/26/2008 Great idea for kids. I just checked your blog and i found lots of great ideas. Congrats!