How to Build an Hourglass
Hourglasses were the first accurate way to measure time without the aid of the sun. Water was also used in devices very similar to hourglasses, but water was subject to freezing when temperatures were low. Hourglasses are still used today as egg timers and in some games.
Things You'll Need
- Wooden block 1 canning lid (or wire mesh) Tin punch Hammer 2 clean, dry mason jars 2 brass canning rings Fine sand Hot glue gun Watch with a second hand
Instructions
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How to Build an Hour Glass
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1
Set the wooden block on a flat, stable surface. Place the lid on top of the block. Use the punch and hammer to punch holes in the lid. Make sure the holes are large enough to allow the sand to pass through.
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2
Fill one of the mason jars with sand.
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3
Place the punched lid on top of the mason jar containing the sand and secure it with a brass ring.
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4
Screw the second brass ring onto the top of the empty mason jar. Do not put a lid on this jar; use only the brass ring.
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5
Use the hot glue gun to place a bead of glue around the brass ring of the jar filled with sand.
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6
Place the empty jar upside down on top of the glue. Be sure to line the jars up so that the brass rings are together and the lid with the holes punched in it is completely covered by the empty jar.
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7
When the glue is set, turn the hourglass over and check for leaks. If you find any, fill them with more hot glue.
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8
Now that your hourglass is complete, grab your watch. Time how long it takes all of the sand to run from one end of the hourglass to the other. Now you can use your hourglass to keep track of time.
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1
Tips & Warnings
You may substitute screening for the punched lid in this project. Make sure the screen has a very fine mesh. Then place the mesh over the top of the jar and secure the brass ring over it.
