How to Make a 3D Windmill Out of Paper

Finished windmill

Windmills are an interesting combination of beauty and function. Kids will enjoy creating a three dimensional windmill with moving parts out of card stock and construction paper. This craft provides a way to welcome spring, or can be used to augment a discussion of the value of wind power.

Things You'll Need

• Two 9-inch by 12-inch pieces of construction paper
• Four 6 1/2-inch by 1-inch strips of card stock
• Pipe cleaner, cut in half
• Markers or crayons (optional)
• Scissors
• Stapler
• Masking tape
• Penny

Instructions

1. 

   Roll one sheet of construction paper into a cone shape and staple to secure at the top and the bottom. Trim the bottom so that the cone sits evenly.

2. 

   Fold one piece of construction paper repeatedly until a 12-inch by 1-inch strip is created. Attach the strip to the inner back of the windmill with a staple.

3. 

   Attach the top of the strip to the top front edge of the windmill. By spanning front to back inside of the windmill, this strip will add stability.

4. 

   Poke holes in the top of each card stock strip with scissors, about 1/2-inch from the edge. Poke a corresponding hole in the construction paper strip that is sticking out of the top of the windmill. Connect the windmill blades to the windmill by pushing the pipe cleaner through the holes. Fold edges of pipe cleaner front and back to secure. Move blades to the correct position and staple.

5. 

   Add decorative touches with markers or crayons, as desired.

6. 

   Tape a penny to the bottom of the windmill with masking tape. This provides extra bottom weight and will help the windmill to stand erect when blades are spun.

Tips & Warnings

• Stickers and glitter can add extra decorative touches.

• Only older children should use sharp scissors to poke holes in card stock. An adult should be on hand to help younger children.

Resources

• Information on Windmills