How to Make Kaleidoscopes

Kaleidoscopes are interesting things to many children as well as adults. It is fascinating how the designs change when you twist the kaleidoscope around. No two designs will be the same. Making a kaleidoscope can be an activity that you can do with your child, while teaching them the scientific benefits of light refraction. All you need is some basic craft supplies and a little creativity. You can find a large assortment of craft supplies at your local hobby store, or you can purchase what you need online.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper towel tube Scotch tape Scissors Art utility knife Markers Plastic wrap Wax paper Clear paper protector sleeve Rubber band Black construction paper Permanent marker (fine point) Ruler Stickers, wrapping paper, foam shapes (anything for decorating) Colored see-through beads Sequins Foil-type confetti

1. Measure and cut your paper towel tube 8 inches long.

2. Measure and cut your construction paper, plastic wrap and wax paper to 4-inch squares (you will need one for each).

3. Measure an 8-x-4-inch rectangle on the protective sleeve, using the permanent marker to make the outline for your cut.

4. Draw three lines across the long side of the sleeve: one at 1¼ inches from the top, one at 1¼ inches from the first line, and one at ¼ inches from the second line. Fold the sleeve along these lines, using the handles of the scissors to crease if needed, and ensure that the ¼ inch piece is on the outside.

5. Tape the triangle that you have made along the small strip to close it.

6. Place the sleeve triangle into the inside of the paper towel tube.

7. Stand the tube up on one end and sit it on the black construction paper square and trace the circle end.

8. Poke a hole in the center of the construction paper and tape it over an end of the tube.

9. Add the square of plastic wrap on the opposite end of the tube, pressing it in to the end of the triangle slightly to form a pouch.

10. Add your beads, sequins and confetti into the pouch and cover it with the wax paper square.

11. Stretch a rubber band tightly over the wax paper square making sure there is enough of the plastic wrap square hanging out so the rubber band will hold it to.

12. Trim the squares (all 3) so that they are rounded.

13. Decorate the outside of the tube in any way you want, using any kinds of materials. Be creative. Perhaps color the tube or tape construction paper on it.

References

• Make Kaleidoscopes
• Craft Supplies