Build your own high-speed spinning top using recycled cardboard. You'll learn about balance and centrifugal force while creating a colorful toy that spins for a long time!

Tools

• scissors
• ruler
• compass or circular object for tracing
• pencil
• wooden toothpick or bamboo skewer (1 piece)
• white glue or hot glue (2 oz)
• markers or acrylic paint (1 set)

Materials

• corrugated cardboard (1 square foot)
• bottle cap (1 plastic cap)

Safety

• Adult supervision required when using scissors.
• Be careful with the sharp point of the toothpick or skewer.
• If using a hot glue gun, adult supervision is mandatory to prevent burns.
• Adult supervision required for hot materials. Burn risk.
• Adult supervision required for sharp objects.
• Protect work surface. Materials may stain clothing.
• Adult supervision required for children under 8.

Steps

1. Use a compass or a circular object (like a glass) to trace two circles onto the cardboard, each 3 inches in diameter.
2. Carefully cut out both cardboard circles using scissors.
3. Find the exact center of both circles using a ruler and mark it with a small dot.
4. Decorate the top circle with colorful markers or paint. Tip: Create spiral patterns or contrasting colors to make a cool effect when it spins.
5. Glue the two cardboard circles together, sandwiching the bottle cap in the center so the open side of the cap faces upward.
6. Poke a small hole through the center of the cardboard and the bottle cap using the tip of the toothpick or skewer.
7. Insert the toothpick or skewer through the hole. Ensure it is perfectly vertical and centered to keep the top balanced.
8. Apply a generous amount of glue around the toothpick where it meets the cardboard to secure it firmly in place.
9. Trim the top of the toothpick so it is about 1 inch above the cardboard, leaving a 'handle' for your fingers.
10. Let the glue dry completely for 15-30 minutes.
11. Hold the top of the toothpick and flick your wrist to make your powerful cardboard top spin!