STEAMwork | design + build
spool racers
let's get started!
Repurpose old spools and engineering them into lean, mean, racing machines! Test out different types of spools and tensions see what works best. 🏁
materials
spools of any and all shapes and sizes
rubbers bands
toothpicks
unsharpened pencils
tape of any kind
washer or a nut, a bead, or the tab off of a drink can
additional resources
- written instructions on how to build a spool racer from PBS Kids
- a spool racer design worksheet from TeachEngineering at the University of Colorado Boulder to adapt and log changes to your spool racer design
more STEAM learning
podcast
STEAM Daydream with National Children's Museum, a podcast that elevates children’s voices and answers their biggest questions.