I’ve long wanted to figure out how to engineer a pinwheel so when I was invited to be a guest poster over at FaveCrafts.com, I just had to roll up my sleeves. This one is pretty easy, using supplies from around the house, and one the kiddies will enjoy, too. It would be great for the 4th of July or just for summer fun. It’s so easy, in fact, that I’m not even making digital files. This is a straightforward print and cut job!

First off, here’s the print and cut. Size it to whatever you want. Mine is only about 5″ wide.

Then gather these supplies:

• Paper
• Scissors
• Adhesive
• 2 buttons
• 3″ thin wire
• Large plastic bead
• Stick
• Tape
• Ribbon (optional)
• Shape for decoration (optional)
• Brad (optional)

Step 1:

Cut your star following the template. Made sure you leave the dashed lines uncut. These will become the blades of the star. Punch or cut a small hole in the center of the star. Place adhesive around the center hole. Loop the blades into the center and stick down.

Step 2:

Poke hole in middle of paper circle and use adhesive to apply it to center of star. This helps to hold all of the blades in place.

Step 3:

Thread wire through button and then place on top of hole in center of the star. The wire will be what allows the star to spin.

Step 4:

On the back of the star, thread the bead on the wire and then add the second button. The bead keeps a space between the stick and the star allowing it to move freely. Twist wire to keep button/bead in place. Then wrap wire around the stick and tape down ends.

At this point, you are done but may want to decorate with ribbon or trim and a shape for the center of the star. I used a small chipboard star for mine. It’s not only a toy, but can also double as decor. Mine is being stored in a planter next to some flowers. It spins gently with the breeze. Very nice!

Enjoy.