Pinwheel That Works
It’s summer, it’s hot, and the kiddos are getting bored.
To help you out in the best way I can I’m sharing summer project ideas that are quick, fun, creative and easy enough for youngsters with a little supervision.
Since I’m adoring all the pinwheels on Pinterest I thought this would be a fun project…
only I wanted the pinwheel to work.
Not just look awesome.
How to make a pinwheel that works. There is a download link at the bottom of this post with instructions and printables for the mattress ticking.
I started by taking pictures of mattress ticking material from my stash. I uploaded the pictures to my computer and cropped them to a square.
Then I played with the square. Cutting adding holes of different sizes. Then trying thumbtacks, nails, and screws on paint sticks, pencils, and a wooden dowel until I got the basic steps…
and how to get a pinwheel that works!
Here’s it is in action! I used my blow dryer on low for the video. It works by flinging your arms around too! But I frightened the pups! I’m simply too old to run up and down the street with my pinwheel…and…that would frighten the neighbors!
Here are the two things I think help a pinwheel turn. Adding something between the stick and the pinwheel like a washer. Plus having holes large enough for the pinwheel to actually turn.
I adore this project. 🙂 I have plans for more with different patterns colors and for different holidays. Let me know your thoughts on this project in comments below. I love hearing from readers!
Click to download with printable mattress ticking and pinwheel instructions.
Click to see the first project for the Summer Project Ideas series.
i wish my grands were a little older to make these right now one would eat it and the other would take it apart…… i would pay good money to see you run up and down the street with a pin wheel lmbo xx
Chris…my neighbors would pay to NOT see me running up and down the street! Have a fun 4th. Jeanette
I saw a pillow with Ohio on it. I am from Ohio are you?
Actually Carol I’m from Oklahoma. I think the pillow you saw was from another DIY blogger. We love sharing our projects on each others website. I actually grew up in “Osage County” but my family was nothing like the movie. I have spend time in Ohio and LOVED it. Have a wonderful 4th. Jeanette
Cute idea!
Thank you Tammy! Enjoy your 4th. Jeanette
So cute Jeannette! Going to try to pull this together today for my two nieces that will be here tomorrow for the 4th. And I absolutely LOVE your idea of taking pictures of fabric to create the paper design! Having a “why didn’t I think of that” moment!!
Caroline, it’s really scary when you find yourself taking pictures of wood or scanning it into your computer! Have a great 4th. Jeanette