If you are a parent and haven't been hiding under a rock somewhere, you've probably heard about the latest craze, fidget spinners. A great way to keep a kid occupied for hours AND it never runs out of batteries. Sure you can buy one for $5-10 and up, but I wanted to make one with a little more meaning. So I decided to make one by hand, out of oak. As a disclaimer, this fidget spinner is probably not nearly as durable as the plastic ones, and if it gets dropped on the thin part I'm sure there is a chance it could break along the grain. Nevertheless, it's still a cool and easy project to make.
Download and print of the template provided above and adhere it to the 1/4" hardwood using spray adhesive.
Drill a pilot hole through the center of where each hole will be.
Using a 7/8" forstner bit, drill about half way through the board at each hole location. Then flip the board over and complete the hole drilling.
Using the scroll saw cut out the profile of the spinner. Get as close to the line as you can without going inside.
Sand the profile of the spinner smooth and round over any harsh edges. The bearings should be a snug fit in the holes. If they have too tight of a fit then use some sandpaper to open them up ever so slightly so.
Stain and seal to your liking.
Adhere the bearings in place using a thin, quick setting glue. Let dry and enjoy!
If you are a parent and haven't been hiding under a rock somewhere, you've probably heard about the latest craze, fidget spinners. A great way to keep a kid occupied for hours AND it never runs out of batteries. Sure you can buy one for $5-10 and up, but I wanted to make one with a little more meaning. So I decided to make one by hand, out of oak. As a disclaimer, this fidget spinner is probably not nearly as durable as the plastic ones, and if it gets dropped on the thin part I'm sure there is a chance it could break along the grain. Nevertheless, it's still a cool and easy project to make.
Download and print of the template provided above and adhere it to the 1/4" hardwood using spray adhesive.
Drill a pilot hole through the center of where each hole will be.
Using a 7/8" forstner bit, drill about half way through the board at each hole location. Then flip the board over and complete the hole drilling.
Using the scroll saw cut out the profile of the spinner. Get as close to the line as you can without going inside.
Sand the profile of the spinner smooth and round over any harsh edges. The bearings should be a snug fit in the holes. If they have too tight of a fit then use some sandpaper to open them up ever so slightly so.
Stain and seal to your liking.
Adhere the bearings in place using a thin, quick setting glue. Let dry and enjoy!
