What You'll Need

Translucent colored A4 paper (2–3 sheets)
Scissors, ruler, pencil
3D-printed button (fits over central stem)
3D-printed L-bracket & stem piece
Wooden dowel (or thick straw)
Double-sided tape or quick-set glue
(Optional) Small wooden bead or embellishments

Safety First!

!Handle scissors and small 3D parts under adult supervision.
!Keep the stem piece and button out of reach of toddlers.
!Work on a stable, clutter-free surface to avoid losing tiny parts.

Let's Make It! Step-by-Step Guide

Cut a 21×21 cm Square

Step 1 of 6

Measure and mark a perfect square on your A4 sheet.
Cut along the lines with clean, even strokes.

The Science Behind It

As air flows over each blade, it exerts a force that creates torque around the central stem—transforming wind’s kinetic energy into rotational motion. The translucent paper’s lightweight nature ensures even a gentle breeze will set the pinwheel turning, while the 3D-printed bracket minimizes friction for silky-smooth spin.

Helpful Tips

Use 120–160 gsm paper: thin enough to catch the breeze, thick enough to hold shape.
Ensure the center hole is just large enough for the stem—too tight and it won’t spin; too loose and it wobbles.
Angle each blade at ~30° to optimize lift from the wind.
If outdoors, choose a sturdy dowel or bamboo skewer to withstand gusts.

Try These Variations!

1Alternate Sizes: 15×15 cm or 25×25 cm squares for faster or slower spin.
2Weighted Blades: Glue a tiny bead at one side of each blade to study asymmetrical balance.
3Glow Pinwheel: Attach a micro-LED inside the button for nighttime illumination or create an Micro:Bit project to measure the speed.
4Pattern Play: Combine two contrasting translucent sheets for a kaleidoscopic effect when spinning.

Easy Pinwheel Design for Kids