Make your own DIY Wind Up Toys (Walking Modeling Clay Monsters): Cute, handmade monsters that wind up and walk!
Who doesn’t love wind up toys? The satisfying clicking noise of the winding mechanism, the thrilling action of the toy’s tiny movements, it’s a certifiable hoot. This super simple and open ended project allows kids to make their own DIY wind up toys. Kids will love seeing their creations walk and waddle around the room.
This project was a big hit with the kids at Figment Creative Labs. We tried it for the first time with a group of kids aged 5-10, and they loved it. I suspect that this project would be great for an older crowd as well. In fact, I had such fun making my own demo DIY wind up toy that I could even see this being a fun project for adults.
DIY Wind Up Toys (Walking Modeling Clay Monsters)
You’ll need:
- Modeling Clay
- Blank DIY Wind Up Toys
- Google Eyes, Pipe Cleaners, Feathers, Toothpicks, or other decorative doo-dads
To Make:
Simply give your child a block or two of modeling clay and one of the blank DIY Wind Up Toys and let them have at it. Kids should be encouraged to cover as much of the blank as possible while making sure to leave the windup and feet mechanisms clear. Adding details with tiny items, such as google eyes or toothpicks, can make the project even better. Simply stick the items into the clay to attach. Modeling clay is super sticky and can be re-sculpted as needed.
This blog post was made in collaboration with Figment Creative Labs, a local arts and stem studio for kids in Austin, Texas. I work there part-time as a creative guide, sharing my love of art, science, and maker skills with kids.
