With just a few simple supplies, we transformed an ordinary mailing tube into a mesmerizing kaleidoscope! Learn how to make your own DIY kaleidoscope here.
Fun Craft For Kids: A Colorful Kaleidoscope
Kaleidoscopes are a great way to explore light and symmetry! This DIY kaleidoscope for kids is the perfect craft to learn how light can bounce off different surfaces.
Your DIY Kaleidoscope Shopping List
- 9” x 2” Mailing Tube
- Metallic Poster Board
- Turquoise Corrugated Paper
- Sandy Washi Tape (Pink and Purple)
- Large Grain Multicolored Hexagon Glitter
- Box Cutter
- Glue Gun & Glue Sticks
- Two Piece Stationery Box
- Clear Cello Tape
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Hole Punch
- Pencil
FYI: Looking for the supplies you’ll need to make this craft? We’ve got you covered. Shop wired ribbon, hot glue, and more at PaperMart.com.
Here’s How You Can Make Your Own DIY Kaleidoscope
1.) First, create your mirrored triangle prism. Lay your metallic poster board flat with the metallic side facing down. Use your ruler and box cutter to create score lines along the poster board. Make sure your score lines are evenly spaced apart. Once scored, fold into a prism shape with the metallic surface facing inward. Secure with tape.
2.) Next, construct the interior of your kaleidoscope. Simply insert your prism into the center of your mailing tube. Use small dots of hot glue along the prism edge to help keep your interior stable.
3.) After your interior is made, use your scissors and plastic boxes to cut out two plastic circles.
Note: Circle diameters will depend on your mailing tube. We used a mailing tube with a 2” diameter. Our first circle has a 2” diameter while our second circle has a slightly smaller diameter so it will next comfortably inside.
4.) After your two circles are created, use them to create a colorful end piece. Secure your smaller circle to the inner edge of your mailing tube. Place glitter on top and then glue the larger circle to the outer edge of your mailing tube.
5.) Next, attach your spinner to the body of your mailing tube. Simply take your corrugated paper, loosely wrap it around your mailing tube, and seal the edges together with a strip of clear cello tape.
6.) After the body of your mailing tube is made, create your kaleidoscope eyepiece. Cut a circle from your poster board and use your hole punch to punch a tiny hole in the center. Attach it to the open end of your tube using hot glue.
Note: Our eyepiece circle is 2” in diameter.
7.) Next, add your finishing touches. Decorate your kaleidoscope using your rolls of washi tape.
8.) Finally, enjoy your handiwork. Impress your friends and family with your DIY kaleidoscope. This is a perfect summer craft for kids.
We decorated our kaleidoscope with our favorite bold colors and metallic washi tape details. Colored paper and washi tape are available in a variety of different shades and finishes! For your kaleidoscope, feel free to let your creative juices flow by mixing and matching different colors and finishes. If you’re looking for more craft ideas for kids, check out our 3 Kid-Friendly Crafts here! If you’re looking forward to more DIYs and How-To’s, stay tuned! We’ll be making more DIY videos, tips for small businesses, and product features all year long. Sign up for our email list here to stay in the know!
Wow!i love it!