How to Make a Wood Ping Pong Shooter

Cut a 2-inch-long slit in the toilet paper roll with scissors, starting at the edge. Cut three more slits the same length, evenly spaced around the roll. This forms four tabs.

Fold down two of the tabs that are across from each other, slide the rubber band underneath and tape the tabs down, so the rubber band is secured in place.

Measure 1 inch down the side of the roll, starting at the center of one of the folded edges, and poke a hole there with an awl. If you don't have an awl, use the tip of the scissors. Increase the size of the hole until it is large enough for the dowel to fit in. Make another identical hole directly across from it on the other side of the roll.

Tape the cigar box closed. The side with the lid is the front of the launcher with the wider ends at the top and bottom. Measure 3 inches down from the center top of one of the sides and poke a hole in the box with the awl or scissors. Most cigar boxes are made out of soft enough wood that you should be able to make the hole without a drill. Enlarge the hole until it is large enough to slide the 1/4-inch dowel through it. Repeat on the other side of the box and pull the dowel through both holes.

Cut a 1-inch piece of the drinking straw with the scissors and slide it over the part of the dowel that is sticking out on the right side of the box.

Turn the box around so you are looking at the back. Slide the toilet paper roll onto the dowel, through the holes you poked in it previously, until it is next to the piece of drinking straw.

Pull the rubber band taut from the toilet paper roll to the bottom right corner of the back of the box and tape it in place.

Place a ping pong ball in the top of the toilet paper roll, pull it back and let go to shoot the ball across the room.