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How to Make a Yo-Yo Out of Plates

Variations on the yo-yo have amused children and adults since ancient times. The toy, a set of discs attached to a string, created a craze in early 20th century America when Filipino entrepreneur Pedro Flores began manufacturing yo-yos in California. Although plenty of other manufacturers make relatively cheap yo-yos, you can emulate Flores' entrepreneurial spirit by making your own yo-yo out of plates, a toilet paper roll and some string.

Things You'll Need

  • Toilet paper roll
  • Two paper plates
  • String
  • Scissors
  • Marker
  • Pin
  • A marble or a few pennies taped together
  • Glue
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut a 1 1/2-inch segment off the end of the paper towel roll. This will be the yo-yo's axle.

    • 2

      Cut the axle to create two 3/8-inch deep slots on each end of the axle so that the axle now has two 1 1/2-inch tabs that will insert into the paper plates.

    • 3

      Position the axle at the center of a paper plate. With the marker, draw two arcs where the tabs touch the plate. Repeat this process on the other paper plate.

    • 4

      Cut each paper plate to create slots on the markings where the tabs were touching the plates.

    • 5

      Using the pin, punch a hole at the midpoint of the axle. Thread the string through the hole, then tie a knot at the end of the string to fasten the string in place.

    • 6

      Insert the axle's slots into the tabs on one of the plates. Apply glue to reinforce the connection.

    • 7

      Insert the marble or the taped-together coins inside the axle to add mass to the center of the yo-yo.

    • 8

      Insert the tabs on the other end of the axle into the paper plate. Apply glue to reinforce the connection.

    • 9

      Tie a slip knot at the end of the string that's not attached to the axle. Slip the string around your middle finger, wind up the yo-yo and begin practicing. The yo-yo will not "rest" but can still make an up and down motion, offering good practice for beginners.


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