Home >> Toys >> Toy Vehicles

How to Make a Balloon Racer Car

Balloon racers can be as simple as attaching a balloon to a toy metal car, building an original Lego design, or cutting a car out of cardboard. Once you start designing balloon racers, it may be difficult to stop. Try holding races with a friend, or compete against yourself while perfecting your designs.

Things You'll Need

Tissue box or other small cardboard box
2 straws
2 to 4 wooden skewers
4 drink lids or other "wheels"
Duct tape
Glue, optional
Balloon

Instructions

- 1
  Attach two wooden skewers together with a small piece of duct tape. This will make the skewers long enough to go through the straw and have room to spare on each side.
- 2
  Cut the box in half lengthwise; use the other half to create a second car if desired. Poke four holes for the axles to run through. Place them evenly on each side. Thread the skewers through these holes and attach a wheel to each side.
  Either poke the skewer through the wheel and hold in place with a piece of duct tape, or simply glue them in place.
- 3
  Cut a hole in the center front of the car. This will be for the balloon nozzle. Choose a heavy-weight balloon, such as one designed for helium. Blow up the balloon several times to stretch it. Attach 1/3 of a straw into the mouth of the balloon. Place the balloon nozzle through the hole in the car and secure it in place with duct tape.
- 4
  Blow up the balloon and hold until ready to test the car. Let it go, and watch the racer go. Adjust the wheels or body as necessary until your car performs the way you want it to.

Toy Vehicles