How to Make Colonial Toys Such As a Whirligig

Using the paper and a marker, draw the design for your whirligig. Trace a shape using a cookie cutter design such as a circle, gingerbread man or flower. Cut it out.

Using the template you created, trace the design on the cardboard or wood. Use the scissors or knife to cut the design. This is the whirligig base.

After you cut the base out, use the emery board to sand all the edges of the whirligig base to eliminate any sharp edges. You can use sandpaper, but the emery board is easier to maneuver around the designs.

Use crayons or markers to draw a design on the finished whirligig. Repeat on the other side of the base.

Use hole punch to make two holes about an inch apart in the center of the whirligig base.

Use scissors to cut a 4-foot length of string. Take each end and string them through the holes in the whirligig base. Tie the ends together, creating a loop.

Hold an end of the string in each hand. Twist the strings. This should create motion and lets the whirligig spin in the middle.