DIY Self-Assembly Windmill for Kids: A Lockdown Craft Project

Updated at: 16/03/2025

Lockdowns presented unique challenges, but also sparked creativity. For parents seeking engaging and educational activities to keep children occupied and learning, the DIY self-assembly windmill project offers a perfect solution. This fun and educational craft combines simple engineering principles with the satisfaction of creating something tangible and beautiful. It’s a fantastic opportunity to introduce children to concepts like wind energy, mechanics, and sustainability, all within the familiar confines of home. Beyond the educational benefits, the process is incredibly rewarding, fostering a sense of accomplishment and encouraging problem-solving skills.

This project utilizes readily available materials, making it both accessible and cost-effective. No prior experience is needed, making it ideal for a range of ages and abilities, with adult supervision, of course! To get started on building your own miniature marvel of engineering, simply follow the step-by-step guide outlined below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 12mm plywood
  • Yogurt pot (or compass)
  • Pencil
  • Bandsaw
  • 45-degree angle tool
  • Cardboard pieces
  • 8mm Brad point bit
  • 9mm drill bit
  • 3mm plywood offcuts
  • Small mallet (or substitute)
  • Curtain pole (or dowel)
  • Glue
  • Wood for stick
Safety Guidelines
  • Adult supervision is required at all times. Sharp objects and potentially hazardous materials will be used.
  • Ensure the windmill is assembled securely to prevent parts from detaching and causing injury. Test the stability before allowing children to operate it.
  • Never operate the windmill near power lines or in strong winds that could cause it to break or fly away.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base

    • Mark out a circle on a piece of 12mm plywood using a yogurt pot or compass. Determine the center.
    • Draw a line through the center and use a 45-degree angle tool to mark positions for the blades.
    • Mark the blade positions (1 cm each) and cut slots using a bandsaw set at a 45-degree angle. Use cardboard pieces as guides.
    Mark the blade positions (1 cm each) and cut slots using a bandsaw set at a 45-degree angle. Use cardboard pieces as guides.Mark the blade positions (1 cm each) and cut slots using a bandsaw set at a 45-degree angle. Use cardboard pieces as guides.Mark the blade positions (1 cm each) and cut slots using a bandsaw set at a 45-degree angle. Use cardboard pieces as guides.
    Prepare the Base

  2. Create the Spindle

    • Create the central spindle using dowels by drilling a 9mm hole (pre-drill with an 8mm brad point bit).
    Create the central spindle using dowels by drilling a 9mm hole (pre-drill with an 8mm brad point bit).
    Create the Spindle

  3. Make the Blades

    • Cut the blades from 3mm plywood (250mm wide, 100mm for each vein). Shape and sand the veins to fit the spindle slots.
    Cut the blades from 3mm plywood (250mm wide, 100mm for each vein). Shape and sand the veins to fit the spindle slots.
    Make the Blades

  4. Prepare the Support Stick

    • Cut and prepare a piece of wood for the windmill support stick.
    Cut and prepare a piece of wood for the windmill support stick.
    Prepare the Support Stick

  5. Make the Assembly Tool

    • Make a mallet from a piece of curtain pole and dowel (or use a substitute).
    Make a mallet from a piece of curtain pole and dowel (or use a substitute).
    Make the Assembly Tool

  6. Assemble the Windmill

    • Insert the blades into the slots on the disc using the mallet.
    • Insert the spindle into the disc and attach it to the support stick. Add a washer for reinforcement.
    Insert the spindle into the disc and attach it to the support stick. Add a washer for reinforcement.Insert the spindle into the disc and attach it to the support stick. Add a washer for reinforcement.
    Assemble the Windmill

Read more: Crafting a Biodegradable Woodsman's Whistle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Using a compass for the initial circle is more accurate than a yogurt pot.
  • Sanding the edges of the veins and blades will result in a smoother, safer final product.
  • A substitute for the mallet can be made from easily accessible materials, like a clothes hanger.
  • Adult supervision is recommended when using tools and hammering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Blade Imbalance

Reason: Unevenly cut or weighted blades will cause the windmill to wobble or not spin properly.
Solution: Carefully ensure all blades are the same size and weight, re-cutting or adding small weights as needed for balance.

2. Improper Axle Alignment

Reason: A crooked or loose axle will prevent the blades from spinning freely or even break the structure.
Solution: Double-check the axle is straight, securely fastened, and rotates smoothly within its supports.

FAQs

My child is only 5 years old. Is this project too difficult for them?
While older children might be able to complete more steps independently, this project is adaptable for younger children. Focus on simpler tasks like decorating the windmill blades or helping to glue parts together. Adult supervision is crucial, especially for younger children, to ensure safe handling of tools and materials.