What are cranky contraptions?

Cranky Contraptions are wood and wire kinetic sculptures that animate a character or scene when the handle is turned. These tiny automata are powered by a simple crank slider mechanism which provides basic motion. With the addition of a few linkages complex movement emerges.

Learn to make your own

Read the instructions to make your own contraptions on exploratorium website. You can also download the activity guide as a PDF.

Additional resources

Watch the following video to learn how to make a crank shaft.

Watch other kids making their contraptions.

Watch some contraptions in action 👇

Don't forget to check the related tinkering activities on Exploratorium site.

Share your progress and creation

Share images of your creative progress with us and the world by using the hashtag #makewithumar on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. You can also tag me in your posts on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

Make with Umar is a free, virtual makers camp for kids and adults who like to make things. We will experiment with electronics, coding, crafts, STEM and DIY toys, and maybe even cooking, baking and gardening projects. See all projects on 'Make with Umar' homepage.