How To Make A Kaleidoscope

A beautiful and therapeutic instrument, the kaleidoscope has been a favorite toy of individuals of all ages. Originally invented for the purpose of optic studies in 1816 by Sir David Brewster, the kaleidoscope was quickly copied and marketed as a toy. Using multiple mirrors reflecting tiny colorful objects, kaleidoscopes create beautiful patters as the device is rotated. Brilliant in its simplicity, the kaleidoscope can be made using a few inexpensive items. Here is a step by step outline on how to make your very own kaleidoscope.

Here are the supplies you will need to begin (quantities are for each single kaleidoscope):

• Mirrors x3
  
• PVC pipe x1
  
• PVC End Cap x1
  
• Foam Rope x3
  
• Petrie Dish x1
  
• Adhesive-backed Foam Strips: x3
• PVC Cement
• Clear Tape
• Sharpies
• Small pieces of 100 grit sandpaper

1. Cut the mirrors into strips and vacuum them to make sure they're clean.
2. Drill holes in the PVC end caps.
3. Cut the adhesive foam and the foam rope into pieces measuring one inch.
4. Glue the bottoms (small ends) of the petrie dishes onto the PVC tubes.
   
5. Remove the protective layer from each of the three mirrors and gather them in your hand placing them side by side with the long edges together.
6. Shape the mirrors into a triangle with the shiny sides facing inward.
7. Wind the transparent tape round the triangle 1/2 inch from each end making sure that the triangle is firm and unable to move.
8. Remove the backing from the pieces of foam adhesive and place them on each open side of the triangle. This will keep the mirrors from moving inside the PVC pipe.
9. Insert the mirrors into the PVC pipe, foam adhesive down compressing it to make it fit.
10. Insert the three pieces of foam rope in between the points of the triangle to prevent the rest of the interior of the kaleidoscope from moving.
11. Place the PVC end cap onto the tube making sure the cap is completely on and tight.

This type of kaleidoscope will reflect the world in brilliant patterns. If you would like to add colors to the patterns follow these simple instructions.

1. Take the larger half of the petrie dish and draw various colored lines on the inside with Sharpies.
2. Lightly sand the outside face to prevent seeing the world outside.
3. To operate the kaleidoscope, rotate the petrie dish by hand.