Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Measure and cut cardboard panels for the machine: front (12" x 14"), back (12" x 14"), sides (12" x 14"), top (12" x 12"), and base (12" x 12").
2. Assemble the box by gluing the sides to the base, then attach the front and back panels to form a sturdy box.
3. Cut out a large window on the front panel, leaving about 1" border all around for stability.
4. Create a platform inside the box to hold prizes by gluing a piece of cardboard about 3" above the base.
5. Make the claw by attaching three or four strips of cardboard or plastic (cut into claw shapes) to a small plastic cup or lightweight container. Use glue to secure them evenly around the cup's rim.
6. Attach a string to the claw that will run through your pulley system.
7. Create pulleys: either use small purchased pulley wheels or make simple pulleys by piercing bottle caps with a skewer or dowel acting as an axle. Fix these pulleys at the top inside corners of the box to guide the claw's string.
8. Thread the string through the pulleys so the claw can be raised and lowered by pulling the string.
9. Attach the string to a wooden skewer or thin dowel mounted horizontally across the top back of the box, so turning the skewer reels the string in and out. Use rubber bands or tape to secure the skewer's ends.
10. Add a simple control handle by making a small crank on the skewer for easier turning.
11. Test the claw movement by turning the crank to raise and lower the claw inside the box.
12. Decorate the outside of the machine with markers or paint as desired.
13. Place small prizes on the platform inside and enjoy your homemade claw machine!