SIMPLE CRANE
A real working machine - that's very straightforward to build.
It makes a perfect project for investigating possible modifications to a basic design. The '++' button will show an 'improved' version.


KALEIDOSCOPE
A must! Three pieces of plastic mirror and some adhesive tape and anyone can make magic. The one shown is a disc kaleidoscope which is easier to make than one with loose shapes inside a container. You can use clear self adhesive plastic to sandwich tissue or petals or leaves - or anything! It all works. Better still, trap them using a laminator instead of sticky sheet.
(If you haven't any mirrors try using clear acetate sheet.)