Something for 9yr old to make

Our grandchildren are coming for Christmas and my 9yr old grandson wants to make something in my workshop, probably from wood and for it not to take too long. I guess 2 - 3 days working about an hour each day. The thing is, he wants to make it all by himself (obviously with guidance from Gramps). Anybody have any ideas?

Not really a wood project , but a fairly simple project that had me fascinated at a similar age when we went to stay with a relative ( who had been an RAF radio mechanic)  was a crystal radio, made from basic materials, coils hand wound around card formers, only purchased items must have been an earpiece and a diode. Still remember the excitement of making something that actually worked and did something. I think the instructions came from a Boys Own Paper annual that was old then, but checked and there are many instructions online.

Edited By Dave Wootton on 03/12/2022 17:38:39

Something simple but novel. In the time available, he'll not be able to make anything too complicated. Perhaps a simple wooden puzzle, he'll then be able to 'amaze' the rest of the family and have a few laughs over the festive season.

If nothing comes to mind, I have a few suggestions that may suit & would be practical for a 9 year old in the time suggested. Just say if you need one. Regards Mike

Simple model biplane? Lots of good skills involved there. Can be as simple or complicated as his ability needs.

Sword and shield are always popular at that age, but maybe not so much with the parents

Chuck glider.

If they arrive before Christmas, how about turning some tree decorations?

Water bottle rockets are always fun and this version looks quite cool with some real bits of building
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMI5JaTy0Mg

Hi Dave,

What about a tasteful hardwood stand for his mobile phone or laptop? I find things usually take at least twice as long as anticipated, so best not go too ambitious with those available 'boy hours'.

Bird box

Bird table

Bug Hotel

Something for Mum - typical garden TRUG

Show him how to make a box by cutting sides, gluing on both top and bottom, then sawing the lid (and its sides) from the bottom. then add hinges and catches.

Good luck

I think what may help is to know what machines you have and which tools he will be allowed to operate. Also what is he into.

I may be able to help if you can answer those questions. Remember that anything that needs gluing will need time to dry as well as some finishes if you intend to apply any.

Edited By Dalboy on 03/12/2022 19:36:54

In another thread Carl said: "Conkers ! that brings it all back... I tried pickling in vinegar, baking in the oven, ageing in the airing cupboard, all kinds of hocus locus but never could get that unbeatable smasher..."

That's what I wanted aged 9, so how about making the boy a case-hardened mild-steel conker, carefully finished to look and weigh the same as a real one.

Dave

I'd make something on a lathe, assuming you have one. It will probably be more interesting for him.

A model canon

Captive nut puzzle

A turned pen

Spinning top

If you've a lathe you can set him up with, a pen kit can be a good little project. In the kit you get a ballpoint and ink tube, a twist in-out mechanism, cone, centre ring, clip and retainer. Basically the maker needs to turn and drill the outer tube and cap. I don't have a pic of the one the eldest granddaughter made, but here's one I did for the daughter-in-law a few years back:-

+1 for the pen, something useful and will last him years.

When I was a youngster, my oldedr brothers mtaught me how to make ma "tank" from a cotton reel, a matchstick, a panel pin and a rubber nand.

later I was taught how to solder, to make a simple steam turbine form a syrup tin, a Meccano shaft and some other bits of tin. Mounted on the cooker, it ran well,, until the water had all been used up!

These might binterest him, although the soldering and running may need some supervision.

Howard

If a lathe is to hand then a cannon that will fire caps or rio snappers ? Noel.

A rubber band gun is a favourite, simple to make and lots of fun shooting at empty drink tins.

customized caps for his bike tyre valves.

David,

Last evening I watched Professor Anna Fry's programme "The secret genius of modern life" on BBC2 @18.30. Found it thoroughly entertaining and informative. If I was 9, I'd be badgering my Grandpa to make the demonstration electric motor and battery as shown by her. You could watch the programme together and then venture out into the workshop where you will have already gathered the materials to repeat the experiments.

Whatever you decide, have fun!

John