Flying Bird Toy

Experiment with some simple mechanics by creating your very own flying bird! This project is surprising simple, and with a few materials, we were able to make a whole flock of little birds. You can even do your own experimentation by creating your own creatures with various hinged pieces.

  1. Ages: 5 - 16

  2. 30 minutes - 1 hour

  3. A little messy

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Materials you'll need

Step-by-step tutorial

  • Step 1

    Gather your materials!

    Photo reference of how to complete step 1

  • Step 2

    Print out the flying bird toy template here.

    Your paper color will be the base color of your bird!

    Photo reference of how to complete step 2

  • Step 3

    Cut out the template along the black lines. Use a hole punch to punch out the circles.

    Photo reference of how to complete step 3

  • Step 4

    Fold the two flaps back along the orange lines.

    Photo reference of how to complete step 4

  • Step 5

    Overlap the two top tabs so the blue area is covered. Secure it with a piece of tape.

    Photo reference of how to complete step 5

  • Step 6

    Grab a wing and align the hole closer to the center of the wing to the holes on the body flap. Use a brad to attach the wing in place. Repeat on the other side.

    Photo reference of how to complete step 6

  • Step 7

    Loop some string through the holes on the wing tips. Then, tie the string. Make sure not to over tighten the loop or the wings may tear!

    Photo reference of how to complete step 7

  • Step 8

    Add a face to your bird! We cut out and glued on some eyes, a beak and feet.
    When we did this project with our kid testers, they created some aliens and little monsters. Get creative and see what creature you create!

    Photo reference of how to complete step 8

  • Step 9

    Add a paper clip on each wing tip. This will bring the wing back down after each flap.

    Photo reference of how to complete step 9

  • Step 10

    Place a string through the top two holes and tie.

    Photo reference of how to complete step 10

  • Final result!

    It's time to start flying! Hold onto the top loop and gently pull down on the bottom string.

    If your wings are having trouble dropping back down, check to make sure your brads are not too tight and that your paperclips are still in place.

    Photo reference of how to complete step 11

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