How to Make a Spinning Top Out of Office Supplies: A Guide
Bored at your desk and need something fun to do? Here's an idea: learn how to make a spinning top out of office supplies. It's quick and simple. Plus, you probably have everything you need within reach. All it takes are a few common items, like paper clips, pencils, and rubber bands.
In this blog, we'll break down the easy steps to follow. You'll have a DIY fidget toy in no time. And if you're into spinning tops, Bruce Charles Designs offers high-quality, hand-crafted versions that take it to the next level.
What You Need to Make a Spinning Top
If you're wondering how to make a spinning top out of office supplies, it's easier than you think. This little project only requires a few items you likely already have on your desk. Below, we'll break down the materials needed and what each one does to help your spinning top work smoothly.
Paper Clip
A large metal paper clip is ideal for the axle of the top. Its rigid shape makes it perfect for providing the balance needed for spinning. You'll want to bend the paper clip into a straight line for this to work well.
Binder Clip
Grab a medium-sized binder clip to act as the body of the spinning top. It gives the top the right weight and stability, making sure it spins evenly. You can remove the metal arms from the clip, or leave them on if you'd like to experiment with different weights.
Pencil Eraser
For smooth spinning, attach a pencil eraser at the bottom of your top. This part reduces friction as it makes contact with your desk or surface. You can easily push a pencil eraser onto the straightened paper clip to create a sturdy tip for spinning.
Small Rubber Bands
Use small rubber bands to hold all the pieces of your spinning top together. Wrap them tightly around the binder clip and paper clip, ensuring everything stays in place. Rubber bands also help balance the top when it spins, giving it a more stable and consistent motion.
Optional: Coin or Tape
If you want your spinning top to spin longer, you can add a coin to the binder clip for extra weight. You can attach it using a piece of tape. The coin helps by adding stability and increasing the spin time. Tape can also be used to reinforce connections or smooth out rough edges of your top.
With these simple materials, you're ready to create a fun and functional spinning top.
Easy Steps to Make a Spinning Top
Making your own spinning top is simple, especially when you use items from your desk. Here's how to make a spinning top out of office supplies using just a few things you likely have on hand. Follow these easy steps to create a fun and functional spinning top for when you need a break from work.
Step 1: Prepare the Paper Clip
Start by straightening out a large paper clip. This will serve as the axle of the spinning top. Once straightened, take one end and bend it into a small loop. This step helps keep the top steady and prevents the axle from slipping out when you start spinning. You can use your hands or a pair of pliers for a cleaner bend.
Step 2: Modify the Binder Clip
Next, grab a medium-sized binder clip. This part will form the body of your spinning top. Remove the two metal arms from the clip by squeezing them out. With only the metal clip left, slide the straightened paper clip through the center of the binder clip. Make sure it's centered, with equal parts of the paper clip sticking out from both sides.
Step 3: Add the Pencil Eraser
Now, grab a pencil eraser and push it onto one end of the paper clip. This will serve as the spinning tip. Make sure the eraser fits snugly so it stays on securely. The eraser reduces friction when the top spins, helping it to spin longer.
Step 4: Secure with Rubber Bands
Wrap a small rubber band around the point where the eraser and paper clip meet. This step will hold the eraser firmly in place and add stability. You might need more than one rubber band depending on how tight you want the connection.
Step 5: Check the Balance
Now, gently spin your top to check how well it balances. If it wobbles or doesn't spin smoothly, adjust the paper clip's position in the binder clip. You want to make sure the axle stays centered for better spinning performance.
Step 6: Add a Coin for Weight (Optional)
If you want your spinning top to spin longer, try adding some weight to the body. Tape a small coin to the top of the binder clip. Make sure the coin is centered so it doesn't affect the balance. More weight helps the top spin more smoothly and for a longer time.
Step 7: Make Final Adjustments
Lastly, test your spinning top again. If it feels loose or unstable, add extra rubber bands for reinforcement. If you used tape, smooth it down to avoid any rough edges that could interfere with the spinning motion.
Looking for a Quality Spinning Top?
If you don't have time to make your own spinning top, why not try one of ours? At Bruce Charles Designs, we offer premium spinning tops with excellent craftsmanship. These spinning tops are perfect for anyone who loves precision-engineered toys but doesn't want the hassle of figuring out how to make a spinning top out of office supplies.
Schulte Stainless Steel Spinning Top
Our Schulte Stainless Steel Spinning Top is made from solid stainless steel, polished to a mirror finish. It features a Silicon Nitride Ceramic Bearing that reduces friction, making spins last up to 8+ minutes. The knurled upper section offers a great grip, giving you full control every time.
Schulte Fused Aluminum & Brass Spinning Top
This top combines aircraft-grade aluminum with solid brass. The added brass weight helps the top spin for 12+ minutes on a smooth surface. The polished finish offers a beautiful contrast between the silver and gold metals, making it a standout piece.
Schulte Brass Spinning Top
Crafted from solid brass, this spinning top shines with a polished gold finish. The heavy, balanced feel makes it perfect for long-lasting spins of up to 10+ minutes. It's not only functional but also a beautiful addition to any collection.
Each of our spinning tops offers durability, high performance, and timeless design—perfect for both casual users and collectors alike.
Why Choose Bruce Charles Designs?
If you're considering how to make a spinning top out of office supplies, but want something more refined, Bruce Charles Designs is the perfect choice. We specialize in high-quality spinning tops that are built with precision and care. Our attention to detail ensures a superior experience for both casual users and serious collectors.
Unmatched Craftsmanship
At Bruce Charles Designs, every spinning top is a work of art. Our products are made from premium materials like stainless steel and brass. Each top is CNC machined for flawless performance. We combine durability with sleek designs, offering products that stand out.
Commitment to Quality
Our dedication to excellence shows in everything we make. Each spinning top goes through a meticulous process to ensure it meets our high standards. We know that our customers expect more than just a toy; they expect long-lasting products that spin perfectly.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We believe in creating items that not only perform well but also bring joy. Our customers' satisfaction is our top priority. From beautifully designed packaging to responsive customer service, we ensure a great experience from start to finish.
If you're ready to upgrade your desk toy, visit our website today. We'll help you find the perfect spinning top!