Build a Catapult with Popsicle Sticks and a Spoon

Build a Catapult with Popsicle Sticks and a Spoon - DIY STEM Project

Sneak some science into your playtime! Kids will love this simple popsicle stick catapult design that combines engineering fun with hands-on experimentation. Using just popsicle sticks, plastic spoons, rubber bands, and aluminum foil, children can build their own launching device and test different projectiles. Experiment with different spoons and materials to see what works best. What will fling the furthest? This project is perfect for introducing basic physics concepts while having a blast!

5-10 minutes Ages 4-12

About This Project

A 5–10 minutes craft for ages 4–12, using supplies you likely already have — Rubber Bands, Popsicle Sticks, and Plastic Spoons.

GlueStick supports kids from setup to cleanup. After they choose a project, we guide them through gathering the supplies, making it, and cleaning up when they're done. We'll even help them share it safely with trusted family and friends.

Ad-free and kid-safe library — designed by a mom who wants kids to explore and create independently.

This project is perfect for:
Project Tags
catapult indoor recycled materials science stem engineering basics simple machines experiment historic science castle medieval time machine physics budget friendly reusable problem solving solo play family project construction building
  1. 1

    Find Supplies

    Do you have everything you need?
    Create a free GlueStick account to track supplies and see if you have what you need at a glance. Leave your kids tips about where supplies are stored in your household so they can set up and clean up their creative spaces independently.
    00:00
    A cartoon of Rubber Bands
    You have: unknown
    A cartoon of Popsicle Sticks
    You have: unknown
    A cartoon of Plastic Spoons
    You have: unknown
    A cartoon of Aluminum Foil
    You have: unknown
  2. 2

    Make Build a Catapult with Popsicle Sticks and a Spoon

    Your creative buddy says:
    "Let's stick together and make this one!"

    Step 1: Assemble the base

    Take 5 sticks and stack them, securing one end with a rubber band. You'll need to wrap the rubber band around several times to make it nice and secure.

    Step 2: Insert the supporting stick

    Slide one more stick between the bottom stick and the rest of the stack. Secure the other end with a rubber band.

    Step 3: Attach the spoon

    Place the spoon on top, and attach the end of the spoon to the end of the supporting stick with the last rubber band. Find some pompoms or crumple up small balls of aluminum foil to fling. Small marshmallows are also excellent. Experiment! What else can you find to launch? Do larger or smaller objects fling farther?
  3. 3

    Clean up

    Put things away so your space is tidy for next time.

    Tidy up our space

    Put away our supplies

    Check off each supply when it is put away — and any clean-up tips underneath are done too. You might find a fun surprise!

    • A cartoon of Rubber Bands
      Where they belong:
    • A cartoon of Popsicle Sticks
      Where they belong:
    • A cartoon of Plastic Spoons
      Where they belong:
    • A cartoon of Aluminum Foil
      Where they belong:

    Update what we have left

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  4. 4

    Save

    Your creative buddy says:
    "Great job!"

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About the Author

STL Motherhood

I’m a boy mom, crafter and former reporter who loves taking my kids to superhero movies. Join me for a mix of traditional kid crafts, STEM fun and 3D printing.

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