DIY science projects that elementary school boys will love: ideas you can make with everyday materials
For a summer vacation independent research craft project, you’ll want ideas that really grab boys’ interest.
In this article, we introduce craft ideas that boys can get absorbed in—like making a capsule toy (gachapon) machine out of cardboard, creating genuine fishing gear with a reel, and handcrafting air hockey or a basketball game.
They all look impressive yet can be made with everyday materials.
How about creating fun summer memories by playing with your favorite project together with friends?
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DIY science projects elementary school boys will love! Ideas you can make with everyday materials (141–150)
Let’s make it out of paper
If you want to enjoy art casually, we recommend this crumple-paper art.
As you crumple and tear paper, you imagine what to make and build your piece.
By enjoying the feel of the paper and using your hands a lot, you naturally nurture fine motor skills, concentration, and imagination.
Moments like “It turned into this shape!” and “Let’s try this next!” spark discoveries that reveal the fun of creating.
You can freely express your individuality and easily create one-of-a-kind, captivating works—so give it a try!
Three-dimensional artwork made with aluminum foil
Here’s an idea for creating your own three-dimensional artwork using shiny aluminum foil.
Cut the foil to your preferred lengths, then crumple and compress it firmly into shape.
If you’re making a dragon, it helps to form separate parts—such as the body, tail, and horns—and refine each piece as you go.
Once all the parts are ready, check the balance and assemble them, securing everything firmly with glue or tape.
Finally, paint it in your favorite colors to complete a realistic, dynamic dragon.
The finished piece reflects light and has a strong presence, making it an eye-catching decorative item.
It’s a craft that lets you enjoy changing shapes freely and imagining a story as you create.
Cardboard 3D craft
Three-dimensional creations using single-faced corrugated cardboard make the most of the material’s qualities depending on the direction and shape of your cuts.
If you cut along the direction of the flutes, the cardboard bends easily; by changing the cutting direction, you can form pillar-like shapes.
Cut long strips and coil them or make rods to combine into towers, arches, or animal bodies—shape them freely.
Connecting multiple parts in three dimensions results in sturdy works.
Painting the surface or adding patterns enhances the finish.
Sculptures born from everyday materials convey the depth of making and the freedom of imagination.
Cardboard garbage collection truck
Let me introduce cardboard garbage collection trucks.
There are different types of garbage trucks, and their movements and installed parts vary.
All of the trucks being introduced are made using cardboard.
By paying attention to details—such as changing the shape of the emergency stop switch section, recreating the tail lamps with plastic sheets, and writing the manufacturer’s name—you can complete a garbage truck that looks just like the real thing.
Understanding the movements and features of each type of garbage truck also makes it easier to imagine the materials you’ll need to prepare.
Be sure to try making a garbage truck in your own style.
Cardboard vending machine
Let’s introduce a cardboard vending machine that looks just like the real thing.
Insert a coin and press a button, and a drink will come out from inside.
Gather the materials—milk cartons, cardboard, bubble gum, rubber bands, paper clips, plastic sheets, tape, glue, a ruler, scissors, and a utility knife—and let’s get building.
We’ll start by making the internal parts of the cardboard vending machine.
The key is to carefully measure each part and cut it to the correct size before assembling.
Measure the base cardboard as well to ensure it’s the right size to hold the drinks, then build accordingly.
It also sounds fun to make your own original drinks!
A Castle of Light Made with Corrugated Plastic and LEDs
This craft uses plastic corrugated board (known as “Pladan” in Japanese) to create a fantastical castle of light, featuring enchanting lighting effects.
Use a utility knife to cut window shapes you like into the board—stars, hearts, moons—feel free to get creative.
Once you’ve cut them out, roll the sheet into a cylinder and secure it with tape, then place an LED light inside to finish.
When you switch on the light, it shines through the windows, casting mysterious shadows around the room and creating the atmosphere of a real castle.
One of its charms is how it looks different in daylight and at night.
If you design your own and build a piece with a story, it will open up a world of imagination.
Running Robot
An exciting craft! Let me share an idea for a running robot.
Some of you might want to do a craft project but can’t think of a good idea, right? This time, let’s make a running robot that uses a windshield wiper mechanism.
You’ll need a rectangular plastic bottle, bamboo skewers, straws, thick paper, cardboard, plastic bottle caps, rubber bands, and so on.
It’s a great idea that lets you learn how a wiper mechanism works through crafting! Give it a try!