Elevator Challenge

One maker's trash is another maker's treasure! Instead of throwing away your toilet paper rolls, use them to create a fun elevator to carry objects up and down. Discover how to defy gravity with little more than string and cardboard! The Elevator Challenge is a great way to use recycled materials and learn basic engineering. All while having fun!

Supplies:

• Small Dowel Rods or Sticks

• Popsicle Sticks 

• Tape 

• String 

• Paper towel Tube 

• Toilet paper Tube 

• Cardboard 

• Cups or container

• Hole Puncher

Directions:

Step 1: Create a cardboard base. Tape 2 paper towel rolls on them.

Step 2: Punch holes at the tops of the rolls. Stick a dowel or stick through them to make a “π” shape.

Step 3: Tie a string to the stick. Connect the string to a container or cup.

Step 4: Spin the stick to roll the container up and down.

Step 5: If you want to change things up, put a paper towel roll on the stick and tie the string to the TP roll. See how speed changes!

Learning Benefits

Makers can learn to create vertical motion with pull to carry an object or container. Variations to the elevator reveal how the string acts differently when wrapping around different surface areas. Kids will discover different ways to defy gravity and how these types of tools help us in the world.

This project is lots of fun, especially working in groups. Kids can work with friends to learn team building and collaboration.  

Maker Fun Fact!

The use of elevators dates back all the way to 236 BC! Back then elevators were powered by animals and people. Learn more!