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Hexbug Powered Spinning Pens – Simple STEM Project

By 8 Comments

I was searching for small motors for a STEM project when it occurred to me that I could use a Hexbug instead, which has the big advantage of no wires whilst still vibrating brilliantly.

I’ve got lots of ideas for fun things we can make, but first up are these spinning pens.

Hexbug Spinning Pena

We also tried a giant version and made a huge piece of Hexbug Powered Pen art!

Hexbug Powered Pens

You’ll need

Hexbug

Felt tips

Blue Tack

Elastic band

White paper

How to make Hexbug-powered spinning pens

  1. Use the elastic band to tie the top of the pens together.
  2. Separate the pens out and attach together with the blu tack.
  3. Attach a hexbug to the side using a bit more blu tack.
  4. Turn the hexbug on and watch the drawing.
3 felt tip pens held together with blu tack. A Hexbug is attached to one pen and the pens are stood on a large sheet of paper with drawing marks underneath

Extension Ideas

What happens if you place the pens further apart and then closer to each other?

Can you use two hexbugs?

What happens if you use longer/shorter or heavier/lighter pens?

Try placing the Hexbugs at the top and bottom of the pens and investigate what changes.

Can you go large?

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Last Updated on February 10, 2023 by Emma Vanstone

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Safety Notice

Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Penny

    He he, I love this and I know someone else who will too!

    Reply

  2. Becky

    we have a million hexbugs and THAT IS COOL!!!!!!

    Reply

  3. Emma

    You have the best imagination for these projects, this would never have occurred to me, but how fantastic! My 8 year old will NEED to do this, I know! 😀

    Reply

  4. Lulastic

    I LOVE the idea of a little thing making something simple more exciting! Soo great!

    Reply

  5. carol slater

    hi love your idea do you think it would work with wind up toys thank you

    Reply

  6. Antonia

    What should I use if I don;t have hexbugs? Great ideea and I would love to try it.

    Reply

  7. Pinkoddy

    oh that is so clever

    Reply

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