This week we are going to continue with the "moving picture" theme and build a Phenakistoscope. Luckily for all of us, it's a lot easier to build than it is to pronounce. Even better, you the first thing you need to do is eat a lollypop! Why? Well, read on.
So the big question is, what is a Phenakistoscope and is it going to hurt me? I found some good information for Wikipedia:
The phenakistoscope (also spelled phenakistiscope) was an early animation device, the predecessor of the zoetrope. It was invented in 1831 simultaneously by the Belgian Joseph Plateau and the Austrian Simon von Stampfer. The word "phenakistoscope" comes from Greek roots meaning "to cheat", as it deceives the eye by making the pictures look like an animation.
And no, it isn't going to hurt you! Not even in the wallet! Best of all, it takes about 15 - 20 minutes to build. Let's get started.
What you need:
- Lollypop spinner - You know, the lazy kid lollypops
- Template - Phenakistoscope.pdf
- Scissors
- X-Acto knife - Be careful!
- Glue - Glue sticks works best
- Black, heavy weight paper
Step 1: Make the disc
Print out the dial template [Phenakistoscope.pdf] and glue it to some heavy weight black paper. It doesn't have to be black, but a darker color works best. The dial I printed has a 3D MAKE logo that spins around. You can draw whatever animation you want in the empty boxes provided on the template.
http://blog.makezine.com/archive/2008/08/build_phenakistoscope.html