Building a Makeshift Bubble Machine

Kids are simple when it comes to entertainment, even a cardboard box can have the same magic effect as a videogame console does at providing pure enjoyment. The same can be said for bubbles, which have amazed and astounded children since the 17^th century (perhaps longer). What’s better than blowing bubbles you ask? How about a machine that does it for you, such as the one created by maker Drenehtral to amuse his kids.

His ‘Makeshift bubble machine’ was designed using a 15-rpm gear motor that rotates the bubble loops through the soapy solution that sits in a cutout plastic vinegar bottle. A CPU case fan provides the blowing power, which is powered by a 12V battery and a 5V regulator to maintain a steady rpm (too fast and the bubbles are a no-go). All the electronics and battery are housed in a Rubbermaid Roughneck 3-gallon plastic tub, giving it that ‘neat, streamlined’ look. Obviously, you could simply purchase a bubble machine to keep your kids endlessly entertained, but where is the fun in that? Not to mention using materials that are already on hand, makes this a cheaper alternative. See the YouTube video below for more.