Take me to the Steps

123-DicePopper_06_kw_web

This is my version of a classic way to “roll” the die for a board game. The key to making this special die agitator is the clear plastic capsule. I found the right size, 2″ diameter and 1-7/8″ tall, in a vending machine — it’s the kind that holds inexpensive toys or trinkets.

You will need:

  • Plastic capsule, 2″ diameter
  • Die
  • Compression spring, 3/8″ diameter, 2″-long, .035″ wire diameter
  • Wood, 1/4″-thick and 3/4″-thick
  • Flathead wood screws, #8×3/4″ (4)
  • Finishing nails, 1-3/4″-long, small (4)
  • Electric drill and drill bits
  • Hole saw
  • Saw
  • Hammer
  • Screwdriver

Illustrations by Julie West

MAKE Volume 33 features our special Software for Makers section covering apps for circuit board design, 3D design and printing, microcontrollers, and programming for kids. Also, meet our new Arduino-powered Rovera robot and get started with Raspberry Pi. As usual, you’ll also find fascinating makers inside, like the maniacs on our cover, the hackers behind the popular Power Racing Series events at Maker Faire.

Try your hand at 22 great DIY projects, like the Optical Tremolo guitar effects box, "Panjolele" cake-pan ukelele, Wii Nunchuk Mouse, CNC joinery tricks, treat-dispensing cat scratching post, laser-cut flexing wooden books, sake brewing, growing incredibly hot “ghost chili” peppers, and much more.

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Project Steps

Cut the wood and drill the holes.

Parts A, C, and E are cut of 1/4″-thick wood, while parts B and D are 3/4″ thick. Cut all 5 pieces to 3-1/2″×3-1/2″.

Holes have to be drilled in all pieces except part E.

For part A, cut a large hole in the center, anywhere from 1-7/8″ to 2″ in diameter, depending on the size of the domed half of your capsule. Then drill 4 countersink holes about 1/2″ in from each corner, for the wood screws.

For parts B and C, cut a 2-1/8″-diameter hole in each center. These holes will house the bottom part of the capsule. For part D, drill a 3/8″-diameter hole in the center, which provides a guide for the spring.

Assemble.

Nail together parts B through E with the finishing nails, avoiding the corners where the screws will go. After this bottom block is assembled, insert the spring. Place a die into the capsule, snap it, and lower it into the wood block. Part A will cap everything. It requires a slight push to keep it in place as you screw in the wood screws.

After that, you’re ready to go. Good luck!