Print the parts

Print out a copy of one of each of the PDFs below.

These are designed to be printed on 8.5" x 11" (letter) paper. 

Because these parts are all meant to fit together, it's important that they're printed at the correct scale. Be careful when sending them to the printer that they are all scaled correctly.

Make sure each page is printed at 100% scale!

Cut out the three zoetrope designs.

The wall of the zoetrope will be formed from the two rectangular shapes.

Start by cutting out the "windows" with a blade.

Be careful using a hobby knife, they are sharp! Have someone help you if you need help.

Cut around the outside edge using scissors. A knife is useful for cutting out the small details.

If you don't have an X-acto knife, the 3D printed handle used here can be found on Thingiverse and pairs well with standard utility knife blades to make an excellent hobby knife.

The circular part will become the base for the zoetrope.

Cut around its outline, then use a knife to slice along the inner dashed lines. 

The oval in the center will fit snugly on the DC motor mount.

It's a good idea at this point to reinforce the mounting hole for the motor.

 

Do this by placing a piece of tape over the top and bottom of the hole before cutting it out.

 

This will help the zoetrope spin for a long time without wearing out.

This guide was first published on Jul 12, 2018. It was last updated on Mar 08, 2024.

This page (Print & Prep) was last updated on Mar 08, 2024.

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