Build a cardboard rocket
Build a standing model rocket with a nose cone, bright fins and a mission of its own.
Activity steps
- Set up the rocket workshop,Hang the space banner behind the rocket table with its included cord, clear of the game lanes. Cover one work surface per group of six. Give each guest a clean cardboard tube and two sheets of cardstock. Share rulers among three, pencils and scissors between two, glue sticks among three, and markers among six. Put out one roll of removable paper tape per group of six.
- Make a nose cone and fins,Curve a small piece of card into a cone slightly wider than the tube and tape the edge. An adult helps trim it. Draw and cut three broad triangular fins, leaving a folding tab on each. Fold the tabs and glue them low on the tube; use small tape pieces to hold them while the glue grips.
- Name the mission,Attach the cone to the top with paper tape. Draw windows and a bold mission symbol with markers. Use leftover card for a short name strip, then glue it to the model. Keep the base open and adjust the fins so the rocket stands steadily.
- Share the launch plans,Leave the rockets standing on the covered table to dry. Each guest can describe an imaginary place their rocket would visit. Display the models and carry them carefully; nothing is actually launched.
Make one sample to check that your tube and card work together. Pre-cut fins for younger makers and keep the display on a stable table.
Shopping list for 6 people
- Clean cardboard craft tubes — 6 tubes
- Colored cardstock — 12 sheets
- Rulers to share — 2 rulers
- Pencils — 3 pencils
- Age-appropriate paper scissors — 3 pairs
- Glue sticks — 2 sticks
- Washable marker assortment — 1 set
- Removable paper tape — 1 roll
- Wipeable table cover — 1 cover
- Space birthday backdrop — 1 backdrop
Use supplies you already have. Enable JavaScript to adjust guests and mark what you need.