Until recently I’d never seen the word ‘thaumatrope’.  My curiosity began one day as I watched the opening to  the mini series of Charles Dickens’, “Little Dorrit”.  In the opening credits there were pictures spinning on strings.  I wanted one!

I‘d seen such a simple toy before, but wondered how to make one.  As I searched I came across the word  ‘thaumatrope’.  It was coined for spinning pictures that were the first type of animation in the early 1800’s.  The most basic spinners or thaumatropes were the ones made of just two images that when spun back and forth took on the form a of a simple animation.

It was enchanting and inspired.  I found a few images at ‘theGraphicsFairy.com‘ that were suitable to be altered.  Immediately I set out on a quest to make my own spinners. Because it’s near Valentines Day I couldn’t resist making some Valentine spinners to give away. (SHHH!  The grandkids haven’t seen these yet.)

The best paper to print them on  is photo paper.  It allows for the most vivid colors.  White card stock also works quite well but regular white paper will do in a pinch.  They have all worked for me.  I’ve discovered a number of things  that will work well for the stick to spin the Valentine on; lollipops,(yes my tongue is cherry-red as I write this), Pixie Sticks, pencils, straws.  All you do is tape the stick to the  wrong sides of the valentine.

After making it the fun starts because all you have to do is gently spin the picture on the stick back and forth between your hands.  The action on my Valentines are as follows:  The baker shares her cookies.  The puppy gets brushed.  The lady waves her fan and the hearts jump!  Have fun.  –Laura

Click here to go to the download page for the free printables.

Here’s  the short and sweet video tutorial:

 

linky party thank-yous:

Costal Charm

Hopestudios.com