Are you ready to embark on an exciting DIY adventure and create your very own water rocket toy from a simple upcycled plastic container? In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to transform an ordinary container into a powerful water-propelled rocket that provides hours of entertainment for kids and the young at heart.
With just a few readily available materials and a dash of creativity, you can build a water rocket toy that soars to impressive heights and brings joy to all who witness its thrilling launches. Join us as we walk you through the process, carefully curated by the inventive mind of Edgar, who found the perfect balance between simplicity and effectiveness. Not to mention, Edgar’s is not only more affordable but also more durable. That’s right, he bought one from Amazon, and it broke during the first launch!
As a bonus, you have the satisfaction of knowing you’ve repurposed a plastic container and contributed to reducing environmental waste. So, gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on this exhilarating journey of making your very own water rocket toy that guarantees endless moments of outdoor enjoyment!
What You’ll Need
Water Rocket
- Plastic container with a concave bottom. Using a plastic bottle or container with a concave bottom is essential when creating a rocket toy, as this helps to center the toy when water pressure is applied. For optimal results, Edgar recommends using one of the containers listed below, as he found the most success with these options.
- Perfect Hydration 1-gallon container
- Core Hydration 30.4oz bottle
- Lipton Iced Tea container 64oz
- Stauffers Animal Crackers 48oz container WITH the bottom from the Lipton ice tea container
- Wooden skewer sticks
- Standard zip ties
- Water hose elbow
- Water jet with valve
- Short water hose for portability of launch pad
- Tape measure OR ruler
- Power drill
- Marker
- Scissors. Edgar used wire cutters in his DIY.
Launchpad (Optional-the alternative is for the water jet to sit vertically)
- 2in x4in wood board cut into:
- (3) 5.5 in wood boards
- (2) 8in wood boards
- 8 wood screws
- 8 in. x 8.5in. Coroplast
- Pipe clamp
Water Rocket Toy Process
To begin, remove any labels on the container(s). Then, cut off the bottom of the container. Leave about 1-1 1/2 inches for the smaller section, which will serve as the upper platform. After that, put the larger section, which will serve as the lower base, on a flat surface to ensure it is level. If there are any uneven areas, smooth them out.
Next, take the top platform and mark the outside to indicate where the posts, or skewer sticks, will be placed. Edgar recommends using three skewer sticks to avoid adding unnecessary weight, but four will still work. Additionally, ensure that the marks are evenly spaced apart and create a triangular shape. Then drill two holes at each mark with a space between them that is the width of the skewer stick. These holes allow you to attach the skewer sticks to the container using zip ties.
Next, measure the skewer sticks and make a mark approximately six inches away from the blunt end. Doing this will give you enough wiggle room to make any adjustments later if necessary. Then, cut the sticks at the marked point. Feel free to make extras in case one breaks during the launch, but this is optional.
Then, use the zip ties to loosely secure them into the previously drilled holes. Then, place the sticks into the holes and tighten the zip ties until they are firmly in place. Finally, stand the platform upright and ensure that it is stable.
Next, turn the platform over, so the plastic section touches the table. Then, position the lower base (lid side down) in the center so that the sticks surround it. Securely tape it in place, or use an extra set of hands to keep it steady. After that, mark the points where the posts meet the widest part of the lower base.
Next, drill two holes that resemble the holes on the upper platform and pre-tighten zip ties into them.
After that, connect the upper platform to the lower base by inserting the stick ends into the zip ties on the lower base. Be sure to leave about 1 1/2 inches of space between the lower base lid end and the upper platform to allow for adequate water dissipation. Also, be sure to cut off the extra zip tie ends.
Launchpad (Optional)
While this water rocket toy does not require a launchpad, Edgar likes to be a little extra. Initially, he developed the prototypes without a launchpad by positioning the hose vertically, which worked perfectly fine. However, as an engineer, Edgar decided to enhance his final product by creating a launchpad.
Of course, he created a helpful diagram for his launchpad dimensions, as pictured below.
BONUS Addition
Additionally, adding a parachute man to the launch is a fun addition to the water rocket toy. Undoubtedly, it provides a thrilling effect as they soar through the air. However, they are only a once-per-launch use due to the weight of the water they acquire at takeoff. Thankfully, Edgar and Melianna devised a clever technique for quickly drying them out.
For a clear and detailed guide, you can watch Edgar’s DIY video which provides visual step-by-step instructions.
Final Thoughts on this Upcycled Water Rocket Toy
At last, you’ve now unlocked the secret to creating the ultimate water rocket toy from an upcycled plastic container. Armed with some easily attainable materials and guided by Edgar’s ingenious design, you’ve learned how to assemble a water-propelled rocket toy that promises hours of outdoor fun for kids and adults alike. As can be seen in the video, this is the ultimate upcycled water toy.
One of the remarkable aspects of this DIY project is its cost-effectiveness and durability. Edgar’s design is tried and tested (especially by Melianna), outperforming his store-bought alternative. As you embark on your water rocket adventures, remember to consider the thrilling addition of a parachute man to your launches, adding excitement and amusement.
We hope you enjoyed this idea and found these instructions helpful. Please share your thoughts, questions, or experience with Edgar’s water rocket toy in the comment section below. We would love to hear your feedback! Interested in more upcycling projects? Check out Super Simple DIY Dad/Upcycling for more exciting and imaginative ideas!
