How to Make a Kaleidoscope Design
A kaleidoscope is a telescope like object which creates different patterns of colours and illusions as you rotate the scope in the clock wise or counter clock wise direction. Kaleidoscope is constructed from connected cylindrical pieces, each of which has a different coloured transparent or semi transparent glass attached to their edges.
In order to make a simple kaleidoscope all you need is three mirrors which form a hollow triangle. Put this triangle into a hollow tube with no other source of entry of light than the start and end of the pipe.
Instructions
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1
First of all mark out a rectangle on a plastic sheet. The dimensions for the rectangle should be 11 by 4 inches. Cut the sheet out and draw a line about 2 inches from the side of the rectangle.
Use a ruler to measure 1 inch from the drawn line and draw another line parallel to the first one.
Measure an inch from the second line and draw a third parallel line.
Now fold the sheet on these lines in order so that the lines drawn form the sides of the pyramid. -
2
Use solution tape to hold the pyramid into place. Buy black construction paper from a nearby stationary store, make sure that it is thick and does not allow any light to pass through.
Draw a circle of 1.5 inch radius on the paper and mark its centre point with the sharp end of the compass. Poke the hole with a needle or a sharp pencil to make a small hole. -
3
Use scissors to cut the circle and make snips at the outer boundary of the circle. Put the circle on the tube so that the hole is perfectly aligned with the centre point of the tube. Use a rubber band to attach the circle to the tube till the glue dries out.
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4
Draw another circle with the same dimensions on the plastic sheet and cut it with the help of scissors. Make snips of same size and shape on the circle around the outer surface of the circle. Take out a tissue paper and use to make a 5 inch circle.
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5
Fold the plastic sheet over the end of the pipe. Use glue to permanently fix the sheet to the tube and pack the coloured glass inside the tube.
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6
Make sure that no light enters the tube other than the small hole in the centre of the back paper.
