A zoetrope is a simple, yet fascinating, optical toy that creates the illusion of motion through spinning images. Invented in the 19th century, it consists of images placed inside a drum with vertical slits, which you look through as the drum spins. To create your own zoetrope, follow these 10 easy steps.

1. Gather materials: You will need a circular base, a cylindrical container (such as an oatmeal canister), paper or cardstock, a pencil or pen, scissors, glue or tape, a craft knife, and a ruler or straightedge.

2. Cut the base: Trace the bottom of the cylindrical container onto your circular base material (cardboard or foam core) and cut it out with scissors or a craft knife.

3. Attach the container to the base: Apply glue to the bottom rim of your cylinder and attach it to the center of your circular base. Allow it to dry completely.

4. Measure and mark vertical slits: Using your ruler or straightedge, divide the circumference of your container into equal sections (12-16 recommended) and mark them with a pencil. This will serve as a guide for cutting out slits.

5. Cut vertical slits: Use your craft knife to carefully cut vertical slits in the container at each pencil mark. The slits should be about half an inch wide and three-quarters up the height of the cylinder.

6. Create a template for your animation strip: Measure the inner circumference of your cylinder and cut a strip of cardstock or paper that width and about three-quarters up its height.

7. Draw or print animation frames: On your animation strip, draw or print individual frames of an animation sequence (12-16 recommended). Make sure each frame is equally spaced apart on your strip.

8. Attach animation strip to cylinder: Apply glue or tape to the back of your animation strip and align it with the bottom edge of your cylinder. Carefully wrap the strip around the cylinder, ensuring it’s level and smooth.

9. Attach a handle or spindle to spin your zoetrope: Poke a hole in the center of your circular base, then insert a pencil, wooden dowel, or similar handle. Secure it by either gluing or taping it to the base.

10. Spin and enjoy: Hold onto the handle and spin your zoetrope to watch your animation come to life! Peer through the slits at eye level as the drum spins to experience the illusion of motion created by your zoetrope.

With these 10 steps, you’ll be able to create your own zoetrope and marvel at the dynamic animations you can design for endless fun and visual enchantment.