DIY: How to Make Your Own Gumball Machine

Are you a lover of gumballs and wish to have your own gumball machine to store and dispense your favorite treat? Look no further as making your gumball machine at home is an easy and fun project to undertake. Not only will it give you a sense of accomplishment, but it will also help you save money that would have been spent on buying a commercial gumball machine. With readily available materials and a few simple steps to follow, you can make your very own gumball machine in no time.

The process involves using items such as plastic containers, clay or play dough, glue, and a few other household items to construct the machine. You can choose to customize your gumball machine by painting it with colors of your choice or adding decorations to give it a unique touch. The machine is simple to use, and all you have to do is fill it with gumballs, and you’re good to go. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of creating your gumball machine, so grab your materials, and let’s get started!

Getting Started: Materials and Tools

Before you begin building your own gumball machine, you will need to gather the necessary materials and tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Materials

• A clear plastic globe or fishbowl
• A base for the globe made out of wood or metal
• A metal rod or pipe to hold the globe in place
• A dispenser mechanism, either purchased or custom-made
• A sheet of plexiglass for the top of the machine
• A bag of gumballs

Tools

• A drill and drill bits
• A saw
• A screwdriver
• Sandpaper
• A ruler or measuring tape
• A pencil
• A sawhorse or workbench

Step 1: Building the Base

Begin by creating the base for the gumball machine. This will serve as the foundation for the rest of the machine and should be sturdy enough to hold the weight of the globe and the gumballs.

Step 1.1: Measure and Cut the Wood or Metal

Using your saw and ruler, measure and cut the wood or metal for the base of your gumball machine. Make sure that the dimensions are correct and that the base is level and flat.

Step 1.2: Sand the Edges

Use sandpaper to smooth the rough edges of the wood or metal base. This will ensure that the gumball machine looks professional and polished.

Step 1.3: Drill Holes for the Rod or Pipe

Using a drill and drill bits, create holes in the base for the metal rod or pipe that will hold the globe in place. Make sure that the holes are the correct diameter and evenly spaced.

Step 2: Attaching the Dispenser Mechanism

Next, you will need to attach the dispenser mechanism to the base of the gumball machine. This will allow the gumballs to be dispensed to the user.

Step 2.1: Purchase or Create a Dispenser Mechanism

You can either purchase a ready-made dispenser mechanism or create your own custom mechanism from scratch. Either way, make sure that it is designed to fit the dimensions of your gumball machine base.

Step 2.2: Attach the Dispenser Mechanism to the Base

Using a screwdriver, attach the dispenser mechanism to the base of the gumball machine. Make sure that it is securely fastened and level.

Step 3: Installing the Globe

The globe is the most important part of the gumball machine, as it allows the user to see the gumballs inside. Installing the globe correctly is essential to the overall look and function of the machine.

Step 3.1: Slide the Globe onto the Rod or Pipe

Carefully slide the clear plastic globe or fishbowl onto the metal rod or pipe that was installed in Step 1.3. Make sure that it is level and centered.

Step 3.2: Secure the Globe in place

Using a screwdriver, tighten any screws or bolts that are holding the globe in place. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can crack the globe.

Step 4: Adding the Top and Filling with Gumballs

The final steps of making your own gumball machine are adding the plexiglass top and filling it with gumballs.

Step 4.1: Cut and Attach the Plexiglass Top

Using a saw or plexiglass cutter, cut a piece of plexiglass to fit the top of the globe. Attach it securely to the globe using screws or bolts.

Step 4.2: Fill the Machine with Gumballs

Finally, fill your new gumball machine with brightly colored gumballs. With the dispenser mechanism in place, users can now turn the knob and watch as a tasty treat comes rolling out.

Tools and supplies you’ll need to make a gumball machine

Now that you have an idea of what type of gumball machine you want to make, it’s time to gather the necessary tools and supplies. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

1. Glass Globe: The glass globe is the most important part of the gumball machine, as it holds the gumballs. You can find glass globes in various sizes at craft stores or online.

2. Base: The base is what holds the glass globe and is typically made of wood or metal. You can use an old lamp base or wooden tiered plant stand for a unique look.

3. Drill: A drill will be necessary to make the hole for the gumball dispenser. Make sure to use the appropriate drill bit for the size of the gumballs.

4. Gumball Dispenser: The gumball dispenser can either be purchased online or salvaged from an old gumball machine. You can also make one from scratch using metal tubing or PVC pipe.

5. Bolts and Nuts: You’ll need bolts and nuts to attach the gumball dispenser to the base and to secure the globe onto the base.

6. Paint and Brushes: Choose a color that fits your decor and use paint to transform the base and dispenser into something that suits your style.

7. Sandpaper: Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges or splinters on the base.

8. Glue or Adhesive: Use glue or adhesive to secure bolts and nuts and to attach the gumball dispenser to the base.

9. Gumballs: Last but not least, you’ll need gumballs to fill the machine once it’s completed. You can purchase these online or at a local candy or grocery store.

10. Decorative accents: Add some personality to your gumball machine by using decorative accents such as stickers, decals, or ribbon.

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary tools and supplies, it’s time to get started on creating your very own gumball machine.

Materials to Build a Homemade Gumball Machine

Building a homemade gumball machine requires a few materials that are readily available at a hardware store. Here is a list of materials that you will need to build a gumball machine:

Building the Dispensing Mechanism

The dispensing mechanism is the heart of a gumball machine. It should release one gumball at a time and prevent the gumballs from falling out of the machine. Here is how you can build the mechanism:

1. Take the PVC pipe and drill a hole in the center of one end cap using a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the size of the gumball mechanism.

2. Insert the gumball mechanism into the hole so that the turning knob is on the outside of the endcap. Secure it in place by applying glue around the hole.

3. Place the second end cap on the other end of the PVC pipe.

4. Test the mechanism by turning the knob. The gumballs should fall one at a time.

Attaching the Bowl

The bowl will hold the gumballs and should be securely attached to the PVC pipe. Here are the steps to attach the bowl:

1. Turn the bowl upside down and place it on a flat surface.

2. Apply glue to the center of the bowl’s bottom.

3. Center the PVC pipe over the glue and press it firmly into place.

4. Let the glue dry completely.

Filling the Gumball Machine

Once the glue is dry, you can fill the gumball machine with colorful gumballs. Here are some tips for filling the machine:

1. Make sure to clean the bowl before filling it with gumballs.

2. Fill the bowl with gumballs, leaving a little space at the top.

3. Turn the knob a few times to make sure the mechanism is working properly.

4. Place the lid on top of the bowl.

Enjoying Your Homemade Gumball Machine

Congratulations, you’ve just built your own homemade gumball machine! Now, it’s time to enjoy it. Here are some tips for using your gumball machine:

1. Place the gumball machine on a flat, stable surface.

2. Turn the knob to release a gumball.

3. Enjoy the colorful and delicious gumballs.

Also, consider decorating your gumball machine with stickers, paint, or glitter to make it more attractive. It’s a great DIY project for kids and adults alike, and it makes a perfect gift for friends and family. With a little creativity and patience, you can build a unique and functional gumball machine that will be the talk of the town.

Thanks for Joining in the Fun!

Now that you know how to make a gumball machine, we hope you had a great time crafting your own! Whether you’re doing it from scratch or repurposing old materials, the possibilities are endless. Remember to get creative and make it your own. Don’t forget to share with us your creations on social media! We appreciate you reading this article and join us again for more DIY projects soon. Happy crafting!