How to make a DIY Batman LED Fidget Spinner

In this article I am going to describe how to make a fidget spinner in a Batman shape and include flashing RGB leds to give an extra wow factor.

The Batman holder is really easy to make using clay polymer and an inexpensive Batman cookie cutter. Clay polymer is based on PVC and hardens when baked. It is surprisingly durable and has a slight rubbery texture so it is ideal for this application.

Tools & materials

Cut & bake Batman

Cut a block off the modelling clay.
Knead the clay until it softens.
Place a square of aluminium foil on a flat surface.
Place the clay onto the aluminium foil.
Cover the clay with a plastic sheet.
Roll out the clay until it is approximately 10mm thick.
Remove the plastic sheet.
Cut out a batman shape using the cutter.
Remove the excess clay from the outside of the cutter.
Place the aluminium foil, cutter and clay onto a baking sheet.
Bake in an oven for 30 minutes at 110C or 230F.
Leave to cool and then remove from the cutter.

Solder the flashing leds to the battery holders

Bend the led leads to meet the battery holder pins.
Solder the led leads to the battery holder pins.

The longer lead on the led connects to the positive side of the battery holder.

Modify the bearing for increased speed

To reduce friction and increase the spin time, the grease and rubber covers should be removed from the bearing. Normally the grease is necessary to prevent damage to the bearing but in this application the load is very light.

Using a flat blade remove the rubber seals from the bearing.
Spray wd40 into the bearing to remove the grease.
Clean the bearing with alcohol.

Drill a hole in Batman

Using a ruler, mark the centre of the Batman holder.
Drill a 20mm diameter hole in the centre.
Enlarge the hole using sandpaper.

The bearing should be a very tight fit.

You can also drill the hole using a 22mm drill bit but the bearing will be a loose fit and should be secured with epoxy glue.

Stick pins into Batman

Draw a centre line on the rear of the Batman holder.
Locate the led battery holders on the centre line at either edge.
Push the connection pins into the holder.
Enlarge the holes using a twist drill so that the battery holder can sit flat.

Glue Batman

To secure the battery holders in position they are glued with epoxy adhesive.

Mix the epoxy adhesive.
Apply the adhesive to the battery holders and the mounting holes.
Press the battery holders in position until the adhesive sets.

Spinner handle

The spinner handle consists of two stainless steel dome nuts and a 25mm long bolt with the head cut off. Alternatively you can use a grub screw.

Cut off the bolt head with a hacksaw.
Remove the sharp cut edges with a file.
Screw one dome nut onto the thread.
Insert the thread through the bearing.
Secure the handle in position with the second dome nut.

Take Batman for a spin

Insert the batteries into the battery holders.
The leds should light up and flash different colours.
You can turn off the leds without removing the batteries by inserting thin strips of plastic between the battery holder contacts.
Hold the spinner between your thumb and forefinger and give it a whirl.

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