Da Vinci Catapult Mini Kit

A clever kit to make an authentic model of a leaf spring catapult, based upon a pen-and-ink drawing from c.1480s by Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519). Make the base frame, swing arm, crosspieces, and tensioning arm to send three miniature missiles flying up to 10cm. Da Vinci sketched two designs for catapults during the 1480s, one with a single and another with a double tensioning arm. With pre-cut parts, assemble the model and secure joints with the glue. Detailed instructions and informative notes make this a curiosity to intrigue all ages. Perfect for a desk, to inspire your own ingenious thoughts, or for display on a bookshelf: the model is bound to make a fun talking point.

Makes a model c.18 x c.6 x c.9cm
32 pre-cut dark-stain MDF pieces, plus bamboo tensioning arm, cotton string, and foam pad
Includes water-based glue and small piece of sandpaper
Detailed instructions
15 x 6 x 6cm box
Age 8+
Estimated build time: 30 minutes
Card and paper can be recycled
Cello wrap – widely recycled with soft plastics