Build a Catapult with Your Kids

This catapult is a very easy build and is made from readily available dimensional lumber (and a few rubber bands). Be sure to download the plan, which provides you with all the dimensions and details for the catapult.

What can the kids do?

As you’re planning the Build a Catapult project, think about what aspects the kids can do. Lots of the work can be done with hand tools, or you can use a miter saw, bandsaw, and drill press. If you’re not sure how to decide which operations the kiddos should or shouldn’t do, be sure to have a listen to Chris Lyons’s advice on woodworking with kids. It’s very helpful.

Material

You can grab what you need—dimensional pine and some dowels—from a home center. We’ve learned that heavy-duty rubber bands are best as they take the abuse well, so stop at an office supply store on your way home. And the grocery store, for ammunition.

More to do

Once the kids are excited about being in the shop, show them the huge variety of projects we have available so they can pick out what they’ll be doing next.

Download the Catapult Plan