A DIY cotton-candy machine consists of a small metal container, repurposed lighter parts to provide heat, and a switch-controlled motor to set everything spinning. Slowly pour granulated sugar into the container, and flames from the lighters will melt it. As the motor spins, the liquid sugar will fly out through little holes in the container’s sides, forming thin strands. A paper cylinder placed around the machine will capture them. Once they’ve built up, simply swirl a chopstick around the perimeter to gather the candy and taste your sweet success. This article originally appeared in the September 2015 issue of Popular Science, under the title “Build Your Own Cotton-Candy Machine.”
Stats
Time: 2 hoursCost: $26Difficulty: Medium
Tools
Push pinPower drillSoldering iron
Materials
Long-nosed lighterTorch lighterWireTwo-part epoxySuperglueMetal stand-off with a screw, washer, and nutsA small cosmetic aluminum container (found in drugstores) or a metal drink capSmall project boxDC motorAA-battery holderClay epoxyPaper, tape, rubber band, and a chopstick
