May 29, 2025
Description
I was looking for an decent old-school fidget spinner to play with and found a few models I liked. Unfortunately, my favorite models used bearings along the outside to provide the flywheel weight. Good bearings are expensive!
So I designed a model from the ground up that uses only one 608 bearing, and 6 standard 3/16 x 1" fender washers. Washers can be bought cheaply in bulk. They provide a very satisfying weight to for a smooth, long-lasting spin.
Good bearings are a must! I have found these bearings from amazon to work well: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XD6PLV1
I used these Hillman brand washers: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BDB7I0
Such a smooth spin!
(for some reason, the embedded video isn't showing for me. If it's not showing for you, here's the link: https://youtube.com/watch?v=C6FcaLsuUjE )
At about 1.5 cents per washer and 70 cents per bearing, it represents a significant savings over using 4 bearings per spinner. The total cost per fidget is about $1.20 and about 30 minutes of print time. That makes these a great print for makers who have joined my commercial membership!
The print profile has a pause built into the print. When the print pauses, press 2 washers into each void--they should be a tight fit. When you're done, it'll feel like there's a tiny gap where another washer might fit. Resist the urge to try to slip a 3rd washer in there. 2 will work fine!
The bearing caps are optional, but a nice touch. Make sure they are completely cool before trying to screw them together. The screw post is narrow and easy to break. It can help to just work it back and forth a few times before trying to completely screw it down.
License:
Standard Digital File License