Pull-String Spinning Top

Designed as part of my Monthly Make series, this toy is easy to print and to use. A quick pull sends it off, easily achieving spin times of over 3 minutes.

This model can be fully assembled and used without external hardware (aside from some string/cord), but there are optional extra pieces that can improve performance. See below for details.

Required Materials

Print one of each part. Note that the top_half and bottom_half pieces come in two variants: patterned and blank. You only need to print the variant you prefer.

This model can be fully printed and used without any external materials. However, for maximum performance, I recommend adding:

• String or cord, less than 3mm thick. This can be any length you want, but I recommend between 24 and 36 inches.
• 1x steel ball, ½" diameter (or another ball of the same size, such as an appropriately-sized marble). I got mine from here. This part improves the contact surface of the tip and makes the top spin more smoothly.
• 1x metal ring, ¼" thick and 2" inside diameter. I got mine from here. This part adds weight and increases spin times.

If you acquire a steel ball or marble, you do not need to print STRING_TOP-ball.stl.

Assembly Instructions

1. Print all parts (see above for details).
2. Insert the stem piece into the inner piece until it clicks into place.
3. Screw the connector piece into one of the two body halves.
4. Drop your ball (either the printed piece or external hardware, see above) into the bottom_half. If you acquired a metal ring, insert it into the groove around the part.
5. Place your inner part into the bottom_half with the stem facing upwards.
6. Place the top_half over the bottom_half and screw them together using the threads on the connector.
7. Tie a knot at the end of your cord and insert it into the small hole in the loop. The knot should fit into the countersink.
8. Enjoy!

How to Use Your Top

1. Insert the stem of the top into the handle.
2. Feed a small amount of cord through the hole in the stem.
3. Wind the cord around the stem by spinning the top with your hand. Try to keep it somewhat tight.
4. To launch your top, hold it a few inches above a flat surface and pull the loop perpendicular to the handle. You don't need to pull very hard, but you should make sure to pull far enough that the cord completely comes free of the top, allowing it to drop.
5. Watch it go!