Crafting a NERF Target

This guide details how to construct a rotating NERF target using common household materials. The target is suitable for practice or children’s parties.

Materials Needed:

• Cardboard box (approx. 29 cm W x 41 cm H x 18 cm D)
• Thick cardboard for targets (3 mm thickness)
• Colored paper and/or round stickers
• Wooden dowel (6 mm x 50 cm)
• Twine or strong thread
• Paint and stickers (optional, for decoration)
• Glue
• Scissors or craft knife
• Ruler
• Compass

Target Construction:

1. Create Target Discs: Use a compass to draw four circles with a 8.5 cm diameter on thick cardboard. If using thinner cardboard, cut out double layers and glue them together for durability against NERF darts.
2. Combine Discs: Draw two circles adjacent to each other, spaced about 1.5 cm apart. Connect these two circles with a narrow bridge.
3. Cut Out Targets: Carefully cut out the target shape (two connected circles) using a craft knife or box cutter.
4. Decorate Targets: Draw eight circles with the same 8.5 cm diameter on colored gift wrap. Cut these out and glue them to both the front and back of the cardboard targets. For added detail, draw and cut out eight smaller circles (2.5 cm diameter) from paper of a different color and glue one to the center of each target. Small stickers or pushpins can also be used to mark the center; if using pushpins, bend the sharp points on the back to prevent injury.

Assembling the Target Stand:

1. Build the Frame: Use a cardboard box to create the frame for the targets. Fold the top flaps inward and glue them to reinforce the structure.
2. Attach Targets to Dowel: Tie the target discs securely to the wooden dowel using twine. Place the dowel over the bridge connecting the two target discs and tie the twine crosswise to ensure a firm connection. The targets should be tight enough not to fall but loose enough to spin manually.
3. Mount the Dowel: Apply glue to the wooden dowel and insert it into the cardboard frame. Ensure the targets can rotate freely without obstruction.

Optional decoration can be added to the cardboard frame with paint and stickers.