Ever lost a board game spinner and thought your game night was ruined?
Here’s the deal: how to make board game spinner is easier than you think. And I’m going to show you exactly how to do it using materials you probably already have lying around your house.
After helping thousands of families get back to their favorite games, I’ve discovered that making your own spinner is not only simple but often works better than the original.
Sounds good? As a professional board game manufacturer, let me lead you to dive in.
Why Make Your Own Board Game Spinner?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let me explain why you’d want to create your own spinner in the first place.
It’s cost-effective. Replacement spinners from game manufacturers can cost $5-15 (if they’re even available). A DIY version costs less than $1.
It’s customizable. Want different sections? No problem. Need specific colors? Easy.
It’s faster. Instead of waiting weeks for a replacement, you can have a working spinner in 15 minutes.
But here’s the thing: not all homemade spinners are created equal.
I’ve seen people create wobbly, unbalanced spinners that barely work. That’s why I’m going to show you the exact method that works every single time.
Materials You’ll Need
Let me be upfront: you don’t need fancy crafting supplies for this project.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Materials:
- Cardboard or heavy paper (cereal boxes work great)
- Paper brad (also called a split pin)
- Large paperclip
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Compass (or string for drawing circles)
Optional Materials:
- Colored markers or pencils
- Stickers for decoration
- Laminating sheets (for durability)
- Hole punch
Pro Tip: I personally recommend using cardboard from a cereal box. It’s the perfect thickness – sturdy enough to last but easy to cut.
How to Make Board Game Spinner: Step-by-Step Guide
This is my go-to method for creating spinners. It’s reliable, smooth, and lasts for years.
Step 1: Create Your Spinner Base
First, you’ll need to create a perfect circle.
Use a compass to draw a circle that’s 4-6 inches in diameter. If you don’t have a compass, here’s a hack: tie a string to a pencil and hold the other end at your center point.
Why this size? Anything smaller becomes hard to read. Anything larger gets unwieldy during gameplay.
Cut out your circle carefully. The smoother your edges, the better your spinner will look.
Step 2: Find the Perfect Center
This step is crucial. An off-center spinner will wobble and give inconsistent results.
Draw two diagonal lines across your circle, creating an “X”. Where they intersect is your center point.
Mark this spot clearly – you’ll need it for the next step.
Step 3: Divide Your Spinner
Now you need to divide your circle into equal sections.
For most board games, you’ll want 4, 6, or 8 sections. Here’s the math:
- 4 sections = 90 degrees each
- 6 sections = 60 degrees each
- 8 sections = 45 degrees each
Use your ruler to draw lines from the center to the edge, creating your sections.
Step 4: Label and Decorate
This is where you can get creative with your DIY spinner.
Label each section with numbers, colors, or game actions. Keep the text clear and easy to read.
Pro Tip: Use different colors for each section. This makes it easier to see where the spinner lands during fast-paced games.
Step 5: Create the Pointer
Take your paperclip and straighten one end to form a pointer. Leave the other end in its original loop shape.
The pointer should be long enough to reach from the center to near the edge of your circle.
Step 6: Assembly
Here’s where the magic happens:
- Punch a small hole in the center of your spinner base
- Insert the brad through the looped end of the paperclip
- Push the brad through the hole in your spinner base
- On the back, spread the brad’s “legs” apart to secure it
Important: Don’t make it too tight. The paperclip needs to spin freely.
Step 7: Test Your Spinner
Give your custom spinner a test spin. It should rotate smoothly and come to a random stop.
If it’s sticking or not spinning well, check that:
- The hole isn’t too small
- The brad isn’t too tight
- The paperclip can move freely
Alternative Method: The Pencil Technique
Sometimes you don’t have a brad handy. Here’s a quick alternative using a pencil.
Materials needed:
- Your prepared spinner base
- Sharp pencil
- Small piece of tape
Steps:
- Poke the pencil through the center of your spinner
- The pencil should go through from the back to the front
- Tape the pencil to the back of the spinner to secure it
- Spin by flicking the spinner disc around the pencil
The downside? This method can be wobbly and doesn’t work as smoothly as the brad method.
Pro Tips for Better Spinners
After making hundreds of spinners, here are my top tips:
Balance is Everything
An unbalanced spinner will favor certain sections. To avoid this:
- Make sure your sections are exactly equal
- Use the same amount of ink/marker in each section
- Keep decorations evenly distributed
Make It Durable
Want your homemade spinner to last? Here’s what I do:
Laminate it. Cover both sides with clear contact paper or laminating sheets. This protects against wear and makes it easier to clean.
Use quality materials. Cheap cardboard will bend and warp. Invest in good poster board or heavy cardstock.
Secure the brad properly. Make sure those legs are spread wide on the back. A loose brad equals a wobbly spinner.
Customize for Your Game
Different games need different approaches:
For kids’ games: Use bright colors and simple symbols
For strategy games: Include numbers or specific game actions
For party games: Add fun challenges or dares
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let me save you some frustration by sharing the most common mistakes I see:
Off-center mounting: This creates an unbalanced spinner that doesn’t work properly. Always double-check your center point.
Too tight assembly: If the pointer can’t move freely, your spinner won’t work. Leave some play in the brad.
Uneven sections: Eyeballing your divisions leads to unfair gameplay. Use a protractor or folding method for accuracy.
Flimsy materials: Paper plates might seem convenient, but they’re too thin and will bend quickly.
Troubleshooting Your Spinner
Spinner not working perfectly? Here are quick fixes:
Problem: Spinner wobbles
Solution: Check if the brad is centered and the base is flat
Problem: Pointer doesn’t spin smoothly
Solution: Loosen the brad slightly or widen the center hole
Problem: Spinner lands on the same section repeatedly
Solution: Recheck that sections are equal and the pointer is balanced
Advanced Customization Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the basic technique, try these upgrades:
Multi-Level Spinners
Create concentric circles with different options in each ring. This works great for games with multiple variables.
Themed Designs
Match your spinner to your game’s theme:
- Medieval themes: Use parchment-colored cardboard
- Space themes: Add metallic markers
- Fantasy themes: Include mystical symbols
Interactive Elements
Add small bells or beads that rattle when spun. Kids love the extra sensory feedback.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your board game accessories in top condition:
Clean regularly: Wipe with a damp cloth to remove fingerprints and dust
Store flat: Don’t stack heavy items on top of your spinner
Check the brad: Occasionally tighten if it becomes loose
Replace when worn: Even the best DIY spinner will eventually need replacement
The Bottom Line
Creating your own game spinner is a simple, satisfying project that can save your game night. With just a few household items and 15 minutes of work, you’ll have a custom spinner that works better than many store-bought versions.
The key is taking your time with the setup – especially centering and balancing. Get those fundamentals right, and you’ll have a spinner that provides years of reliable service.
Whether you’re replacing a lost piece or creating something entirely new, knowing how to make board game spinner is a skill that every game enthusiast should have in their toolkit.
Ready to get started? Grab those materials and let’s bring your games back to life!
English 
Chinese 
German 
French 
Spanish