Cotton Reel Racer.

pinshape

A child's delight: a 3D-printed cotton reel racer or tractor comes to life! I relived my childhood nostalgia by creating a printable version of these classic toys. Perfect for kids or as a desktop curiosity, this fun project is easy to assemble and requires minimal parts. Simply thread a rubber band through the center hole and around the locking bar at one end, then through the washer and around the main bar at the other end. A thin wire with a small hook on one end will make it easier to pull the band through. Be prepared to experiment with rubber band sizes and strengths – too powerful and the reel will spin wildly, too weak and it won't move at all. Find that sweet spot where you can wind many turns while still enjoying a smooth output. I discovered that a small, thin band works best. My printer churned out this delightful toy at 0.2mm layers, three perimeters, and 15% infill – no support needed!