Q&A for How to Make a Sand Timer from Recycled Plastic Bottles

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Why should I wrap the ribbon around the dowel?

Community Answer

To decorate them. It's not necessary.

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Question

Can the cardboard be larger?

Community Answer

Size actually helps stabilizing it. But, more size might not go with the look and, also, if it gets any bigger it may not be visible from certain top angles.

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Question

There are only four dowels used in it, so why do I want the twelve dowels?

Community Answer

If you are using skewers to make dowels, you will need three skewers to make one dowel. 3 x 4 = 12.

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Question

Can we do it with a small bottle also?

Community Answer

Yes you can but you will have to adjust the measurements. Depending on the size of the bottle you will likely have to halve the amount of sand you put in.

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Question

Can I make a sand timer from a large bottle?

Community Answer

Yes, it doesn't matter how big the bottles are, you just need two of the same size. It will realistically run longer if the ratio of the sand and bottles remains the same.

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Question

How do I make a sand timer using 2 liter bottles?

Community Answer

If they are normal drinking plastic bottles, just follow this same recipe explained in the steps above.

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Question

What will happen if the sand isn't dry?

WikiBoat

Community Answer

It will clump together and might clog up the timer. Make sure to dry sand throughly and without large clumps before use.

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Question

What is the best type of glue to secure the two bottles to the platform?

IndigoTheTherian

Community Answer

Gorilla glue or super glue is likely the best choice, as hot glue might melt the plastic, and Elmer's glue wouldn't be strong enough.

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Question

How can I fix my sand timer if the sand isn't passing from one side to the other?

IndigoTheTherian

Community Answer

The hole might not be big enough, so try enlarging it.

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Question

What if the hole is too big and we've already finished? How can we repair it without opening and fixing it?

IndigoTheTherian

Community Answer

You can add more sand to compensate for the larger hole, or you might consider starting over. However, adding more sand is a quick solution.

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Question

What can I use if I don't have sand at home?

IndigoTheTherian

Community Answer

Dirt, soil, or any material similar to sand should work for your sand timer.

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