ECO-Wood Doodling Shake Bot DIY STEM Kit

Create spinning, scribbling, colorful “robot art” with the Doodling Shake Bot Eco-Wood Edition DIY STEM Kit — a fun hands-on STEM build that combines engineering + creativity in one exciting mini robot. This upgraded version features laser-cut balsa wood panels for a lightweight, eco-friendly build that looks fantastic and assembles into a sturdy wobbling doodle machine with tons of personality (including googly eyes!).

Once built, simply snap in the markers, pop in batteries, and flip the switch — the motor’s vibration makes the bot shuffle and jitter across the paper, drawing unpredictable swirls, loops, and abstract masterpieces. It’s a great project for classrooms, maker labs, camps, or an afternoon “build-and-play” STEM activity at home.

No soldering required — just assemble, decorate, and let your Shake Bot draw!

Features & Specifications

• New laser-cut balsa wood body panels (eco-friendly + lightweight)
• Includes parts to build one motorized shake bot
• 3 colorful marker “legs” included (assorted colors)
• Googly eyes included for a fun finished look
• Small Phillips screwdriver included
• Assembly time: about 30-45 minutes
• Finished size (approx.): 4 in tall × 3.5 in diameter
• Powered by 2× AA (3V) batteries (not included)
• Recommended age: 8+ (Grade ~3+) with adult supervision for younger builders
• Packaged in a poly bag with downloadable full-color PDF instructions
• Perfect for STEM lessons, robotics clubs, science fair experiments, and creative play

How It Works (Simple Science That Looks Like Magic)

Inside the bot is a small DC motor with an off-center vibrating weight. When the motor spins, it creates rapid vibration that makes the robot wobble and move. Since the markers act like legs, the bot “walks” in unpredictable directions while drawing on the surface below.

This activity demonstrates real engineering concepts like:

• vibration and stability
• center of mass and balance
• energy conversion (electric → mechanical motion)
• simple circuits (battery + switch + motor)

…and the best part is: the result is always different!

What Kids & Students Learn

• How motors create motion using electricity
• How vibration can generate movement and patterns
• How body shape and marker placement affect balance
• How an on/off switch controls a simple circuit
• Patience, fine-motor skills, and step-by-step assembly thinking
• Creativity through mechanical design (art + robotics together)

Perfect For

• Elementary and middle school STEM activities
• Maker spaces and after-school science clubs
• Classroom “build and test” engineering lessons
• Science fair projects involving vibration and motion
• Hands-on birthday gifts for curious builders and artists
• Camp activities and rainy-day creative projects
• Boys and Girls Scouts robotics badges

Fun Experiment Ideas (Great for STEM Class)

• Surface Test: Try paper, cardboard, poster board, and smooth plastic folders — compare motion.
• Marker Position Challenge: Move the markers higher/lower and observe stability changes.
• Weight Variation: Add a small bit of tape or tiny clip to one side and compare the doodle pattern.
• Timer Trial: Which setup makes the most complex doodle in 30 seconds?

FAQ

Q: Is this version made of plastic?
A: This edition uses laser-cut balsa wood panels for the body structure (with electronic parts included).

Q: Do we need soldering or special tools?
A: No soldering is required. A small Phillips screwdriver is included.

Q: Does it include the battery?
A: No — it uses two AA batteries (3V) which are not included. (see related products for safe, low-cost AA batteries)

Q: What age is it best for?
A: Great for ages 8+, and also fun for older kids, teens, and adults who enjoy mini builds and maker projects.

Q: Does it work on carpet or rough surfaces?
A: It works best on a flat surface with paper. Rough or soft surfaces can slow or stop movement.