How to make a hanging mobile
Last Updated on 19/05/2024
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Discover easy and fun ideas on how to make a hanging mobile using simple materials and different methods for a visual appealing result and airy aesthetic. Making a hanging mobile can be a fun and creative project. And, there are so many different versions to try according to your preferences, home decoration and aesthetic. Plus, whether you choose a hanging decor item or a hanging plant, this decor always gives height and depth to your space.
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What is a hanging mobile?
A hanging mobile is a construction that takes advantage of the principle of equilibrium. It has rods, from which weighted objects or further rods hang. The objects hanging from the rods balance each other so that the rods remain more or less horizontal. Each rod hangs from only one string, which gives it the freedom to rotate about the string. An ensemble of these balanced parts hangs freely in space, by design without coming into contact with each other.
What is kinetic art?
We all know mobile for nurseries above the crib. But there are also mobile as kinetic sculptures that are a form of kinetic art. So, in 1931, French painter and sculptor Marchel Duchamp used this term to describe the creations of American sculptor Alexander Calder. He was connecting brightly colored, abstract shapes fashioned from sheet metal with wire in a balance scale.
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How to make a hanging mobile
Choose Your Tools and Materials
Firstly, you will need basic tools.
- wire or wire hangers
- pliers
- scissors
- glue
- paper (decorative, cardboard, etc., anything is welcomed)
- beads or other decorative items
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Cut Out Shapes
Decide and prepare the theme items like birds, geometric shapes, balloons, etc. Cut them out from paper, cardboard, thin plastic or metal sheets, etc.
My first DIY mobile hanger attempt was with paper balloons using vintage book pages from an old book and in different sizes. If you’d like to create a similar one, cut paper into 4-5 balloon silhouettes and glue them to make them 3D like christmas stars. You can also glue a thick thread inside them and attach a bead at their bottom to look like a basket of the balloon.
Understand balance
Make a simple drawing of your ‘wannabe’ mobile to understand its balance point. This will help you make choices while attaching items to your mobile.
So, select and arrange your objects by size to achieve balance. Cut wire into the desirable pieces using pliers and your strength! Use a small piece to make the central hanger and make loops on every side of the other pieces.
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Assemble Your Mobile
Connect them in a desirable way; the most simple way is to create an X in the center. Hang the decorative items in the wired mobile in a way to balance them. Twist, readjust the length, or make angles with the wire if it is necessary.
More hanging mobile ideas
There are many different materials to create a mobile. These could be small paper shapes, metal figures, beads, or even natural items like driftwoods, seashells, etc. that are ideal for a nautical decor.
Geometric shapes
Sun and moon
Birds
Small boats
Pebbles
This page contains AFFILIATE LINKS. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Plus, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more on the disclosure policy page.
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