Walter Ruffler is a specialist in building paper automata. His kits are designed to demonstrate various mechanisms and motions which can then be translated to more permanent modelling media. The kits require some patience to build, but clear illustrated instructions and good design make them worthwhile projects for adults and motivated children. The suggested age range for these models is 12 and up.
Price Around $10 for most kits.
Available online from the artist, as well as through other paper craft shops. Often available in speciality stationery/craft or art supply stores in North America and Europe.
A Wide Variety of Subjects and Motions
The paper machines from Walter Ruffler are produced in a wide variety of themes, to illustrate various commonly used mechanisms that translate the turning of a crank or the flow of sand into particular motions. All of the models come in bright primary colors, with a simple hand illustrated style. When finished they create interesting stand alone paper automata which have a clever set of moving effects.
For anyone unfamiliar with creating mechanical motion through the use of cams, these models are a good way to learn simple mechanical motion that can be translated to many other models, including wind vane whirligigs, and power operated models. Most kits consist of 2 to five sheets of pre printed lightweight card, and include other items necessary to complete the model, including string or toothpicks.
The models range from mounted riders to Chinese dragons, fisherman, moving head toys, and illustrations of simple tools. Many of the sets of motions involved are similar to those used for traditional whirligigs. The designs use a range of paper modelling techniques and are also a great way to learn the basics of creating simple three dimensional paper models.
Walter Ruffler's Website discusses the motion of each of the models available and has a separate section explaining the types of motion possible, and which models demonstrate which motions.
Most finished models have a base approximately 5 inches by 3 inches with a height of twelve inches or less.
Easy to Assemble With Clear Directions
The models are all easy to assemble, with clear illustrated directions, dotted and dashed fold lines, and a matching number system to illustrate which part glues where. Each section of the instructions has a title for that particular piece, and shows the finished assembly clearly. All that a modeller requires is glue, scissors or a sharp craft knife and cutting board, and perhaps a few extra toothpicks or wooden skewers.
The models go together fairly quickly, with each sheet holding parts in order for a particular stage of the model, helpful when a project is being built by a child, as it keeps small parts from being lost. Tips and techniques for troubleshooting problems are included, and construction details come with hints and show which parts need particular attention, very useful for novice builders! The website has a sample set of instructions posted showing parts and instructions for the Stormy Sea model.
The models do require some skill to cut out and careful folding of parts which restricts their assembly to motivated children interested in working precisely with paper. The best results will be obtained from accurate cutting and folding.
Great Way to Teach Simple Mechanics
These models kits are lightweight and easily posted. Their overall sheet size of 8 1/2 by 12 inches makes them an easy gift for distant friends or relatives who enjoy modelling. They can be built in a day or two, depending on how long it takes for your glue to dry, and the design of the parts sheets means you don't need to leave hundreds of small parts in a particular area if you are called away before you can complete the model.
As each model explores one or two particular motions associated with cranks or levers, the models are an inexpensive, hands on method of learning simple mechanics which can be applied to numerous moving model applications. If you want to explore moveable models, or test out ideas for automatons made from wood or metal, this is a great way to start.
Note Even if you don't want to build the paper models, Walter Ruffler's site has a great gallery of antique mechanical paper toys.
