Kaleidocycles: Handheld Happiness Machines

From the Greek roots kalos (καλός) meaning "beautiful," eidos (εἶδος) meaning "form" or "shape," and "kyklos" (κύκλος) meaning "ring" or "circle,"

a kaleidocycle is literally a "beautiful form ring" or "beautiful shape cycle."

Paper kaleidocycle - source: Wix

With no beginning or end, kaleidocycles remind me of the universe. If you believe math is the language of God, these mathematical objects are God's art. They are a feast for the eyes, fingertips, muscles, and brain.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/1cf060_49c66c9578b6408fb1e5811ef96b4b92/720p/mp4/file.mp4

I crocheted this cotton kaleidocycle, called Stained Glass. Stuffed with dried beans, it feels like 6 joined hackeysacks when you hold and turn it.

A kaleidocycle's geometric elegance and visual firework effects call to mind orbiting planets and galaxies.

I find playing with a kaleidocycle relaxing. You can't rush while turning it—it's a great opportunity to slow down and center yourself. The craftsmanship and love put into its creation mirrors the beauty of creation itself.

Kaleidocycles are an important part of my family history.

My mother made me a mobile of the five Platonic solids for my crib, which may be why I like these joined tetrahedra so much, or maybe there is another reason.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/1cf060_26d3fc1459274c5489bcb2c04d2fc66d/720p/mp4/file.mp4

Another crocheted cotton kaleidocycle, called Seasons (but should be called Using up Scrap Yarn)

If you are an adult who wants more playfulness in your life, or a child who thrives on tactile fidgeting, try your hand (heh) at making one from paper (thick paper or cardstock works best). With experience, you can make blooming flowers, ocean waves, freeform art, or anything you can dream up by coloring the triangles where they line up.

Paper kaleidocycle template. Full instructions here.

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