The Ultimate Kit Guide

4

Phantastron Synthesizer Kit

Phantastron Synthesizer Kit

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Phantastron Synthesizer Kit

$195

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Reviewed: November 11th, 2011

In an alternate Old West universe, folks played synthesizers, and they called ‘em “Phantastrons.” Incorporating tubes, steel panels, and a branded wooden crate ripe for customization, this is one unusual synth kit. The power supply comes mostly assembled, but the 30s-era “turret board” is a challenge for seasoned solderers. Not your standard volt-per-octave functionality; this oscillator […]

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Premium Berliner Gramophone Kit

Premium Berliner Gramophone Kit

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Premium Berliner Gramophone Kit

$120

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Constructed from a motor and various bits of wood, plastic, and styrofoam, this retro gramophone kit offers the allure of carving grooves into compact discs and Dixie cups with a sewing-needle-based pickup and playback assembly. Illustrated instructions in both Japanese and well-translated English are included, and the hour-long assembly only requires a screwdriver, some scotch tape, and a […]

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Litiholo Hologram Kit

Litiholo Hologram Kit

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Litiholo Hologram Kit

$100

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Reviewed: November 8th, 2011

Making holograms became faster and easier a few years ago when Litiholo introduced its Instant Hologram film. Like old Polaroids, these film plates require no developing after exposure, which means, in about an hour, you can make your own transmission hologram of anything that will sit still next to the plate. The kit also includes […]

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Perfume Science

Perfume Science

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Perfume Science

$60

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Learn about the sense of smell with eight perfume oils and a variety of jars, mixers, and pipettes. Experiments range from fragrance extraction to composing your own perfume scents. My friend and I enjoyed one experiment where we prepared test strips of all the fragrances and then guessed which we were sniffing. I got two […]

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Schacht Mini Loom Weaving Kit

Schacht Mini Loom Weaving Kit

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Schacht Mini Loom Weaving Kit

$35

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Reviewed: November 2nd, 2011

Beginners can learn how to weave their own bags, mats, coasters, and more with this portable weaving kit. The plastic mini loom comes with two shuttles, a beater, a weaving needle, five colors of yarn, and project instructions. Perfect for kids!

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Karakuri Somersault Doll

Karakuri Somersault Doll

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Karakuri Somersault Doll

$75

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Reviewed: October 26th, 2011

Employing a centuries-old secret technique from the Edo period, this kit has everything needed to create an acrobatic doll, plus a festive kimono and a tiered pedestal on which to perform. You can even adjust the velocity of the doll’s action. The instructions are in Japanese with beautiful illustrations that make it easy to put together.

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Solar Grasshopper Kit

Solar Grasshopper Kit

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Solar Grasshopper Kit

$12

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Build your own life-size grasshopper and explore solar power with this educational mini solar robot kit. The snap-together, attention-getting  Solar Frightened Grasshopper teaches how solar energy can be used to generate electricity. This easy-to-use science kit is perfect for first-time experimenters with little or no experience. Ages 10 and up.

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