This video teaches you how to make a spinning flagpole. It shows a simple start to finish & low-cost way to make a rotating flag shaft so that your flag can easily spin!
FLAG ATTACHMENT & VELCRO INFORMATION:
I use Velcro so I can change my flags or I might not be able to easily take my flags on and off. I only use a small piece of Velcro about the size of a postal stamp or smaller. I attach the Velcro to both pole and flag.
IMPORTANT: I try to make sure to use the same Velcro sections are placed on the poles and the reversed Velcro piece on the flags. Reason: So you can easily change flags and not have to worry about the flag getting twisted while spinning. Also, you can easily switch up poles and flags at any time without having to worry that the same Velcro sections are attached on the opposite piece (e.g. both flag and pole having smooth sections and then do not stick together). It keeps things simple if you always start out the same way and place the same Velcro sections on the same spot on the flag and opposite to the pole. Even if you intend to only make one or always keep the same flag attached, something could happen in time and it can save a lot of time and hassle! I started out making 2 and now have at least 20. I write on the Velcro package: "smooth side: pole" and "rough side: flag" so I do not forget over time & check a flag to make sure.
Another thing to keep in mind regarding Velcro that I experienced the hard way is that in most cases, simple & inexpensive (not professional grade) Velcro works fine unless it's for a recital or event where you're not going to change flags & must ensure the flag stays put. I once used a large strip of professional grade Velcro when first starting. Everything was fine until the day I needed to change the flags. Wow! I had no idea how tight some Velcro can hold! I almost tore my flag trying to get the sections apart. Now, I use pre-shaped Velcro squares or circles sold really cheap at Walmart—the sizes are small and work well. I have some really large flags (+50") and they hold up well! The small sections of Velcro make it easier to adjust if needed. Lightly align the Velcro sections in place without pressing the pieces firmly in place. This way, it's much easier to adjust the location(s) if desired.
ATTACHING FLAG TO THE FLAGPOLE (SHAFT):
Use Adhesive backed Velcro Tabs to attach to one side of the flag and the other to the flag pole. Make sure you use the same side of the Velcro Tab for all of your flag poles and use the other side of the Velcro Tabs for all of the flags so you have the ability to can change flags on your poles. Put the Velcro tabs inside of the flags near each end and do the same on the flag poles spinners near each end. Slide the flag down the flag pole and push the Velcro tabs together.
WHERE TO BUY FLAG PARTS & WEIGHTED BALL INFORMATION:
www.WorshipProducts.com or click on or copy/paste this link: http://worshipproducts.com/html/tubes_parts.html
The website sells separate parts to make a flagpole even tubing and end tip.
IMPORTANT: Please try to make sure that your weighted ball has an opening that's slightly larger than the size dowel rod you are using. Weighted balls come in various sizes.
Most of the time I use 1-1/2" unpainted wooden balls with pre-drilled holes from crafts stores such as AC Moore, Joanns, Michaels, etc. Another option for a really good ball end at a very reasonable price is online at Worship Products:
I now use clear 5/8" water tubing for the spinning tubes instead of PVC piping. I buy it at hardware stores such as Home Depot & Lowes really cheap. It is sold in long rolls of 10 0r 20 feet and cuts much easier. It can straighten out easily by being weighed down overnight. It weighs a lot less and looks really nice on the finished product!
Another thing that I forgot to mention is the hardware stores such as Home Depot also sell some of the best dowel rods at very cheap prices that are usually extremely straight and come in a range of diameter (width) sizes and usually longer (about 48 inches long) than those sold in craft stores (about 36 inches long). However, if the dowel rod is too thin in diameter (width) it can break when spun too hard (although I have never had one do so). For very young children, you can also try using thinner diameter (width) rods and thinner water hoses. The water hose is really helpful if you need lighter flags and it looks really nice on a pole(s) stored without an attached flag(s). Just make sure the dowel rod has enough space to spin inside of the hosing, PVC piping, or whatever you decide to use. Sometimes the water hosing is listed under the inner size of the hose and/or outer size...make sure the inner size (diameter) of the hose allows enough space for the dowel rods and they are not the same size. (I have almost bought the wrong size more times than I would like to admit. I grab a dowel rod off the shelf or bring one with me to double check just to be on the safe side!
