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Build a raft

Build a raft
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Build a small model raft using sticks, string, and tape. Test flotation in a tub, learn buoyancy, teamwork, and problem solving skills.

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Step-by-step guide to build a small model raft

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How to Make a Raft out of Sticks for Kids

What you need
Adult supervision required, large tub or basin filled with water, scissors, small coins or washers for cargo, sticks or craft sticks, string or twine, tape, towel

Step 1

Gather all materials and carry them to a table or flat workspace.

Step 2

Decide how big you want your raft to be and pick that number of sticks for the base.

Step 3

Lay the chosen sticks side by side with their ends lined up to make a flat deck.

Step 4

Place two support sticks perpendicular across the top of the base near each end.

Step 5

Cut three lengths of string long enough to wrap around the raft once or twice.

Step 6

Wrap the first string around the raft near one end and tie a tight knot.

Step 7

Wrap the second string around the middle of the raft and tie a tight knot.

Step 8

Wrap the third string near the other end of the raft and tie a tight knot.

Step 9

Press tape over each knot and along the sides to make the raft stronger and more water-resistant.

Step 10

Gently place the raft in the tub of water and watch whether it floats level.

Step 11

Add one coin or washer at a time onto the raft and count how many it holds before it tips or sinks.

Step 12

Make one small change to improve flotation such as moving a stick adding a bit more tape or widening the base.

Step 13

Put the raft back in the tub to test your change and see if it floats better.

Step 14

Share a photo and a short note about your raft and what you learned on DIY.org.

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

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Help!?

What can I use instead of the craft sticks, support sticks, or string if I can't find them?

You can substitute tongue depressors, chopsticks, or rolled cardboard for the base and support sticks and replace the string with yarn or thin rubber bands while still using tape and the tub for testing.

My raft sinks or tips as soon as I add coins—what should I check or fix?

Check that each knot is tied tight, press more tape over the knots and along the sides, and try widening the base or moving a stick as suggested in the 'Make one small change' step to improve stability.

How can I adapt this activity for different ages or skill levels?

For younger kids use pre-arranged sticks, have an adult tie the strings, and test with fewer or larger washers, while older kids can build bigger rafts, change support stick placement, and count how many coins the raft holds during the coin-testing step.

How can we extend or personalize the raft project after the basic test?

Personalize and improve flotation by painting the sticks before assembly, adding a paper sail taped to a support stick, or attaching small foam pieces under the base and then retesting how many coins it holds in the tub.

Watch videos on how to build a small model raft

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STEM Raft Challenge / Lesson Plan

3 Videos

Facts about buoyancy and boatbuilding for kids

🌊 Archimedes' principle says a floating object displaces its own weight in water — that helps you predict whether your raft will float.

🪵 Many woods float because their average density is less than water, so even heavy-looking logs can stay on the surface.

🛶 Rafts are one of humanity's oldest boats — people have been building simple rafts from logs and reeds for thousands of years.

🧪 Sealed air pockets or lightweight materials can massively increase how much weight a small model raft can carry before sinking.

🏝️ The Kon-Tiki expedition in 1947 sailed a balsa-wood raft over 4,300 miles to show ancient peoples could cross oceans.

How do you build a small model raft using sticks, string, and tape?

Start by arranging 6–10 sticks side by side as the raft deck. Place two thicker sticks across the deck to act as crossbeams. Lash the sticks together by wrapping string in a figure-eight or simple clove hitch around each intersection, then tie securely. Add tape over knots for extra waterproofing. Trim excess string, test balance by placing lightweight objects, and adjust spacing or add more lashings before testing in a tub of water.

What materials do I need to build a model raft?

You’ll need small craft sticks or twigs, stronger sticks for crossbeams, string or twine for lashing, and waterproof tape. Bring scissors, a ruler, and a tub of water for testing. Optional items: corks or bottle caps for extra flotation, craft glue for reinforcement, rubber bands, and small weights/toys to test load capacity. Always have a towel and adult supervision for water play.

What ages is this raft-building activity suitable for?

This activity suits preschoolers to early teens with varying supervision: ages 4–6 can help arrange sticks and tape with close adult help; ages 7–10 do most of the lashing and testing with light guidance; ages 11+ can design and troubleshoot independently. Adjust complexity—simpler lashings for younger kids, more precise construction and experiments for older children. Always supervise around water and sharp tools.

What are the benefits of building a model raft?

Building a raft teaches basic buoyancy and introduces STEM concepts like stability and weight distribution. It promotes teamwork, planning, fine motor skills, and problem solving as kids test and iterate designs. The activity encourages creativity and confidence when children see their raft float. It’s also a low-cost, hands-on way to practice following steps, measuring, and communicating ideas during group play.
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