Assemble a butterfly net

What can I use instead of the mesh or wooden dowel if they’re hard to find?

If you don't have mesh, use tulle, a lightweight mosquito net, or a clean pantyhose stretched into a rectangle, and if you don't have a wooden dowel use a broom handle, straight stick, or a 1" PVC pipe cut to size to slide the cone onto as described in 'Trim the small tail end of the cone so it will slide onto the dowel about 4 inches.'

The glued seam or the mesh where it meets the dowel is coming loose—what should I try?

After 'Glue the overlapped edges' and 'Wrap tape around the glued seam,' reinforce by adding extra tape layers, a zip tie or a bead of hot glue under the taped joint, and roughen the dowel end with sandpaper so the cone fits more snugly before 'Let the glue dry completely.'

How can I adapt this butterfly net activity for different ages?

For toddlers have an adult pre-cut the mesh and pre-fit the cone onto the dowel so they can do simpler steps like wrapping tape and gentle sweeping, while older kids can cut the full rectangle themselves, sew the seam instead of using glue, and try adding a wire hoop for a professional-looking rim.

What are some ways to extend or personalize the finished net?

Decorate the wooden dowel with washable paint, add a foam grip or wrist strap at the handle, insert a coat-hanger hoop before sliding the cone on to keep the opening round, and attach a small mesh observation pouch for the butterflies before sharing your photo/story on DIY.org.