The Two Band Jump Trick
Make a small jumping toy using two rubber bands, a paper clip and cardboard; learn elastic energy and perform the Two Band Jump Trick safely.
Step-by-step guide to make the Two Band Jump Trick toy
Step 1
Gather all the materials on a clear table so everything is within reach.
Step 2
Cut a rectangle of cardboard about 2 inches by 3 inches with the scissors.
Step 3
Use the scissors to cut a small centered slit about 1/4 inch long on one short end of the cardboard.
Step 4
Straighten the paper clip so it is a mostly straight wire.
Step 5
Bend one end of the paper clip into a small upward hook about 1/4 inch long.
Step 6
Tape the straight part of the paper clip flat to the opposite short end of the cardboard so the hook stands up.
Step 7
Hook both rubber bands onto the paper clip hook so they hang down over the top of the cardboard.
Step 8
Pull the two rubber band ends forward and loop each end through the slit so the bands are anchored and lie flat across the cardboard.
Step 9
Cut a small 1 inch square of cardboard to use as the projectile.
Step 10
Slide the small cardboard square under the two bands at the center so it sits held by the bands.
Step 11
Move to a clear open space and point the launcher away from people and faces.
Step 12
Pull the small cardboard square back until the two bands are taut.
Step 13
Let go of the square to release the stored elastic energy and watch it jump.
Step 14
Remove one rubber band and repeat the launch to compare how one band vs two bands changes the jump.
Step 15
Share a photo or video of your Two Band Jump Trick and what you learned about elastic energy on DIY.org
Help!?
What can we use if we don't have a paper clip or small rubber bands?
If you don't have a paper clip, straighten and tape a bobby pin or twist tie flat to the cardboard to form the hook, and if you lack rubber bands use hair elastics or cut a larger rubber band into two so you can still hook and loop them as described.
Why does the cardboard square sometimes slip out or not fly far?
If the square slips or doesn't fly far, check that the short slit you cut is only about 1/4 inch, the paper clip hook is taped flat and secure against the opposite short end, and the rubber bands are looped through the slit and lie flat across the cardboard before you pull back.
How can I adapt the activity for younger or older kids?
For younger children have an adult do the cuts and tape the paper clip hook and thread the rubber bands, while older kids can add extra rubber bands or use heavier or differently shaped 1-inch projectiles and measure jump distances to investigate elastic energy.
How can we extend or personalize the Two Band Jump Trick to learn more or make it cooler?
Decorate the cardboard, try different projectile shapes or weights instead of the 1-inch square, add a ruler and targets to record results, or make the paper clip hook adjustable to compare how one band versus two bands changes the jump.
Watch videos on how to perform the Two Band Jump Trick
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Facts about elastic energy and simple physics experiments for kids
🪢 Rubber bands store elastic potential energy — when they snap back that energy becomes motion for your jumping toy.
🕰️ The rubber band was patented in 1845 by Stephen Perry, making stretchy helpers common in many inventions.
🧷 Paper clips are made from steel wire and are surprisingly handy as tiny hooks, axles, or fasteners in DIY toys.
📦 Cardboard is lightweight, easy to cut, and one of the best materials for quick, kid-friendly prototypes and toy bodies.
🥽 Safety tip: always wear eye protection and keep fingers clear — stretched bands can flick unexpectedly.
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