Do you remember how much fun you had playing with your Spirograph? If you’re a reader of this blog, you know I have an affinity for old fashioned toys. I recommend, to a large extent forgoing the batteries and lights and action. Yes, we do have a few of those toys in our home and actually, I recommend a few as it helps children see how much more they can do with more open ended toys. (Though I must admit, I still feel a bit guilty when I just can’t stop myself from buying an electronic toy.)

The Spirograph though is a great toy. Using gears and elbow grease children (and adults) can create an endless variety of different designs. The kit comes with seven different gears, pens and paper, as well as a gear template and storage tray.

Since I’ve recently decided that buying wrapping paper isn’t all that eco friendly, I’m always looking for ways to use home made designs in lieu of commercial wrapping paper. Spirograph creations are a great alternative!

The one concern I have is regarding the California proposition 65 warning attached to this item. Some of the materials used are said to contain chemicals that could be harmful. I’m not sure exactly to what this is referring- ink perhaps? But, it’s worth a check prior to purchase.