How do Solar Powered Bobbleheads Work (How to Make One?)

Most people search for cool gifts which can be a great conversation starter for friends and family.

Such gifts are the Solar Powered Bobbleheads. They can add some fun and personality to your desk or workspace.

Through this guide, we will provide some interesting guidelines on how to make one, followed by frequently asked questions (FAQs) on how they function.

Table of Contents

How Do Solar Powered Bobbleheads Work?

Solar bobbleheads work by converting the sun’s energy into electrical current which powers the bobblehead. The panel is located on the top of the bobblehead, and it collects energy from the sun. The solar panel is also responsible for charging the bobblehead’s battery.

This electric motor is connected to a spring, which makes the head of the bobblehead move up and down through a permanent magnet attached just above the spring.

This creates a magnetic field which cause the movement of the object from one side to another.

This small solar panel and the magnetic field, also power a small artificial light inside the bobblehead, which makes the eyes light up when it’s dark.

Bobbleheads can be placed in direct sunlight, or near a bright light source, such as a desk lamp.

The closer the Bobblehead is to the light source, the faster it will swing.

How to make your own solar powered bobblehead

Fortunately, there’s a way for you to make your own Solar Powered Bobblehead.

Materials you will need

Solar panel
Electric motor
Battery
Spring
Magnet
Small light (for the eyes)
Bobblehead figure

Instructions

Here are the steps you need to take in order to make your own solar bobblehead.

Step 1: Cut a hole in the back of the bobblehead figure

Before you can attach the small solar cell to the back of the bobblehead figure, use a circuit board to cut a hole in the figure.

To define what size of the circuit board to use, check the size of the solar system.

It’s important to make sure that the hole is big enough to allow the panel to fit snugly against the back of the figure.

Otherwise, there will be a gap between the two pieces, and light will be able to shine through, making it difficult for it to charge the batteries.

Once you’ve cut the spot in the circuit form, test-fit the solar-powered toy to make sure it fits properly.

If it’s too small, use a file or sandpaper to enlarge the circuit form until it’s the right size.

If it’s too large, use putty or clay to fill in any gaps so that the panel sits flush against the back of the figure.

Now that you’ve cut a hole, you’re ready to attach it to the back of the bobblehead figure.

Step 2: Attach the solar panel to the back of the figure

Once you have assembled the basic bobblehead figure, the next step is to attach the panel to the back.

This can be done using a variety of methods, but one of the simplest is to use clear-drying wood glue or tape.

If you are using tape, be sure to use a strong variety that will not easily come loose.

Once the power source is securely attached, you can begin testing it by exposing it directly to the sun.

If all goes well, the panel should absorb enough energy to power the bobblehead for several hours.

With a little practice, you should be able to get your solar-powered bobblehead to work reliably in a wide range of light conditions.

Step 3: Connect the positive and negative leads from the solar panel to the electric motor

Now that the panel and electric motor are assembled, it’s time to connect them.

First, identify the positive and negative leads from the magnet on the panel.

Then, match the magnet up with the positive and negative leads on the electric motor.

Once the magnet is lined up, use Scotch tape to secure the connection. The magnet will ensure that the current can flow freely from the panel to the electric motor.

Finally, use a drop of glue to stick the battery in place inside the bobblehead figure.

Step 4: Attach the spring to the back of the head

The fourth step in making a solar powered bobblehead is to attach the spring to the back of the head so that it is pointing downwards.

This can be done by using a hot glue gun or a piece of tape.

Once the spring is in place, you will need to secure it to the back of the head. You can do this by using a piece of string or a piece of wire.

Step 5: Put the figure in direct sunlight

The final step in making a solar powered bobblehead is to put the figure in a direct sun array.

This will ensure that the solar panels are able to recharge the batteries and that the bobblehead will be able to brightly reflect light back into the garden.

It is important to note that solar powered bobbleheads are not just for decoration; they can also be used as practical tools for keeping your garden healthy and happy.

Best solar devices on the market

Here’s a list of some of the best solar toys currently on the market that can be found on Amazon.

Solar Dancing Flower Pot

Swing dancing flower pot is a great way to add some color and life to your garden.

They come in a variety of colors, and they dance when they’re exposed to sunlight.

Solar Powered Water Fountain

A water fountain is a great way to add some motion and sound to your garden. The device is powered by the sun, so it’s completely a sustainable toy.

Solar Powered Garden Lights

Solar powered garden lights are a great way to add some light to your garden without using any energy source.

Solar Powered Bird Bath

Solar bird baths are a great way to attract wildlife to your garden.

Solar Powered Garden Gnome

A solar garden gnome is a great way to add some character to your garden.

Solar Powered Hula Girl

There are several designs of solar powered hula girls available for you to buy. If you are a collector, hula girl is a great way to add some fun and motion to your collection.

They are easy to make, and they don’t require any electricity to operate.

5 Best solar toys on the market

Solar toys are a great way to teach children how to produce a toy with renewable energy.

This toy works with an average current powered, taken from natural frequency from the sun. Towards the children, this is just magic.

This toy is not only fun and eco-friendly, but they also help to promote a STEM education.

Here are some of the best solar toys on the market:

The Elenco Solar Mechanics Kit is perfect for budding engineers. It includes over 150 pieces that can be used to build 10 different models, including a windmill, a car, and a robot.
The 4M Solar Robot Kit is perfect for kids who love to tinker. The toy can be assembled into 14 different robot configurations, each powered by a tiny solar power.
The Thames & Kosmos Solar Beetles Kit lets kids build three different insects, each with their own unique set of photovoltaic cells that energy-wiggling legs and spin wings.
The National Geographic 50-in-1 Solar Science Experiment Kit is perfect for future scientists. It includes 50 different experiments that can be powered by the sun, from building a solar oven to creating a color-changing light display.
The KidzLabs My First Solar Car Kit is perfect for little ones who want to get behind the wheel. The toy comes with everything needed to build a working solar car, including wheels, axles, and solar power.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Now for some commonly asked questions when it comes to solar powered bobbleheads.

Can you order a custom design of a solar powered bobblehead?

You can find many websites that offer custom solar powered bobbleheads. Just choose the design you want, upload a photo and provide any other details or specifications for your order.

A custom bobblehead toy makes great gift for friends, family, or co-workers.

They’re also a fun way to promote your business or brand, for example , you can have solar powered bobbleheads made in the likeness of your employees or customers.

What is the average price for a solar powered bobblehead?

The average price for a solar powered bobblehead is between $10 and $20. However, there are some more expensive models available, which can cost up to $50.

What is the difference between a solar powered bobblehead and a regular bobblehead?

The main difference between a solar powered bobblehead and a regular bobblehead is that a solar powered bobblehead will swing its head up and down, while a regular bobblehead will not.

How can we charge a solar bobblehead?

To charge the panel, simply place the bobblehead in direct sunlight. It will then start to charge, and the bobblehead will be ready to use again.

Do they need batteries?

Not only they a fun desk toy, but they are also eco-friendly and require no batteries.

What are they made of?

They are made of PVC, high quality plastic, which is a recyclable material.

How long do they last?

Solar Powered Bobbleheads will last as long as the panel and electric motor inside them continue to work. These components generally have a lifespan of several years.

How do I clean them?

You can wipe the solar power with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. The body of the bobblehead can also be wiped down with a damp cloth.

Avoid getting the electric motor wet, as this could damage it and always read the description.

What if my solar powered bobblehead stops working?

If your Solar Powered Bobblehead stops working, it may be due to a problem with the solar power system, the electric motor or its battery.

You can try cleaning the solar toy. If these steps don’t work, you may need to buy a new Solar Powered Bobblehead.

How can I make my solar powered bobblehead last longer?

You can make your Solar Powered Bobblehead last longer by keeping the solar panel clean and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures.

Extreme cold or heat can damage the solar panel and/or electric motor.

Do solar powered bobbleheads have any emotional effect on humans?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as the effects will vary from person to person.

However, some people may find that solar powered bobbleheads have a calming or relaxing effect, while others may find them annoying or distracting.

Can I buy replacement parts for my solar powered bobblehead?

You can buy replacement parts for your solar powered bobblehead if the powered panel electric motor breaks down or wears out. You can also buy replacement batteries if needed.

Final Thoughts

Solar powered bobbleheads are a fun, environmentally friendly desk toy that will add some personality to your workspace.

Additionally, they make great gifts for friends or family, and they’re also a fun way to promote your business or brand.

Be sure to clean the solar panel regularly and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures to extend the lifespan of your Solar Powered Bobblehead.

How Do Solar Powered Bobbleheads Work? (And How to Make One)

How Do Solar Powered Bobbleheads Work?