Tips For Building Toothpick Bridges

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By Masterman535


How to Build a Toothpick Bridge

So, for one reason or another, you're here to learn how to build a toothpick bridge.  The process is pretty simple, but you must do it correctly!!  Many people will attempt to do it with no understanding of how they need to make it, and this will result in a flimsy bridge.  So, here are some basic tips. 

Build a Support Structure

There are many possible designs for a bridge, but this kind of bridge is one of the most sturdy. The continually subdivided reinforcement pieces divide the weight more evenly, and that allows for a more stable bridge.  Also, make sure to use a group of toothpicks stuck togeteher.  if you only use a single toothpick for each support beam, it won't hold up very well.

From http://www.toothpickdesign.com
From http://www.toothpickdesign.com

Basic Tips

  1. Plan before you build. Don't haphazardly start throwing toothpicks together. Instead have a diagram of how you want it to look beforehand.

  2. Know your limits. Most of the time you'll be given a limited number of toothpicks. You have to make sure you don't run out of them along the way. Plan out how many toothpicks will be used in each place.

  3. Don't be afraid to be creative! SOMETHING will go wrong when you build your toothpick bridge. You'll have to improvise often if you want to succeed.

  4. Wet glue is not sticky enough!! Wait till the first layer of glue is dry before continuing to add on to your bridge

  5. The spacing between the intersections of toothpicks greatly affects the strength of your toothpick bridge. Build it as uniform and thick as possible.

  6. Make sure your toothpick isnt too brittle. Bent it a little to make sure it doesnt snap instantly.

  7. Elmer's glue is pretty inferior for this. If you have the ability to bring better glue, you definately should.

  8. You should know when the maximum weight is reached. The bridge will start to bend before it breaks. When bending begins, you should avoid putting on any more weight, as that will likely cause it to snap.

These tips should definately do a lot of good, and give you a leg up if you're in any sort of competition.

Amazing Toothpick Bridges

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Comments

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WHOA  says:
11 months ago

that helped so much!

taylor  says:
7 months ago

you did good

Dorito diva  says:
2 months ago

Wow! Thanks a million!

Matthew Mullins  says:
2 weeks ago

I like this bridge because im not straight.

Ian  says:
2 weeks ago

Omg so amazing

Amy  says:
10 days ago

ahhhhh!!! ;)

Amy  says:
10 days ago

ahhhhh!!! ;)

school work   says:
3 days ago

thanks for the tips! so much help!

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