FAQ
Why do you recommend people build the Sphere rather than just the dome?
Because the Geodesic Sphere is beautiful and wonderful. You start with a pile of sticks and connectors, and you end up with a marvelously rigid and light structure. If you want a dome, you can always split the Sphere into 2 Domes.
You could charge more for this kit. Why don’t you?
Part of the joy of offering this kit is to make it possible for people to experience building a geodesic structure without money being a barrier. So we are trying to keep the cost down.
Is it easy to build?
Yes and No. Yes, it is easy because no special crafting skills or extreme levels of precision are needed. No, it is not necessarily easy, perhaps because our brains are not accustomed to thinking in triangular forms. We are used to making structures with 90-degree angles and braces. Building the geodesic structure opens you up to thinking in a new way.
How long does it take?
There are two parts to the construction process. Cutting the sticks and tubes and then assembly. The cutting process need not take a long time but for some people it does. The length of the assembly process kind of depends on how long it takes you to wrap you mind around the step-by-step instructions. Total time is commonly 2.5 hours.
What ages is the kit suitable for?
This kit is not suitable for any child who might injure themselves with a knife. But with adult supervision or participation younger children will enjoy making the Geodesic Sphere. It is a very good parent/child or Grandparent/Grandchild project.
Is any glue needed?
No glue is needed. Some people choose to glue structure together after they have completed it.
Will it last outdoors?
It will last for a time but is not designed for long term outdoor display. The sticks are made of bamboo and they do not quickly rot or warp. The vinyl tubing will degrade from UV light. Painting the parts will enable it to last longer outdoors.
What can it be used for?
With this kit you will create a beautiful and fascinating object which is not intended for any specific use. The uses people are finding for it is constantly growing and includes, Lamps and Lamp toppers, costume elements, Scaffold for climbing house plants, unusual hats, Christmas tree topper, etc. There is a growing body of photos in our Gallery section. Please send yours to contact@geodesicmind.com
What tools are needed?
The only essential tools are a knife, a ruler a pencil. And it could be any sharp knife even a kitchen knife. There are sticks and tubing to be cut. Some people have found that a wire cutter is a good way to quickly cut the sticks. A set of pliers can also be useful for making groves on the ends of the sticks, so they hold in the connectors more firmly. But this is not essential.
What languages are included in the instructions?
At present the instructions are only available in English. If you have skills in another language and would like to help us translate the instructions, please get in contact.
Is any glue needed?
No glue is needed. Some people choose to glue structure together after they have completed it.
Why do you like to display the Sphere on a stand so that the point in the middle of a Pentagon is pointing upwards from the center?
The beauty and symetry of the sphere shows up more naturally when one of the equatorial circles is parallele to the ground. It is easier to see that the structure in composed of 6 interlocking circles.
How can this be used in a costume?
The Sphere can be used as headgear or arm gear. The dome can be used on the front or back. We’d love to see how you use it! Send photos to contact@geodesicmind.com