IntroBottle BasicsTool BoxBuilding BlocksReference Links
Column InvestigationsHanging Bottle InvestigationsHome
Tool Box

These tools will enable you to construct any of the investigation columns on this site. Some of these items are not critical - you do not need to use a razor to start bottle cuts, for example, or a tapered reamer to enlarge holes - but they can make construction easier.

  • Box top or drawer to stabilize bottle while making cutting lines
  • Marker, wax pencil or crayon for drawing cutting lines
  • Cutting blade or utility knife to start cut
  • Scissors to cut bottle
  • "Poke," darning needle or diaper pin to make air holes
  • Awl to make holes in bottle caps and film cans
  • Tapered reamer for enlarging holes
  • Paper punch for making large holes in thin plastic
  • Clear waterproof postal or bookbinding tape to join columns
  • Silicone sealant to waterproof joints
  • Clothes line, polyester or nylon craft cording
  • Small inexpensive electric soldering iron
  • Hair dryer
  • Plant Light House
National Science Foundation   Bottle Biology, an instructional materials development program, was funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation administered by the University of Wisconsin-Madison.   Wisconsin Fast Plants