Build a Watermill for Little Explorers

A simple, poetic nature activity to enjoy by the riverside

Looking for a creative, simple activity connected to nature? Why not build a small wooden watermill — perfect for spinning in a stream or next to a fountain. It’s a fun and playful project to do alone or with the family, and the perfect excuse to use your favorite Opinel knives!

What you’ll need

 

1. Saw a section of trunk

Find a small fir tree trunk with star-shaped side branches.
Saw off a section about 15 to 20 cm long. These branches will form the core of the watermill.

 

2. Remove the bark

Using their Opinel knife, children can peel the bark off the main trunk.
This is a fun and sensory step that prepares the wood for attaching the paddles.

3. Prepare the paddles

Cut pieces of thick fir bark — these will be used as the paddles.
You can prepare 4 to 6, shaped evenly to keep the watermill balanced.

4. Glue the paddles

Using wood glue, attach each paddle between the star-shaped branches of the trunk.
Use clothespins to hold the paddles in place while the glue dries (allow about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on humidity and temperature).

5. Create the water support

Once the glue is dry, remove the clothespins.
Stick two Y-shaped branches into the bottom of the stream, a few dozen centimeters apart, or find two small rocks close together.

Then place your watermill on these natural supports. It rests on the axis formed by the small branches of the trunk or on the rocks, and spins freely with the current.

Tips & Tricks:

  • The stronger the current, the faster the watermill will spin.

  • If the trunk is unbalanced, adjust the position or size of the paddles.

  • Use thick bark for better durability.

  • You can also decorate the wood with patterns engraved using the tip of the knife.

Share your watermill!

Have you made your watermill? Don’t forget to take a photo or a short video and share it with us! Mention @opinel_officiel and use the hashtag #MyOpinelWatermill.