How to Make a Snow Sled with Junk

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A remarkable sled can be crafted from junk parts and scrap found in your basement or garage. If you live in an area where snowfall is limited, you may find yourself with an unexpected snow day and unable to get to the store before all the sleds are sold out. Don't waste money on a sled you only get to use a couple days a year--make one yourself with recycled junk and a little creativity.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Cardboard
Duct or packing tape
Rope
Utility knife
Scissors
Pencil

Step 1

Break down a cardboard box until you have a flat piece of cardboard. The larger the box, the bigger the sled you can fashion. Have the sled rider sit or lay down on the cardboard to determine the size of the sled and draw cutting lines with a pencil. Cardboard can be pieced together from several boxes if one box isn't big enough. Cut the sled shape out with a utility knife.

Step 2

Cover the bottom of the box with overlapping strips of duct tape or packing tape. Duct tape will make the box smoother as well as water proof.

Step 3

Punch two holes in the front corners of the sled with scissors. Thread a 3-foot section of rope through the holes so the rope loop is on the top. Tie knots on the rope on the bottom of the sled to secure it. This rope can be used for basic steering as well as a carry handle.

Tips & Warnings

Huge cardboard boxes can be obtained for free from retailers. Just call ahead and ask when you can pick up a box. You may need to go early in the morning, or late at night when they are stocking shelves.

Knock snow off the sled before storing it inside if you want it to last through multiple sessions. If snow is allowed to melt on the sled, the cardboard will fall apart.

The carry handle may not be strong enough to pull the sled with passengers--just use it to carry the sled alone.

Resources

Article Written By Denise Bertacchi

Denise Bertacchi is a freelance writer with a degree in journalism from Southeast Missouri State University. She is a St. Louis suburbanite who has written for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Boys' Life, Wisconsin Trails, and Missouri Life.

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