DIY Solar System Mobile Instructions

I've made a Stylized Solar System in the past of all the planets in our solar system, in different stylized patterns. Now I have created a printable version that can hang as a mobile display, so that anyone can create a little orrery or hanging solar system on their own. It can hang in any room you want, though it would be perfect for a baby room that is space-themed, planet-themed, or solar system-themed.

This printable solar system mobile is in my Etsy store available for download, where you can create your own mobile with the stylized planets I designed. Below are the steps to follow to create one yourself.

You will need:

1. Metal hoop

2. 80 in. of thick string

3. White thread

4. Needle

5. Color printer

6. Cardstock paper

7. Scissors

Step 1: Cut 80 inches of thick string and then cut into two equal halves (40 inches each).

Step 2: Center the metal hoop over one of the strings, and tie the string across its diameter

Step 3: Repeat with the second string, and tie around the center of the first string to create a centerpoint.

Step 4: Tie together the ends of the strings into one point above the hoop, so that it will be balanced when hung.

Step 5: Tie to a keychain loop (or similar) to hang from.

Step 6: Cut 9 strips of white thread, starting at 3 inches long for the Sun and Mercury. Make each subsequent string 1 inch longer for varying heights.

Step 7: Print the planets double-sided on white cardstock paper, and cut out within the colored circle so no white is visible.

Step 8: Using the needle, poke a hole in the top of the planets large enough for the thread to fit through.

Step 9: Tie the thread through the hole in each planet, starting with the shortest thread. The order of the planets are: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, (optional: Pluto).

Step 10: Tie the thread to the metal hoop.

Step 11: Tie the sun to the centerpoint where the thick string is tied. Separate the planets so that they are equally spaced and don’t tangle, and lift the mobile by the top hanger.

Step 12: Hang and enjoy!