Vitascope

Load the supplied film strip, dim the lights, crank the handle and you've got your very own vintage film projector! You not only get the experience of a satisfying build, this kit actually works. Grab some popcorn and teach your digital-generation kids how movies used to get projected to the big screen.  

Vitascope is a retro inspired model that you build from laser-cut, wooden parts. Just pop the parts out and slot them together with the help of the detailed illustrated instructions. This is one of our more challenging builds, but if you're patient, even first-time builders will find it satisfying.

Build difficulty

• Advanced ★★★★★
• 183 pieces
• Typical build time: 8 hours

Contents

• Plywood sheets
• Film strip
• Generator & LED
• Various wooden, plastic & metal parts
• Illustrated instructions

Specifications

• Model Number: LK601
• Model weight: 800 grams
• Assembled size: 230 x 133 x 255 mm
• Box weight: 900 grams
• Box size: 320 x 235 x 52 mm

Warning

• Not a toy - not suitable for children 3 or under
• Includes small parts that could be a choking hazard

FAQs

What could possibly go wrong?
Although you're pretty much just punching out parts and putting them in the right places, all model building requires skill. If you're not careful, you could damage the parts during removal, lose parts or install parts the wrong way round. Some parts are delicate and can get damaged if you apply too much pressure. Constantly pushing the pieces into place can hurt your thumbs after a while, so it's best to build it in stages. As with any skill, the more practice and experience you have, the better the result. Take your time and enjoy the experience.

What is the recommended minimum age to build the Vitascope?
Officially it's 14, but this is a challenging kit. There are kids this age who could successfully build it, but if they haven't done something like this before, it would be better to start with a simpler model such as one of the Steampunk kits.

What is the recommended maximum age to build the Vitascope?
That depends on whether or not you have steady hands and good eyesight. The writing on the instructions and some parts is small, so sometimes a magnifying glass and/or a light can be handy.

Do any parts move?
Yes. The wind-up spring drives the wheels and chimney as demonstrated in the above video.

Is the Vitascope fragile?
If it topples over? Probably not. If it is dropped from a height? There's a good chance something will break.

Do I need to sand the parts?
The parts on some wooden model kits can be slightly rough on the edges and it's recommended that you give them a light sanding. However with most parts in this kit, this is unnecessary. Occasionally when you remove parts, they might not detach from the sheets cleanly, leaving a tiny burr. You can remove this using sandpaper.

Can I paint the Vitascope?
We think it looks cool in a raw finish, but one of the nice things about a kit is you can make it your own, so feel free to get creative. The Vitascope is made from plywood so you can apply just about anything including paint or lacquer. Our recommendation is to paint prior to assembly as getting a brush into every little section would be really fiddly once it's finished. The moving gears need to be carefully aligned and excess finish may prevent these parts from moving. If necessary, lightly sand your finish on parts that need adjusting.