How to Create Playful Characters with Makedo Googlies

Quick answer

Makedo Googlies are reversible black-and-white spheres that attach with Scru-Dots to instantly give any cardboard build a playful face. The key is planning the eye placement and using the right Scru-Dot size for a secure hold.

Step-by-step guide: Adding Googlies to your cardboard build

1. Plan the face layout: Sketch the character's face on paper or directly on the cardboard using a pencil. Mark where the eyes will go, keeping them level and evenly spaced. For a friendly look, place the eyes lower on the face; for a surprised expression, place them higher. A common mistake is placing eyes too close together or at different heights, which can make the character look cross-eyed or unbalanced.
2. Pilot holes for Scru-Dots: Use a Makedo Scru or a sharp tool to make a small hole at each eye mark. The hole should be just big enough to fit the Scru-Dot's post through. If the cardboard is thick (like a corrugated box), you may need to wiggle the Scru to widen the hole slightly. If the hole is too small, the Scru-Dot won't seat flush; if it's too large, the Googly may wobble. Test on a scrap piece first.
3. Attach the Googlies: Insert the Scru-Dot post through the hole from the back of the cardboard, then press the Googly sphere onto the post from the front. Push firmly until the sphere clicks into place. Repeat for the second eye. The Googlies will now rotate freely but stay securely attached. Make sure the Scru-Dot is fully seated against the cardboard back before pressing on the Googly, or it may pop off during play.
4. Add extra character details: Use other Makedo Deco-Props like Blobbies or Re-Run to add ears, noses, or hair. You can also draw on mouths, eyebrows, or freckles with markers. The Googlies are reusable, so you can swap them between builds as your child's imagination changes. Avoid using permanent glue on the Googlies if you want to reuse them later. Stickers or washable markers are better for temporary features.

Product details

• Makedo Deco-Props | Googlies: Googlies are reversible spheres in black and white that attach with colour-matched Scru-Dots for a seamless finish. You can flip them to change the character's mood or expression without removing or replacing anything.