Reality Daydream

The Dream is Free, The Hustle Sold Separately

Gumball Plinko Race

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I’m guessing you didn’t arrive here after Googling “Gumball Plinko Race” tutorial. But here we are! This is our take on a fun Plinko or pinball game, with a racing element! And the ultimate twist is that it’s gumballs! It doesn’t quite feel right to call it a DIY gumball machine.

Ironically, we started out planning to build a DIY Candy Dispenser as a homemade Christmas gift, and hubby started drawing it up with more and more detail. And this is what we arrived at. I’m not mad!

*This post is sponsored by our friends at Kreg. Thank you for supporting the fabulous brands that make Reality Daydream possible!*

Download the building plans, and cut all the boards to size. We used our Kreg Adaptive Cutting System Saw + Guide Track Kit to keep things simple. This is a great track saw with 12-amp, 120-volt motor, and anti-kickback control. We love how we can get precise cuts without having to use the tablesaw.

Cut the rabbits for the sides with a router or table saw, drill the 1 1/2″ diameter hole in the Bottom and a 1″ hole in the sides, then test fit the dowel to make sure it will slide comfortably through the side holes. Chamfer the bottom hole with a router.

We used the Kreg Pocket Hole-Jig 720PRO to make quick work of the pocket holes to attach the sides to the bottom. Joining boards has never been easier! I love that this model automatically clamps and adjusts to the proper material thickness. Efficiency at its finest!

Layout all the holes and the grooves for the Divider, Pins, and Ramps. Cut with a plunger router.

Cut the Ramps & Pins. We used a oscillating drum sander to form the contour in the Top Ramps, then we test fit all the pieces.

Layout, then drill the counterbores and holes into the 1″ dowel. Chamfer the 5/8″ diameter holes.

Once you are satisfied with the fitment of everything clamp and screw the back to the frame, then hammer the pegs and ramps into their location. (We decided to finish all the pieces before installing the pegs and ramps.

Lastly, we cut and installed the acrylic cover and lid.

How much do you love it!

Tap below to watch the video and see the actual gumball race in action! Hearing the sound of all those little gumballs hitting the little dowels is amazing!

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Attention: Almost any do-it-yourself project involves risk of some sort. Your tools, materials, and skills will vary, as will the conditions at your project site. Reality Daydream has made every effort to be complete and accurate in the instructions of the plans on this website. Reality Daydream will not assume any responsibility or liability for damages or losses sustained or incurred in the course of your project or in the use of the item you create. Always follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions in the use of tools, check and follow your local building codes, and observe all commonly accepted safety precautions.