Tools

Phillips Screwdriver

Pliers or 3/8” Wrench/Nut Driver

3D Pinter

Laser Cutter

Materials

Birch plywood

3D printer filament

1"x3" pine lumber

1/2" dowels

nuts, bolts, screws

see complete parts list, build guides, and 3D models on the DIY Pinball page

Project details

Start with a prototyping grid playfield and add your own features like bumpers, ramps, lights and sounds. Once your design is play-tested, switch to a solid playfield and permanently install features, add a theme, graphics, and decorations to bring your game to life.

This is a great starter project for Makers in and out of the classroom: laser-cut the plywood playfield; use shop tools to cut lumber and assemble the base; 3D print your own set of flippers and buttons; design and fabricate any number of creative obstacles, features and decorations; code your own scoring, sounds, lights and motion; express yourself through the theme for your machine; collaborate with others for 2-player mode.