Magnetic Tetris Playset

Ever wanted to play Tetris in real life?

Now you can! Using rare-earth magnets, these blocks can slide together and hold in place. Or print plastic clips if you don't want to buy magnets in bulk.

Instructions

You can choose to use this playset either with magnets or plastic clips. I find the magnets more satisfying, since you can slide the blocks around and they will stick in place. The plastic clips are cheaper and hold more securely, though, so if you're planning something crazy (like building a marriage proposal out of Tetris blocks) I suggest you use the clips. Also, use the clips if you're giving this to a small child, to avoid the danger of swallowing magnets--but keep in mind that the clips are probably a choking hazard, so maybe this isn't the best toy for a toddler.

Instructions for Magnets

You will need to buy a bunch of 1/8x1/8x1/2 inch rare-earth magnets.These magnets are dangerous of swallowed, so keep them away from small kids! There are a number of online sources for these magnets, and the one I used is: http://apexmagnets.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=14&products_id=85

Each block requires 10 magnets (except for the "O" which takes 8). You will also need magnets for the sides. Print a Magnet Holder for each magnet, preferably in the same color as the block. Print some extra Magnet Holders, since the only way to get a magnet out once installed in the block is to break the holder.

Put a magnet in each magnet holder. It's important that all magnets be installed the same way--if a magnet is installed backwards, the blocks will repel instead of attract. See the photo for how the holders go on to the magnets.

Slide each magnet + holder in to a block from the bottom until it snaps into place. It may take quite a bit of force to get it to go in all the way. To get a magnet out once installed, insert a flathead screwdriver (or your fingernail) between the block and the holder from the bottom and twist. This will break the holder and allow you to remove the magnet.

Instructions for Clips

If you want to attach the blocks with clips instead of magnets, print a bunch of the Clip pieces. The clips slide between pairs of blocks and hold them together securely. They do not snap in like the magnet holders, so they can be removed and reused (though depending on your printer, the clips may be fairly tight).