Is Robot building difficult?

Robot Menu

Cellotape - check! Cardboard - check! String - Check! When I was a kid these were the things I made my robots with. I remember it now - I had my room lined with the cardboard creations that I'd cooked up in my robotics lab. Of course they didn't actually do anything. In fact, they had a tough time fighting the natural forces of gravity. But when you're a kid these things don't matter. I was a fully fledged robot builder.

Then there was lego. Even back in the 70's and 80's there wasn't much you couldn't hammer together with a box of lego and a bit of imagination. Of course the bits we had to work with back then where chunky as hell.

And all the robots I built tended to look... well, blocky. It's worth pointing out that some of the lego robotics kits today are just amazing.

But if you're looking to build your own robot today, there's really a world of opportunity out there.

How difficult is robot building? Making your own robots really isn't all that hard. Whatever level of experience you're at, there is something you can do. And the benefits are fantastic. I can't stress enough how rewarding it is to work through a set of instructions and plans and to gradually create your own working robot. You'll learn a lot about engineering, electronics, programming, and much more.

There are all kinds of robot builder type fans out there. Some build up robot models from kits. These might have some moving / working parts, or they could just literally be for show - like the airfix type planes. Or they might work from parts they collect from scarp yards, skips and packaging and make their own that way. There are a number of fans who make their own movie robots this way.

One of the best ways to get into robot building is to work with a kit. Robot kits come in all shapes and sizes but they are basically the same. You get a set of plans which act as your guide to putting the robot together. This is a lot like lego actually! So if you've ever made anything from lego or mechano you'll be right at home here.

You can choose a very simple non soldering type robot (which have some amazing functionality - don't think they're the 'dumbed down' robots!) Or you can opt for one of the more advanced kits. If you're new to robotics, I'd advise you to tackle something cheaper and simple. Building robots is not difficult, but it makes sense to take things gradually.

All that remains to be said is to have a GREAT time building your robot. Above all this is meant to be fun. Take your time, follow the plans carefully, and you'll have a great time making your own robots.

Beginner Robot Kits
This is the place to start if you're new to robot building. You can get some good, low cost kits here which are a lot of fun to build.

Intermediate Robot Kits
Some really good kits here for anyone who has mastered the basics of robot building and wants to explore further. I recommend the Moon Walker 2 kit.

Advanced Robot Kits
So, you're looking for a bit of a challenge? Well you'll find it here. There's a range of kits here including some really good walking robots.