DIY Sprinkler

Summer is almost upon us and the kids are in desperate need of some outdoor toys to keep them busy. Apparently, the sand and water table, slide, rocking horse, bubbles and chalk just aren't cutting it anymore. To save us from this wicked heat and humidity that will surely hit us this summer, my husband made this DIY sprinkler for the kids.

Here are the instructions:

Step 1: Get your Supplies

2 ten foot lengths of PVC
3 end caps
1 threaded female hose connector (slip fit)
2 elbow joints (90 degree)
2 T connections
1 pack quarter circle mister jets (12 count)

Step 2: Get your Tools

measuring device
pen or pencil
saw
PVC cement
drill
5/32" drill bit

Step 3: Cut Pipes

You will need the following sections and sizes:

2 at 5 feet
1 at 4 feet
4 at 18 inches

Cut one of the 10' lengths in half so that you have two 5' sections.

Then, cut a 4' section from the second one. Cut the remaining 6' section in half and then each of the 3' sections in half.

Step 4: Make a Center Line

You want all the misters pointing more or less in the same direction, so start out by making a center line on the three longest pieces of pipe. Hold two pieces of pipe next to one another and use one as a guide to mark the other.

Step 5: Mark Locations for Misters

Measure 9" from the end of each pipe, mark it, and then mark three more locations at 10" intervals. This will center the four misters along the top, and provide nice coverage on the sides.

Step 6: Drill Holes

A 5/32" hole was perfect for the mister jets, but check yours before drilling holes. The mister jets have threads and a taper that increases as they go in. The bit should leave a hole that allows the bottom to slide in easily, but engages the threads where they start. With the right combination you'll need to bear down to get the first threads to "bite", but after the first or second turn they'll cut their own threads into the pipe for a tight fit.

Step 7: Assemble Upright Pipes

Make sure there are no PVC chips or other debris in the pipes before assembly. Fit the drilled pipes together to form a "U" shape with all the drilled holes facing up. The drilled holes on the side pieces should be closest to the end with elbow joint (near cross piece). Once you're satisfied glue up the "U", making sure the holes stay facing up.

Step 8: Screw in Mister Jets

Screw the mister jets into the holes. You'll need to bear down at first to get the mister jet threads to catch, but after a turn or two they'll burrow into the pipe just fine. When you get down to the last turn or so, align the jet so it faces inwards. Angle the jets near the corners towards the center.

Step 9: Glue Base

Now that the "U" is glued up and has the misters are installed, we need a base to stand it up on. Check the fit of all your parts and glue them up.

Step 10: Attach Base

Assemble the "U" and the base without glue. Make sure the base pieces are parallel with each other, and perpendicular to the plane of the "U".

Step 11: Ready Set Go!!!

Let the glue dry before testing. Turn the water on low enough that you get a little spray from all the misters. Check and adjust the direction of the misters to direct the water towards the center. Turn it on full and look for leaks around the base of the misters. If you find one, you can use a wrap of teflon tape around the base of the mister to stop it.

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