But like every skill, practice makes perfect, and after a few attempts (or perhaps, many attempts), you’ll be creating stunning Instagram-worthy geometric art.

Spirograph Deluxe Set – PlayMonster UK Spirograph Deluxe Set – PlayMonster UK

This is because the number of teeth on the cog, and the number of teeth on the hole, are both (hopefully) finite whole numbers, so there’s only a finite number of places and orientations the cog can be in. If you want to relieve the Spirograph experience of yesteryear, then this Spirograph Retro Deluxe Set is an exact reproduction of the original, right down to the throwback packaging and retro graphics.So, while the digital Spirograph apps don’t look like the classic Spirograph, they are the same thing. The topmost compartment (more like a tray) is where the paper sits, and the one underneath that is for the spare gears. Eventually, you’ll end up with the pen in the same spot you started with, even if it takes a lot of goes around the circle. The size of the wheel determines the scope of the design — whether it will have tight, intricate lines or large, swooping curves. This inspired me to dig a little deeper into how this thing works, and what kind of shapes you can make with it.

Spirograph Deluxe Set | Smyths Toys UK

Whether you want a small Spirograph set to slip in your bag and take on holiday, or a Spirograph set with all the bells and whistles – we’ve got you covered. I'm sure we all remember how infuriating it was as kids to have a Spirograph cog jump or the ring move when creating our masterpieces – thankfully, there is a solution for today's young budding artists. We love this toy – and in this article, we take you through all the official Spirograph sets that are in production today.

If you’re not familiar, the apparatus involves a plastic cog, placed inside a circular hole with teeth, which has holes in it to place a pen/pencil through. A carrying case keeps everything together and allows children to take the fun to school or a friend’s house. Spirographs require a certain degree of fine motor skill that children under the age of six are often lacking.