Updated for 2025!

The Warren Truss is a classic. Use this model Warren truss to see an excellent example of physics and engineering at work. This hands-on project will give you a functional bridge which uses a standard design allowing students to learn about basic engineering ideas.

Full scale blueprints and detailed building instructions show you every step of the building process from start to finish. Pictures are included for every step and helpful hints are sprinkled throughout the instructions. You will also receive a access to additional resources to learn more and get extra tips about this bridge design, the construction process, and testing/evaluation.

This model is the Basic Warren (Short). It is designed to be very simple to build and suitable for 3rd+ grade, although adult supervision is still required. This model has other variations that increase both the strength and complexity that are suitable for older ages.

Choose either the complete kit or just the digital download.

If you get the digital download, you will need to provide all the materials listed below.

Needed materials for Download Only:

• Color Printer
• Tape
• Glue
• Standard Popsicle Sticks (4.5" long, 3/8" wide, 1/16" thick)
• Heavy books (optional)

Contents of the full kit

The full kit contains everything you need to build this bridge, including:

• 100 popsicle sticks
• 1.25oz glue
• Masking tape
• Binder clips
• 1 sheet cardstock (color varies for optional roadbed)
• 2 sets of printed blueprints
• 1 set of printed building instructions
• Bridge assembly jigs**

*The strength of this bridge depends on many factors, including the quality of materials, precision of construction, the type of glue used, and the stability of loading. The strength listed is based on testing 10 bridges with our testing machine.

**Assembly jigs are customized to each bridge model and greater aid in the assembly process