What is the difference between the hand-crank version and the motor driven version?

The hand-crank version does not have a motor and moves by turning the crank forward with your hand. The motor driven version has a motor and usb charging port, as well as a power on/off button. The motor driven version can be turned on and left running for hours, where the hand-crank version only moves when it is being turned by your hand.

Who invented the flipbook machine?

The Flipbook Machine was invented by artist J. C. Fontanive in 2004 in London.

Why do the images animate?

The images animate because the pages flip over in a way that creates a type of shutter mechanism. Each image is held still for a fraction of a second then flips away so that the eye perceives it as a continuous moving image. Also called the Persistence Of Vision, the theory is that the images combine in the eye. If each image weren't held still for a moment, the result would simply be a blur.

Where should I put it?

Place the Flipbook Machine on a surface like a coffee table, desk, on a bookshelf, or hang it on the wall. It can also be placed in a window to be seen from afar. If combined with a solar charger, it could stay in the window indefinitely. 

How do I operate the piece?

Simply press the pushbutton on/off switch on the back of the work to operate. There are charging lights on the back to indicate the amount of charge left.

Does it come with a micro USB cord?

Yes it comes with a short micro USB cord.

Will it rust?

No, it's made from stainless steel and aluminum which won't rust.

Does it come in a box?

Yes, it comes in its own storage box, then is packed in another shipping box.

How long does the battery last?

Under normal usage conditions the piece should last many weeks without needing to be recharged. If kept on constantly the battery would last about 3 days.

How do I charge it?

The piece will run for approximately 3 days from one charge. Easily recharge with the micro USB cord and your own laptop, portable power bank, or wall plug. Charging time takes approximately 3 hours. Can also be charged by sunlight, through a solar USB charger. 

Do you sell a USB solar charger?

We don't sell the solar charger, but you can easily find them online. 

Does it have a cord?

No, the piece is cordless. The piece does not need a cord, but if you wanted to have the USB cord constantly plugged in, for instance if it is permanently on a shelf, you could.

What is the lifespan of the piece?

The box is made from stainless steel which will never rust. The mechanism rides on high quality sealed ball bearings that are greased for life. There is very little wear, so the piece can be enjoyed for many years to come without worry. It comes with a 1-year manufacturing warranty which you can find here: Shipping & Returns. It also has lifetime customer service. 

What if I drop it and damage the papers?

If the papers are damaged, the piece can be returned for a new paper set replacement. There is a flat fee for replacing the papers. Papers cannot be replaced individually, but only as a whole set. Contact info@flipbookmachine for details. 

How loud is it?

The paper flipping makes a low noise that is barely noticed in normal room conditions.

Will the papers bend?

The papers may bend slightly due to changing humidity conditions, which is normal.  

Can I touch the papers?

Do not touch papers or place fingers near papers to avoid fingerprints and damage. Please keep fingers away front of machine. It is a pinching hazard, and can damage the papers. 

How do I hang it on the wall? 

Use a regular sized drywall screw or similar screw with a larger head. Drill screw into wall so that the head sticks out from the wall about 3/16 in - 1/4 in. This seems very tight but it pins the work flush against the wall, otherwise it may hang off the wall with a slight gap. Screw should not stick out from the wall more than 1/2 inch - if so it may touch and tarnish the papers inside the back of the work.

How do I charge it if it's on the wall?

Taking it on and off the wall is simple, but without taking it off the wall, a portable power bank is an easy way: plug in and place the power bank on top of the work. This way the work does not need to be removed from the wall.