Marble Run + Art Easel: How to Set Up Two-Way Play
By Seriously fun hands-on learning for curious kids of all ages | KiwiCo | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to switch the KiwiCo Marble Run + Art Easel between engineering and art play, with setup steps and marble run building ideas for kids.
Quick answer
Set up the Marble Run + Art Easel by first attaching the wood pegboard and arranging the 35 marble run pieces into a working track, then flip to the reversible artboard for drawing. Keep the marble pieces stored when not in use so the easel converts quickly between engineering and art.
Why the two-way design changes setup
Because the same kid-sized frame holds both a pegboard and a reversible artboard, you are not managing two separate pieces of furniture. That saves space, but it also means the order of setup matters: build the marble run first while the pegboard is exposed, then switch to the art side without losing small pieces.
The built-in paint cups and art tray are part of the artboard, so you do not need to add separate containers. Plan for a quick transition by keeping marbles in a bowl or bag during art time.
What to check before the first build
The catalog lists 35 marble run pieces and a wood pegboard, but it does not specify a recommended age or a maximum number of simultaneous builders. Treat the first session as a trial: start with a simple track and watch how your child handles the pieces.
A flat, stable surface helps the easel stay upright during marble play. If you plan to move it between rooms, check that the frame is light enough for your child to help carry it.
Setup steps for two-way play
- Unpack and sort the marble run pieces: Empty all 35 marble run pieces onto a tray or bowl and separate them by shape. Count them once so you can spot missing pieces later. Common mistake: mixing marbles with art supplies, which makes cleanup harder. Keep a small bowl for marbles during art sessions.
- Attach the wood pegboard to the easel frame: Secure the pegboard in the upright position according to the included instructions. Check that it sits flush and does not wobble. Common mistake: forcing the pegboard if it resists—recheck alignment before pushing. A gentle shake test confirms the pegboard is seated.
- Build a starter marble run: Begin with a simple zigzag using a few pieces, then test with one marble. Add pieces one at a time so you can see where the marble slows or falls off. Common mistake: building the entire track before testing, which makes it hard to find the problem section. Test after every three or four pieces added.
- Switch to the art studio: Remove all marbles and store them in the bowl. Reverse the artboard so the drawing surface faces out, then fill the built-in paint cups and place supplies in the art tray. Common mistake: leaving marbles on the tray, which can roll into paint. Do a marble sweep before flipping the board.
- Reset for the next marble session: After art time, wipe the artboard dry and reverse it back to the pegboard side. Return the marble pieces to their tray. Common mistake: storing the easel with paint in the cups, which can spill when the board is flipped. Empty and rinse paint cups before reversing.
Product facts
- Marble Run + Art Easel | KiwiCo: Includes a convertible kid-sized easel with a wood pegboard and 35 marble run pieces. The piece count gives you a finite set to organize, so you can build a complete track and still have spares for experimentation.
Marble Run + Art Easel | KiwiCo - Marble Run + Art Easel | KiwiCo: Features a reversible artboard with built-in paint cups and an art tray. The built-in cups and tray mean you can switch from marble play to painting without hunting for separate supplies.