Pathfinders Design and Technology

Pathfinders Design + Technology creates hands-on building kits that combine creative play with engineering and design learning. Designed by Derek Wulff, the kits are made primarily from natural, untreated wood sourced from Forest Stewardship Council-certified forests, alongside materials such as plywood and MDF in selected products. The brand aims to make projects that are engaging to build, functional, and attractive to display, with challenges that encourage experimentation and problem-solving.

Its range includes the STEAM Engineering Maker Set, which supports inventions and moving models, as well as kits inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s designs. These include working models of the Aerial Screw, Ornithopter, Bicycle, Bombard, Catapult, and Crossbow, offered in full-size and mini formats. Pathfinders also makes ancient siege-engine kits, such as a Battering Ram, and educational projects including the Sky Surfer airplane launcher and Gearbot hydraulic catapult. Projects introduce concepts such as aerodynamics, trajectory, gears, levers, and simple machines. The company provides downloadable project resources and instructions for selected kits and directs customers to local toy, hobby, and museum shops, as well as online retailers.