How does an elevator move up and down inside a building? Real elevators use a motor that turns a spool. A steel cable connects the spool to the car. A counterweight balances the car so the motor does less work. You build a small version on a board with six spindles (thread reels) attached by nails. A cardboard box serves as the elevator car. Strings loop through the spindles to connect the car and a small counterweight. Turn spool number two with your fingers. The elevator car moves up or down depending on which way you turn it.