Measure the diameter of the magnifying glass lens. Calculate the circumference and mark the length with a pencil on the file folder. Mark a 12-inch line perpendicular to one end of the circumference line. Use both lines to complete a rectangle and cut out of the file folder.
Set one magnifying glass on a flat surface and wrap the file folder around the lens. Mark and cut a small hole to push the handle through. Secure the lens to the file folder with masking tape and tape along the edge of tube where the file folder seams meet to create a cylinder.
Cut a one inch square in the tube below the handle at the opposite end of the cylinder for light admission.
Measure and cut a strip track in the tube on the side opposite from the handle. The strip should be just wide enough to insert the second lens, and should extend from one inch above the cylinder base to one inch below the magnifying lens at the top of the tube.
Insert the second magnifying glass and slide up and down in the track to ensure a tight fit.
Place the tube on a sheet of newspaper. View the newsprint through the top magnifying glass lens and slide the free-moving second lens up and down to focus the text to a sharp, clear image. Experiment by exchanging the newspaper with other viewing subjects.