DIY Cubes

Custom cubes can be folded from a simple template.

Creating a do-it-yourself paper cube is easy when you begin with a proper template. Once complete, paper cubes can be used for a number of purposes such as decoration and gift boxing. For educational purposes, students can create folded cubes of their own to increase their understanding of three-dimensional shapes. Any type of paper can be used for this do-it-yourself project. However, consider using colored construction paper to create sturdy, decorative cubes.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Ruler
• Pen
• Colored markers
• Scissors
• Tape

Instructions

1. Draw the cube template on your paper. A cube template consists of six squares in total. In a vertical line, draw four squares such that the bottom of each square meets the top of the subsequent square. Parallel to the second square from the top, draw two additional squares, one on each side. The finished template will be a T-shape created from the six squares. Use a fine-tip pen and ruler to draw precise, straight lines of equal lengths. This will make your cube proportionate.

2. Use colored markers to decorate the squares if you wish to have a decorated cube. It's easier to decorate the paper before you fold the cube, as this allows you to draw on a solid surface. For a fun game, decorate the squares with dice numerals or other simple symbols, such as hearts, diamonds, and smileys. Once you fold paper into a cube, you can then play rolling dice games using your decorations.

3. Use scissors to carefully cut out the entire template around its perimeter. Leave all six of the squares connected while trimming off the excess paper. When finished, you will be left with a T-shape consisting of six squares with dividing lines between them.

4. Fold the template into a cube. Fold the topmost square so that it stands vertical at a 90-degree angle. Likewise fold each of the side cubes so that they stand vertically. This creates the base and three sides of the cube. Fold the lower two squares upward such that they stand vertically; then fold the bottommost square an additional 90 degrees to create the top of the cube.

5. Apply a small piece of tape to each unsealed edge of the cube to keep it from unraveling. If you don't want the tape to be visible, unfold the topmost square from the cube and apply the tape to the inside of each edge. Place a final piece of tape on the underside of the top square; then refold it into the top of the cube and pinch the edge on which you placed the tape to seal it from the outside.

References

• Enchanted Learning: Make a Cube
• Korthalsaltes.com: Paper Model of a Cube