How to Build a Cardboard Foldable Ladder
Make a folding ladder out of paper for a project or display. For example, set up the ladder inside of a Christmas window display. Decorate the ladder with garland and lights. Corrugated cardboard works best for this project because it contains multiple layers. The layers make the cardboard sturdier. You can find the corrugated cardboard at shipping supply stores or from some hardware stores. This type of ladder’s lifespan depends on how often you fold and unfold it. The more it’s moved, the shorter the lifespan.
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Things You'll Need
- Corrugated cardboard
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Hobby knife
- Paint
- 1-in. wide metal rectangle
- Packing tape
Instructions
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1
Draw a long ladder on the piece of cardboard. It does not matter how long the ladder is. Draw the rungs onto the ladder. Mark two horizontally lines on the two sides of the ladder where you want to fold it.
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2
Cut out the ladder with the hobby knife. Don't forget to remove the spaces between the rungs. Dispose of the extra cardboard.
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3
Paint the ladder, if desired. Wait for the paint to dry completely before continuing (six to 10 hours).
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4
Make a horizontal slice through the two marks you make on the ladder to mark the folding point. Do not push the knife completely through the cardboard. You only need to cut that first layer of paper. Note, if you do not wish to cut the cardboard and it is the thinner type of corrugated board, place the edge of the piece of metal where you want the ladder to fold. Hold the metal piece upright. Fold up the cardboard over the metal piece. Remove the metal piece. The metal piece helps make the crease even.
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5
Pick up the ladder. Slowly bend the ladder backwards so that the horizontal slices face outwards. Bend the cardboard back until the two pieces fold.
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6
Unfold the cardboard ladder. Place a piece of packing tape along the back of the folds for added support.
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References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
