How to Learn How to Do Cardboard Sculptures

Moving boxes is a good source of cardboard.

Encourage the recycling of found materials by learning how to make cardboard sculptures. Cardboard is essentially paper that folded and layered to form a versatile and strong material, according to The Exploratorium. Many sculptors experiment with different media forms or materials depending on the needs of their projects. Cardboard has the advantage of being plentiful and easy to find. To learn how to sculpt with it, you must take the time to explore its characteristics, particularly how it cuts, shapes and the best way to connect pieces.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard
• Utility knife
• Scissors
• Duct tape
• Clear tape
• Glue
• Different types of paint
• Paintbrushes
• Sketchpad
• Pencil

Instructions

1. 

   Cardboard's inner corrugation gives it extra thickness.

   Practice cutting into the cardboard with different tools. Score one side of a piece of cardboard with a utility knife cutting into its exterior layer. Cardboard usually has three layers. Two are exterior flat layers and it has an inner corrugated layer for added strength.

2. Bend the part you scored, which should cause the cardboard to stand up. Cut through the cardboard by cutting into the opposite side you cut into first. Test your scissors by cutting into the cardboard.

3. Pull up an edge of the cardboard with your fingers to remove the outside layer. Observe its weight and compare its characteristics with the complete cardboard.

4. Join two pieces of cardboard using duct tape. Tape another two sections with clear tape. Test which is stronger and which is aesthetically more pleasing. Glue two pieces of cardboard together. Wait until it dries and test its strength.

5. Paint the cardboard with various types of paint, such as watercolor, acrylic and tempura. Experiment with applying the paint with paintbrushes. Allow it to dry to observe the results. Consider using spray paint or different application tools, such as sponges and stamps.

6. Research other artists who have used cardboard as a medium, such as Chris Gilmour and Mark Langan. Observe how they use the material to accomplish their sculptures. Consider incorporating some of their ideas into your sculpture.

7. Draw a preliminary sketch for a cardboard sculpture on your sketchpad with a pencil. Consider the size, the final colors and views from all sides. Use your new knowledge of cardboard and how it cuts and how you can connect pieces to help you form ideas for a sculpture.

Tips & Warnings

• Experiment using cardboard boxes whole and cutting out shapes from them.

• Try adding water to the cardboard to see how it changes the material.

• In learning about and researching cardboard, try everything imaginable. However also be open to experimentation once you begin your sculpture. Many artworks are made my mistakes.

• Always cut away from your body when using a utility knife.

References

• Exploratorium: Materiality: Cardboard

Resources

• Chris Gilmour: Home
• Mark Langan: Home