How to Make Cardboard Cut-Outs

Plain cardboard material is the beginning of a fun craft project.

Many crafters use cardboard cut-outs for different activities: party decorations, children's crafts or a photo shoot. The simple concept allows the user to produce life-size recreations of any image they can translate to a transparency. Children can also join in on the fun and decorate an image of their favorite cartoon characters. Make cardboard cut-outs for an activity that the whole family can enjoy.

Things You'll Need

• Flat sheet of cardboard, any size
• Box cutter
• Projector
• Transparency paper with image
• Marker
• Acrylic paint
• Paint brushes
• Bowl of water
• Working surface
• Newspaper
• Masking tape

Instructions

Trace the Image Using a Projector

1. Set up the projector so that the light projects onto your work surface. Place the transparency on the screen--adjust the angle and size as needed.

2. Place the projected image over the cardboard. Focus the image so that all of its details can be seen.

3. Use a marker to trace the image. Keep the trace simple and wide enough to paint with a paint brush. Try not to move the cardboard as you are tracing the image; tape the cardboard on your work surface with masking tape if needed. Remove the masking tape carefully after you finish tracing the image.

Cut the Cardboard

1. Place the cardboard on a work surface that you don't mind scratching. Tape the corners of the cardboard to the work surface with masking tape to keep it stable.

2. Take the box cutter and place it slightly outside of the marker line. Hold the cardboard down with the other hand. Place your hand to the side of the box cutter at least 1 inch away to avoid injury. Push the box cutter into the cardboard and move it along the shape of the image. Cut out small areas slowly with the tip of the box cutter to avoid cutting out too much detail.

3. Remove the masking tape and pull the extra cardboard from the image. Use the box cutter to cut away areas that were not cut completely the first time around.

Paint the Cut-Out

1. Put newspaper on your work surface. Lay the cut-out flat on your work surface.

2. Paint the cut-out using acrylic paint. Wait for the first layer of paint to dry before adding additional layers or details. Clean the paint brushes thoroughly with water before using a different color of paint.

3. Place the cut-out in a well-ventilated area and allow it to dry before use.

References

• Themed Birthday Party Ideas: How to Make Inexpensive High Quality Cardboard Cutouts for Your Child's Birthday Party