How to Make a Wooden Pyramid

Make a wooden pyramid with four equal triangles like the Great Pyramid at Giza.

Pyramids capture the imagination, representing the achievement of the ancient Egyptians and carrying a reputation for mathematical precision and mystical significance. The Great Pyramid at Giza stands as of the most frequently replicated pyramids. This pyramid served as the tomb of the Pharaoh Khufu, and still retains a remnant of its limestone facing at its apex. Equilateral triangles--triangles with equal sides--form the faces of pyramids formed on a square base modeled on the Egyptian pyramids. Print scale model pyramid patterns available from websites or draw your own. Create a wooden pyramid by following guidelines to form the pyramid shape.

Things You'll Need

• Thin wood such as balsa wood or veneer in panels large enough for the pyramid faces
• Refinishing oil in desired wood finish color
• Soft rag
• Ruler or yardstick
• Pencil
• Utility knife with a new blade
• Wood glue from a hardware store or craft store

Instructions

1. Squirt refinishing oil the size of a quarter on a rag. Stroke the refinishing oil on the wood panels.

2. Use a ruler to create the triangles. For example, make pyramid faces 12 inches by 12 inches by drawing four triangles with 12-inch sides.

3. Draw a square with sides the same length as the triangle, if you want a base.

4. Cut the wood for the wooden pyramid along the lines with a utility knife.

5. Apply glue along one edge of two different triangles. Press the edges together. Repeat with each set of triangles to form the pyramid.

6. Apply glue at the edge of the square, if you want to put the pyramid on a base. Center the pyramid over the square. Gently press the pyramid down on the square.

Tips & Warnings

• Select veneer in the desired wood finish for the wooden pyramid and skip the refinishing oil step if desire. Use golden oak refinishing oil for a dark blond balsa wood pyramid. Open the windows before applying refinishing oil.

• Place the pyramid in a sand tray to create a desert scene. If you want to place the pyramid over objects or use it as a hiding place, don't glue it to a base.

• .

• Keep utility knives out of reach of children. Change the blade if the knife's cutting ability falters. Keep fingers out of the knife's path.

References

• Gijs Korthals Altes: Model Pyramids (pattern)
• PBS: NOVA: Pyramids: Scale Model

Resources

• Cleave Books: Pyramid Calculator