How to Measure Slot Cutouts

Small scissors and razor blades are used to cut precise dimensions.

Slot cutouts are used as an attachment tool in many papercraft designs. A tab is often bent and inserted into a slot cutout to secure a section without adhesives. Small slots are designed to be hidden once they are filled with a tab of matching dimensions. Cutouts are usually outlined or defined by specific dimensions for a close fit with their paper tab. Measure slot cutouts prior to assembly to ensure a secure and aesthetically pleasing model.

Things You'll Need

• Ruler

Instructions

1. Lay the ruler down along the longest side of the slot cutout. Record the length of the slot in inches, fractions of inches or centimeters. Measure and record the length of the parallel long side if it is not identical to the first.

2. Move the ruler so the edge is aligned with the adjacent short side of the slot. Record the width of the slot in inches, fractions of inches or centimeters. Measure and record the length of the parallel short side if it is not identical to the first.

3. Insert the tab into the slot cutout to verify the measurements are correct. Measure the dimensions of the tab and the slot if the two do not fit together snugly. Most tab and cutout pairs have the same dimensions so there is pressure and friction to hold the assembly.

Tips & Warnings

• Metal caliper measuring tools are useful when measuring small slot cutouts. The calipers are spread to the dimensions of the slot so a precise reading can be taken.

• Move slowly and carefully around the slot cutout to avoid tearing it or causing a paper cut.

References

• Papercraft Museum: Advanced Tutorial

Resources

• Papercrafty: 6 Tips to Improve Your Papercraft