How to Make 3D Glasses With Red and Cyan

Make 3D glasses to view special commercials and broadcasts.

3D movies and television shows are on the rise, as of January 2011. There are several kinds of glasses that allow you to view television shows and movies in 3D, and you can make at least one of these kinds at home. The traditional red and cyan 3D glasses will allow you to watch special Super Bowl commercials and other unique broadcasts. Use a few basic materials to complete this project in time for the next 3D broadcast.

Things You'll Need

• Red cellophane
• Cyan cellophane
• Posterboard
• Scissors
• Glue
• Old eyeglasses
• Red marker
• Blue marker
• Piece of clear sturdy plastic

Instructions

1. Print a 3D glasses template, such as the one found on Paper Project's website (see Resources). Cut the template out from posterboard, and cut out the eyeholes.

2. Place red cellophane in the left eye hole and cyan cellophane in the right eye hole. You can glue or tape the cellophane in place.

3. Use old eyeglasses to create more sturdy 3D glasses. Remove the clear lenses from the glasses and color them with the appropriate marker---red for the left eye lens and cyan for the right eye lens.

4. Replace the lenses in the eyeglasses and enjoy the 3D broadcast.

Tips & Warnings

• This is a great project for children, but make sure only the adults use the scissors.

References

• American Paper Optics: How Do 3D Glasses Work?
• Digital Inspiration: How to Make 3D Glasses at Home in 10 Seconds
• NASA: How Does 3D Work?

Resources

• Paper Project: Make Your Own 3D Glasses