How to Build a Model of a 3 Dimensional Pyramid
Here is a quick and easy way to build an impressive model of a pyramid in 3D. Although we're using insulating foam instead of stone blocks, the method employed here is remarkably similar to those used by the original pyramid builders. The end result is a ziggurat, the stepped pyramids found throughout the world (the Egyptians placed a layer of limestone sheets on their pyramids to get those smooth sides). With just a few simple tools and some insulating foam, found at a home improvement store, you, too, can have your own pyramid.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Insulating foam, one inch thick
- White glue
- Sharp hobby knife
- Straight-edged ruler
- Pencil
Instructions
-
-
1
Draw a one 12 inch by 12 inch square onto the foam sheet. This will be the base of the pyramid. Make a big "X" in the center by connecting each set of opposing corners with a line drawn across the middle of the square to the opposite corner.
-
2
Make another square, but this one should be 10 inches by 10 inches. Connect the corners of this square to one another by drawing lines between them.
-
-
3
Use the straight edge and ruler to draw several more squares in diminishing outside edges, 8 inches, 6 inches, 4 inches, 2 inches, and 1 inch. Draw an "X" in the center of each square by connecting the corners with each other.
-
4
Use the hobby knife to carefully cut each of the squares from the foam sheet.
-
5
Stack the squares in order on top of one another, beginning with the 12 inch on the bottom and the 1 inch on the top. Align the lines on each square with those on the square below it -- this will make sure that the slope on each side remains equal. Glue each layer to the square below it.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
You can build any sized pyramid you like by adjusting the size of the base piece. The slope is adjusted by increasing or decreasing the size of the subsequent layers: the larger the layer the steeper the slope.
The finished pyramid is a ziggurat. An Egyptian style can be achieved by gluing sheets of card stock, cut to size, on each side of the pyramid. Don't forget to detail the card stock with drawn-on stone lines.
Water-based paints can be used to color and detail your finished pyramid. You might also carve doors and other details into the foam.
To make a hollow pyramid, one with an interior you can detail, cut centers out of the squares, leaving an inch and a half around the outside, before you glue them together.
Be certain to use water-based glues and paints. Solvent-based glues and paints will attack and damage the foam.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
