Making a human skeleton out of cardboard can be a fun project. You can try it when teaching kids about the human skeletal system or when decorating for Halloween. The human skeleton is made up of 206 bones that all work together forming the frame of our bodies.
Things You'll Need
Cardboard
Printer
Markers
Scissors
Paper
Computer
Round-Head Paper Fasteners
Hole Punch
Glue Stick
Step 1
Print a skeleton outline using a computer, a printer and standard printer paper. (There is a link to a skeleton printout under Resources.) If you want a larger skeleton or would like to make your own, draw one using the printout as a guide.
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Step 2
Glue the paper drawing to a piece of cardboard. You can use any type of glue for this, but glue sticks work best. Let stand for one to two hours to dry.
Step 3
Cut out the different bones. You do not need to cut out each bone, but try to make at least 10 pieces. Start with the skull, ribs, pelvis, humerus, radius and ulna, femur, tibia, hands and feet. If you wish to make more pieces by cutting out the individual phalanges and vertebrae you can.
Step 4
Punch holes where all of the joints go. Holes should go at the knees, elbows, ankles, wrists, neck and anyplace else where you will need to attach the bones.
Step 5
Attach the bones at the joints with paper fasteners. If you are unsure of where the bones go, refer to the printout as a guide.
Tip
If you are making this skeleton as an educational tool, try writing the names of the bones on the back of the cutouts and have children identify them while working on the project.
Warning
Always closely supervise children who are working with scissors.