Make digital papercraft
Use simple computer templates to design and print papercraft models, then cut, fold, and glue paper shapes to build 3D characters.
About this activity
Use simple computer templates to design and print papercraft models, then cut, fold, and glue paper shapes to build 3D characters.
What you need
Step by step
- 1
Step 1
Find a simple papercraft character template you like on a website or template app.
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Step 2
Use the template editor to change the colors or add simple patterns to your character.
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Step 3
Set the print size to fit on one sheet of printer paper and choose 100 percent scale.
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Step 4
Print the customized template onto the printer paper.
- 5
Step 5
Cut out each paper shape carefully along the solid outer lines.
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Step 6
Score each fold line by running the ruler along the line and pressing with the blunt back of the scissors.
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Step 7
Fold each scored line neatly so the edges are crisp.
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Step 8
Put glue on one tab at a time following the template marks.
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Step 9
Press each glued tab to the matching edge and hold for a few seconds until it sticks.
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Step 10
Decorate your finished 3D character with colouring materials to add details like eyes or clothes.
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Step 11
Reinforce any weak seams with a small strip of clear tape if needed.
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Step 12
Share a photo and a short description of your finished creation on DIY.org
Fun facts
How do I make digital papercraft models using computer templates?
Start by choosing a simple printable template or create one using a child-friendly drawing program. Resize and print on card stock, then score fold lines with a blunt tool. Cut out shapes carefully, fold along score lines, and apply glue tabs one at a time to assemble each piece. Let glue dry fully between steps. For younger kids, have an adult handle cutting and scoring; older kids can design multiple characters digitally before printing to save time.
What materials and software do I need for digital papercraft at home?
You'll need a computer or tablet, simple template software or printable templates (PDF or PNG), and a color printer with card stock. Gather scissors or a craft knife (adult use), a metal ruler, cutting mat, bone folder or blunt tool for scoring, white craft glue or glue stick, and markers or paints for decoration. Optional: tape for reinforcement, double-sided tape, and clear laminating sheets for durable models.
What ages is digital papercraft suitable for and when should kids have help?
This activity suits children aged about five to seven for very simple templates with close adult supervision for cutting and scoring. Ages eight to ten can work on moderately detailed models with some help for tricky cuts and glue steps. Tweens and teens (eleven plus) can design templates, print and assemble more complex characters independently. Always supervise use of sharp tools and hot glue; adapt tasks for younger children.
What are the benefits, safety tips, and fun variations for digital papercraft?
Digital papercraft builds fine motor skills, spatial reasoning, following step-by-step instructions, and basic digital design confidence. Safety tips: use safety scissors for young children, supervise craft-knife or hot-glue use, score before folding, and work on a cutting mat. Try variations like adding LED lights, combining templates into dioramas, using recycled boxes for larger models, or turning characters into puppets for group or family builds.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can I use instead of a home printer or printer paper if I can't print the template at home?
Use a local copy shop or library to print the file from the template editor at 100 percent scale onto printer paper, or print on heavier cardstock at the same 100 percent scale for sturdier shapes.
My tabs won't stick or the edges come apart—what should I check or do?
Be sure you scored each fold line with a ruler and the blunt back of the scissors, apply glue to one tab at a time following the template marks, press the glued tab to the matching edge and hold for a few seconds, and reinforce any weak seams with a small strip of clear tape if needed.
How can I adapt the activity for younger children or challenge older kids?
For younger kids, pre-cut and pre-score the printed template on thicker cardstock so they only fold and glue, while older kids can use the template editor to add complex patterns and assemble multi-part models using a craft knife under supervision.
How can we enhance or personalize the finished papercraft beyond basic coloring?
Customize the template editor with photos or patterns, add glued-on details like googly eyes and fabric scraps with coloring materials for clothing, create a cardboard diorama base, or print multiple sizes to make a family set before sharing a photo and description on DIY.org.