Making paper toys is a fun and easy craft that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. One of the most popular paper toys to make is a paper tank. In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to make your very own paper tank.
Materials Needed:
- White printer paper or construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue stick or tape
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Black marker
Step 1: Cut Your Paper
Start by cutting a rectangular piece of paper that is 8.5 inches by 11 inches. This is the standard size for printer paper, so it should be easy to find.
Step 2: Fold Your Paper
Fold the paper in half vertically, crease it firmly, and then unfold it. This will give you a center line to use as a guide for the next few steps.
Step 3: Fold the Top Corners
Fold the top corners of the paper down to the center crease, making sure the edges meet in the middle. This will create a point at the top of the paper.
Step 4: Fold the Top Flap
Fold the top flap down so that it covers the bottom of the triangle you just made. The tip of the triangle should be just visible at the top.
Step 5: Fold the Bottom Flap
Fold the bottom flap up so that it covers the top of the triangle. This will create a small rectangle at the bottom of the paper.
Step 6: Fold the Bottom Corners
Fold the bottom corners of the paper up to the center crease, making sure the edges meet in the middle. This will create two small triangles on either side of the rectangle.
Step 7: Fold the Top Flap Again
Fold the top flap down again so that it covers the bottom of the two triangles. This will create a larger rectangle at the bottom of the paper.
Step 8: Fold the Paper in Half
Fold the paper in half along the center crease, with the large rectangle on the bottom and the smaller rectangle on top.
Step 9: Fold the Top Corners Again
Fold the top corners of the paper down to the center crease, making sure the edges meet in the middle. This will create another point at the top of the paper.
Step 10: Fold the Top Flap Again
Fold the top flap down so that it covers the bottom of the triangle you just made. The tip of the triangle should be just visible at the top.
Step 11: Fold the Bottom Flap Again
Fold the bottom flap up so that it covers the top of the triangle. This will create another small rectangle at the bottom of the paper.
Step 12: Fold the Bottom Corners Again
Fold the bottom corners of the paper up to the center crease, making sure the edges meet in the middle. This will create two more small triangles on either side of the rectangle.
Step 13: Fold the Top Flap a Final Time
Fold the top flap down again so that it covers the bottom of the two triangles. This will create a larger rectangle at the bottom of the paper.
Step 14: Fold the Paper in Half Again
Fold the paper in half again along the center crease, with the large rectangle on the bottom and the smaller rectangle on top.
Step 15: Cut the Tank Shape
Use scissors to cut out the shape of the tank. Start by cutting along the sides of the tank, following the outline of the triangles and rectangles you have folded. Then, cut out the turret, gun, and other details of the tank.
Step 16: Fold the Turret
Fold the turret of the tank in half along the dotted line that runs down the center. This will give the turret some stability and help it stand upright.
Step 17: Fold the Gun
Fold the gun of the tank in half along the dotted line that runs down the center. This will also give the gun some stability and help it stand upright.
Step 18: Assemble the Tank
Using a glue stick or tape, assemble the tank by attaching the turret and gun to the main body of the tank. Make sure everything is securely attached and the tank can stand upright.
Step 19: Add Details
Using a black marker, add details to your tank such as tracks, camouflage, and any other features you want to include.
Step 20: Play!
Your paper tank is now complete and ready to play with! Use your imagination to create battles and scenarios for your tank to engage in.
Conclusion
Making a paper tank is a fun and easy craft project that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create your very own paper tank in no time. Whether you are a seasoned crafter or just starting out, making paper toys is a great way to flex your creative muscles and have fun at the same time. So grab some paper, scissors, and glue, and start creating your own paper tank today!