DIY Cardboard Sword
Hey there, Here I am back again with a cardboard sword, a fun and creative DIY project that allows you to craft your very own sword using simple materials.
Supplies
To make a cardboard sword, you will need the following supplies:
- Cardboard (for the main structure of the sword)
- Glue (to stick pieces together)
- Scale (for measuring straight lines)
- Paper Cutter (for cutting the cardboard with precision)
- Hot Glue Gun (for stronger and quicker bonding)
- Colours (optional, for decorating and giving a finishing touch)
- Template Here is the template of the cardboard sword
Cutout the Template
Cut out the template carefully using a paper cutter or sharp scissors. Once all the pieces are cut out, you can start assembling them to bring your cardboard sword to life.
Place the template on the cardboard and trace its outline carefully using a pencil. Once the outline is ready, use a paper cutter or sharp scissors to cut out the cardboard along the traced lines
Assembly
To assemble the cutout cardboard sword pieces, follow these steps:
- Arrange the Pieces: Lay out all the cutout pieces of the sword to ensure you have everything needed.
- Glue the Blade: If the sword has multiple layers for the blade, stack them together to make it sturdy. Use glue or a hot glue gun to stick the layers securely. Press them together until the glue dries.
- Attach the Hilt: Glue the handle or hilt to the blade. Make sure it is properly aligned and centered so the sword looks balanced. Use extra glue for a strong connection.
- Reinforce the Joints: Add more glue at the joints where the blade meets the handle to make the sword stronger. You can add small strips of cardboard around these areas for extra support.
- Smooth the Edges: Trim any rough edges using a paper cutter to give the sword a clean finish.
Hardness
To give the cardboard sword more hardness and strength, follow these steps using glue and water with newspaper or paper:
- Prepare the glue mixture: Mix equal parts of glue and water in a bowl to make a thin, runny paste. Stir well until smooth.
- Tear the Newspaper or Paper: Tear the newspaper or paper into small strips or pieces. Tearing works better than cutting, as rough edges stick more easily.
- Apply the paper layers:
- Dip a piece of newspaper or paper into the glue mixture and remove the excess by sliding it through your fingers.
- Place the wet paper strip on the cardboard sword and smooth it down to cover the surface.
- Continue this process, overlapping the paper strips until the entire sword is covered.
- Let It Dry: Allow the first layer to dry completely. This might take several hours, depending on the thickness and environment.
- Repeat for Strength: Add 2-3 more layers of paper and glue to make the sword stronger and more durable. Always let each layer dry before adding the next.
- Smooth Finish: Once fully dry, the surface will harden. You can lightly sand it or trim any uneven edges for a clean look.
Paint
Painting your cardboard sword can bring it to life! Here are some tips:
- Primer: Apply a white acrylic gesso or primer first to seal the cardboard and create a smooth base for painting.
- Base Color: Use acrylic paints for vibrant colors. Choose a base color for the sword's blade, such as metallic silver or gray.
Result
It's sturdy for a cardboard project and looks like a creative and fun DIY craft. Overall, the result is impressive and showcases effort and creativity! With that, this project is finished.