Zipper-Coupled Tube Construction

Attached below is a YouTube link to an instructional video on how to create a zipper-coupled tube. This is the best resource for learning how to make a zipper-coupled tube.

Link: https://youtu.be/qVg6D8KHADs

Useful Information to Know:

• Mountain Folds: An upwards facing fold
• Valley Folds: Downward facing fold

If using paper:

• Scissors
• Glue
• Pencil
• X-acto Blade

Preferably, have access to a laser cutter.

If printing:

The pattern will not be as precise as if you laser cut, but it is easier to have access to a printer. You can print the attached PDF file below with the pattern.

If laser cutting:

The pattern will be more precise. Use the attached DXF file to laser cut the precise pattern.

If printing:

Score the paper along the lines of the pattern. This will allow for easier folding later.

On each line, make the corresponding fold:

On Orange Lines: Make mountain folds.

On Blue Lines: Make valley folds.

Cut along three vertical, uncolored lines in the middle of the pattern with an X-acto blade.

Along the horizontal line across the middle of the pattern, make a valley fold. In the triangular boxes on either side of the middle line, fold the boxes in on each other and glue them together.

(This step can be a little confusing, so you can reference the video from 3:41-4:24 to see how to do it).

Fold the tabs on both sides of the pattern inwards so that they are facing each other like so. Glue the tabs together. This will make the tube almost two-dimensional.

When the tabs are glued together, the pattern will be flattened out, so the folds will need to be re-creased.

After the folds have been re-creased, the zipper-coupled tube will hold a three-dimensional shape. Then, the tube can be compressed into a small volume as shown.

On the inside of the tube, there can be interference. If needed, the tabs can be cut down to reduce the interference.