Let's Build a 3D Card Model - Step 2 -- Add Cereal Box Backing

If you downloaded and built the house in Step 1, you will need to print another set to complete Step 2 .

A.   To add strength and thickness to the model I am going to mount the downloaded sheets to heavier card stock, a cereal box.  I found a box large enough to mount the letter size, 8.5"x11", sheets.

When you card model you save boxes like this.  If you have kids you already have a ready supply.

B.   Cut open the box along the sides to obtain something like this.

Two long cuts and two short cuts provide the basic material.  Save the small, leftover parts for details to come.

C.  Cut out the front and back panels, trimming the edges to ensure a flat surface.

Here are the panels needed to mount the printed sheets.  This slick, outside surface is sealed enough for Yuma, but you may want to seal both sides with spray primer.

 

D.  Here in Yuma, Arizona we have mostly low humidity so I use the cereal box as is, leaving the printed outside surface on the inside of the model and gluing the printed sheet to the bare inside surface.  If you want to protect your model from warping with damp / dry conditions you may wish to seal both surfaces with a spray primer.

These card panels are now ready for the spray adhesive.

 E.  Use a spray adhesive to give the bare surface of the card a light even coat, locate the sheet and smooth out using a stiff ruler.  I just happen to use a tile trowel that I have around.  Leave over night under weights to ensure the panels dry flat.

WARNING: Spray paints and adhesives should be used outdoors, away from flames and with a backdrop to collect the over-spray and protect other surfaces.

All for tonight.  My panels are drying under weight and I will edit this step 2 over the weekend.  Then we start with scribing the fold lines, cutting out the details and folding the corners.

Armchair