Modeling: Production of Models with Paper – JSS1 Cultural & Creative Arts Lesson Note (Second Term)

What is paper modelling?

Paper modelling is the art of making three-dimensional (3D) objects from paper by cutting, folding, gluing and shaping flat sheets.

• Modelling: making a 3D copy of an object, with length, width and height, from a chosen material.
• Paper modelling: modelling that uses paper or card as the main material.
• Main actions: measuring, cutting, folding, scoring and joining.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. define paper modelling;
2. name the four types of paper modelling;
3. list the paper, tools and adhesives used for paper modelling;
4. describe the basic techniques of measuring, cutting, folding, scoring and joining;
5. state the planning, template and construction stages of making a paper model;
6. make a simple paper model such as a cube, pyramid, cylinder or cone.

What is the history of paper modelling?

Paper modelling grew out of paper making, which began in China, and spread through paper folding and paper crafts in other countries.

Origins of paper modelling

• China: paper was first made here, and early paper crafts followed.
• Japan: developed origami, the art of folding paper into shapes.
• Europe: paper cutting, folding and model making grew over the centuries.
• Victorian era: paper crafts became popular in homes in the 19th century.
• Today: architects and designers use paper models to plan their work.

Development in education

• Teaching tool: teachers use paper models to explain shapes and structures.
• Spatial understanding: students see how flat shapes form solid objects.
• Fine motor skills: cutting and folding train the hands.
• Creativity: students solve problems as they design and build.

What are the types of paper modelling?

There are four types of paper modelling: architectural models, geometric models, object replicas and artistic sculptures.

Architectural models

Architectural models are scaled paper copies of buildings and structures.

• Buildings: houses, schools, mosques and churches.
• Layouts: town plans and interior design mock-ups.
• Replicas: bridges and monuments made to scale.

Geometric models

Geometric models are paper solids built from mathematical shapes.

• Polyhedra: solids such as cubes and pyramids.
• Demonstrations: shapes used to teach mathematics.
• Decorations: abstract shapes used as ornaments.

Object replicas

Object replicas are paper copies of real things.

• Vehicles: cars, planes and ships.
• Living things: animals and human figures.
• Household items: miniature furniture and historical artefacts.
• Prototypes: first trial versions of a product.

Artistic sculptures

Artistic sculptures are paper works made mainly for expression and beauty.

• Abstract forms: shapes that do not copy a real object.
• Relief work: shapes that stand out from a flat background.
• Mixed media pieces: paper combined with other materials.

What materials are needed for paper modelling?

Paper modelling needs paper, cutting and marking tools, adhesives and finishing materials.

Paper types

• Cardstock: heavy paper that holds its shape well.
• Construction paper: coloured paper for simple projects.
• Bristol board: smooth, stiff board for neat models.
• Corrugated cardboard: strong board for large structures.
• Newspaper: used for papier-mâché.
• Craft paper: plain paper for general use.
• Card paper: thin card for templates and small models.

Tools required

• Scissors: cut paper and card.
• Craft knife: cuts interior shapes. Use only with teacher supervision.
• Metal-edged ruler: measures and guides straight cuts.
• Cutting mat: protects the table.
• Pencil: marks lines lightly.
• Eraser: removes wrong marks.
• Compasses: draw circles and curves.
• Scoring tool: makes a groove along a fold line.

Adhesives

• White glue (PVA): strong glue for most joins.
• Glue stick: clean glue for thin paper.
• Double-sided tape: gives a neat, dry join.
• Clear tape: holds parts quickly.
• Hot glue: strong, but use only under supervision.
• Paste: a simple adhesive, often made from starch.

Additional materials

• Paints, markers and coloured pencils: add colour and detail.
• Decorative papers and embellishments: add pattern and extra features.
• Finishing sprays: protect the surface.

What are the basic paper modelling techniques?

The five basic techniques are measuring and marking, cutting, folding, scoring and joining.

Measuring and marking

• Use a ruler: it gives accurate lines.
• Mark lightly: pencil lines can be erased.
• Measure twice, cut once: check sizes before cutting.
• Think of scale: keep the parts in proportion.

Cutting techniques

• Straight cuts: cut along a ruler.
• Curved cuts: cut freehand with scissors, turning the paper.
• Interior cuts: cut windows and doors with a craft knife, with a teacher present.
• Clean edges: neat edges make neat joins.
• Safety: cut away from your body and keep fingers clear.

Folding methods

A valley fold folds the paper towards you, and a mountain fold folds it away from you.

• Crisp creases: press each fold flat.
• Bone folder or ruler: helps make a sharp crease.

Scoring

Scoring is pressing a groove along a fold line so the paper bends neatly.

• Use a blunt tool: an empty ball pen or the back of a knife works.
• Do not cut through: press only enough to make a groove.
• Score before folding: it gives clean fold lines.
• Use on thick paper: card cracks or bends badly without scoring.

Joining techniques

• Tab and slot: a tab pushes into a cut slot.
• Overlapping edges: one edge is glued over another.
• Flap attachments: a folded flap is glued to the next face.
• Interlocking pieces: cut pieces slot into each other.
• Invisible joins: tabs are hidden on the inside.

What are the stages of making a paper model?

A paper model is made in three stages: planning, template creation and construction.

Planning stage

1. Conceptualise the design: decide what to make.
2. Create sketches: draw the model from different sides.
3. Determine the scale: choose the size of the model.
4. List materials: write the paper, tools and adhesive needed.
5. Plan the sequence: decide the order of building.

Template creation

A template is a flat pattern that folds into the model.

1. Draw the pattern: draw all faces of the model flat.
2. Add tabs: include tabs for joining.
3. Mark fold lines: show where each fold goes.
4. Label pieces: name or number each piece.
5. Test on scrap paper: fix mistakes before using good card.

Construction process

1. Transfer the template: trace it onto the chosen paper.
2. Cut out all pieces: cut carefully along the lines.
3. Score fold lines: press a groove along each fold.
4. Pre-fold all creases: fold each line before gluing.
5. Assemble in order: follow your planned sequence.
6. Apply adhesive: use a small amount on the tabs.
7. Hold until dry: press the join until it sticks.
8. Add details and finish: colour and decorate the model.

What are the common paper models?

The common paper models are the cube, pyramid, cylinder, cone and house model.

Basic cube

• Faces: six equal squares.
• Use: a good beginner project and the base of other shapes.

Pyramid

• Base: square or triangular.
• Sides: triangular faces that meet at a point.
• Height: can be changed by changing the triangles.

Cylinder

• Body: a rectangle rolled and joined.
• Ends: a circle at the top and another at the bottom.
• Use: basis for pencil holders, drums and towers.

Cone

• Body: a sector (slice) of a circle rolled into a point.
• Use: party hats, roofs and rockets.

House model

• Shapes: combines a cube or box with a roof shape.
• Details: windows, doors and different roof styles.
• Setting: trees and a compound can be added.

What are the advanced paper modelling techniques?

Advanced techniques are used for curved, moving and complex paper models.

• Curved surfaces: score many close lines and bend gently for smooth curves.
• Pop-up elements: folds that make parts stand up or move when a card opens.
• Modular construction: many equal units joined to form a large pattern.
• Mixed media: paper combined with other materials, texture and colour.

What are the uses of paper modelling?

Paper modelling is used in schools, in professional work and for personal projects.

Educational uses

• Mathematics: shows solid shapes.
• Science and geography: models of structures, landforms and cells.
• History: dioramas of past scenes.
• Art: practice in design and craft.

Professional applications

• Architecture: presenting building plans to clients.
• Product design and engineering: testing ideas as prototypes.
• Film and exhibitions: planning sets and displays.

Personal projects

• Decoration: home, party and seasonal displays.
• Gifts and hobbies: boxes, cards and crafts.

What Nigerian cultural models can be made with paper?

Nigerian buildings and cultural objects can be copied in paper to preserve and celebrate our heritage.

Traditional architecture

• Yoruba palace compounds: rooms built around an open courtyard.
• Hausa traditional homes: flat-roofed or domed houses of the north.
• Igbo mbari houses: shrine houses filled with art.
• Fulani shelters: simple temporary huts.
• Granaries: round stores for grain.

Cultural symbols

• Traditional masks: paper copies of ceremonial masks.
• Musical instruments: drums and other local instruments.
• Ceremonial objects and traditional boats: models of cultural items.
• Market scenes: stalls, traders and goods in a diorama.

What are some project ideas?

Projects are graded as beginner, intermediate or advanced.

What are the design principles in paper modelling?

The four design principles used in paper modelling are balance, proportion, unity and emphasis.

• Balance: weight is spread evenly, in a symmetrical or asymmetrical way, so the model stands firmly.
• Proportion: parts have the correct sizes in relation to each other and to the scale.
• Unity: colour, style and theme work together as one design.
• Emphasis: a focal point and contrast draw the eye to the main feature.

How do we finish and display a paper model?

We finish a model with surface treatments and then show it with a suitable display method.

Surface treatments

• Painting and drawing: add colour and details.
• Texture and pattern: add interest to the surface.
• Protective coating: guards the paper from handling.

Display methods

• Base mounting: fix the model on a board.
• Hanging: suspend light models with thread.
• Case presentation: place the model in a box or case.
• Lighting and background: show the model clearly.

How do we preserve and store paper models?

Paper models last longer when kept dry, clean and well supported.

• Avoid moisture: damp softens and stains paper.
• Protect from dust: cover or box the model.
• Handle carefully: hold by the strongest part.
• Store flat or supported: prevents bending and crushing.
• Control temperature: keep away from heat.
• Documentation: photograph finished work, keep templates and record measurements.

What are the common challenges and their solutions?

Weak joints, warping and inaccurate cuts are the most common problems in paper modelling.

Evaluation

1. Define paper modelling.
2. Name the four types of paper modelling.
3. List four tools and three adhesives used in paper modelling.
4. What is the difference between a valley fold and a mountain fold?
5. State the stages of the construction process in the correct order.

Assignment

Make a paper cube and write a short report on it, as follows.

1. Draw a template with tabs, mark the fold lines, then cut, score, fold and glue it.
2. List the materials and tools you used.
3. Name two Nigerian traditional buildings that could be made as paper models.