Creating functional power tools out of waste cartons is a challenging task due to the limited strength and durability of cardboard or paper-based materials. However, you can make simplified, low-power tools or models for educational purposes or as creative projects. Here's a basic guide on how to make a cardboard power drill and a cardboard saw:
Cardboard Power Drill:
Materials:
- Cardboard
- Pencil
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Craft knife (adult supervision required)
- Wooden dowel or a thin stick
- Rubber bands
- Glue
- Small motor (e.g., a hobby motor)
- 9V battery and battery connector (optional)
Steps:
- Draw the shape of the power drill handle on a piece of cardboard and cut it out.
- Cut two identical circles from cardboard for the drill's body.
- Cut a small rectangular piece for the trigger.
- Attach the two circular pieces to either side of the handle to create the body of the drill.
- Attach the trigger to the handle, ensuring it can pivot.
- Attach the small motor to the front of the drill body, so it acts as the drill bit.
- Attach the wooden dowel to the motor's shaft to extend it.
- Connect the motor to a 9V battery using a battery connector (optional).
- Use rubber bands to attach the trigger to the motor shaft in a way that pulling the trigger will spin the motor.
Your cardboard power drill won't have much power or functionality, but it can be a fun DIY project.
Cardboard Saw:
Materials:
- Cardboard
- Pencil
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Craft knife (adult supervision required)
- Wooden dowel or a thin stick
- Glue
- Small hacksaw blade (use caution)
Steps:
- Draw the shape of the saw handle on a piece of cardboard and cut it out.
- Cut a small rectangular piece for the blade holder.
- Attach the blade holder to the handle.
- Attach a small piece of cardboard to the end of the blade holder to create a support structure.
- Cut a small slot in the cardboard support structure to hold the hacksaw blade.
- Insert the hacksaw blade into the slot, making sure it's securely held in place.
- Attach the wooden dowel to the handle to act as a saw handle.
- Your cardboard saw is now ready for use.
Remember, these cardboard tools are not suitable for actual work and are primarily for decorative or educational purposes. Always exercise caution when working with sharp objects like blades or hobby motors, and adult supervision may be necessary, especially for younger makers.