How to Make a Slotted Cardboard Lobster Costume

     This instructable is based on a technology project, where students had to research cardboard and flat pack construction. First, students in each class were split into groups of five, and picked themes for their costumes.  Students then had to create a step-by-step procedure on how to make a marine-themed costume.  This lobster costume is from the crustaceans group.

Design Brief: I will create a flat pack construction lobster costume made completely out of cardboard.

Specifications: 
1. Must come apart and unfold
2. Easy to assemble
3. Easy and comfortable to wear
4. Fit the body of the average middle-schooler
5. Able to be worn on stage 

Limits:
1. Made out of cardboard
2. Use slotted construction
3. May not use adhesives or fasteners like tape or glue

Materials:
ITEM       MATERIAL DESCRIPTION                QTY       SIZE             PART NAME
S1           LARGE CARDBOARD SHEET          1            6' x 1.5'         BODY
S2           MEDIUM CARDBOARD SHEET       2            3' x 1'             MAIN HEADPIECE
S3           SMALL CARDBOARD SHEET          4            1.2' x 1.2'      MINOR HEADPIECE, HANDS

Tools and Equipment:
ITEM     TOOL                                    USE
T1         CUTTING MAT                     USE UNDER UTILITY KNIFE TO PREVENT SCRATCHING
T2         UTILITY KNIFE                     CUT CARDBOARD WITH PRECISION
T3         RULER                                  MEASURE CARDBOARD
T4         PENCIL                                 MARK WHERE TO CUT AND FOLD
T5         CIRCLE TEMPLATE           TRACE HEAD HOLE FOR BODY PIECE

Parts:
ITEM         QTY                PART NAME
P1                2                   SMALL HEADPIECE PARTS
P2                1                   MAIN HEADPIECE PART
P3                1                   BODY PIECE
P4                2                   CLAWS
P5                2                   CLAW STRAPS
P6                1                   TAIL
P7                4                   LEGS

Step 1 MAKING PART 1: SMALL HEADPIECE PARTS

1. Use the small cardboard sheet (S3)
2. Trace a 12" x 12" square with a pencil (T4) in the center of the sheet
3. Cut 1" x 1" slots in the middle on three of the sides with a utility knife (T2) (also use a cutting mat (T1) to protect the table)
4. Cut the extra cardboard off the sides
5. Final measurements should be 12" x 12" with 1" x 1" slots on three sides
6. Repeat steps 1-5 for the other small headpiece part