Introduction: Cardboard Constructors

By iTeach Maker Bus
About: The KSU Maker Bus Project is the result of our idea that students must use their imagination and intelligence to design something and then they must have the opportunity to fulfill those designs using tools a…

A cardboard constructor is 2 inches by 4 inches with a half-inch groove on each side. When you connect them together using their grooves, you can build amazing structures. The constructors are basically joists and beams. Joists align parallel to one another side by side, and a perpendicular beam supports their weight. Beams are load-bearing, meaning they are important in holding up the structure. Joists and beams work together to provide a structure with support and strength.

Supplies

  • Cardboard
  • Ruler
  • Pencil
  • Scissors
  • Paint, markers, colored pencils, stickers, etc.
  • Paintbrush

Step 1: Measure

First measure 4” marks for the length of your constructor then rotate and measure 2” marks for the width. Measure ½” in the middle on each side for the grooves.

Step 2: Cut

Cut out all constructors and grooves.

Step 3: Decorate

Use paint, colored pencils, or crayons to decorate your constructors!

Step 4: Build

Connect your constructors together to build amazing structures!

Step 5: Experiment!

Experiment with different sizes and shapes!

  • Can your structure support weight?
  • What is the tallest structure you can build? Widest?