Introduction: Cardboard NYC: a Moving Skyline Train

By emilyma2009
About: I am a high school student from The Lawrenceville School, I'm a maker who loves blending art and technology to create fun, meaningful projects. Whether it's a gift for family, a surprise for friends, or someth…

Theme: A miniature dynamic NYC skyline featuring a vintage train looping around iconic buildings.

Key Features:

  1. Layered Silhouettes: Laser-cut (or hand-cut) black cardstock buildings (Statue of Liberty, Empire State......) mounted on shoebox layers for depth.
  2. Moving Train: Cardboard steam train on a circular track, powered by a hidden motor.


Supplies

Materials: Upcycled shoebox, corrugated cardboard, toy motor, hot glue gun, marker.

AutoCAD

Step 1: Base Preparation

  1. Flatten the shoebox; use its base as the platform and cut side panels into staggered rectangular backdrops.


Step 2: Skyline Silhouettes

  1. Sketch NYC landmarks on black cardstock, cut out, and glue them onto backdrops in two layers. Add "windows" with metallic markers.


Attachments

Step 3: Track System

  1. Bend cardboard strips into a ring, secure with hot glue. Line the inner edge with plastic tape for smooth motion.
  2. Install a mini motor under the base, connect it to the track via a rubber band gear mechanism.


Step 4: Train Assembly

  1. Assulate a train from cardboard, attach magnets to its base (repelled by track magnets for propulsion). Test motor speed.


Step 5: Finishing Touches