How to Make a Cone

I use this method to make cones of a specific size, I mostly use it to make templates for metal or fabric.

Step 1: Draw a Profile of the Cone You Want to Make

Draw a profile of the cone you want to make. I usually use card stock as it is a bit more durable, but use whatever you have around.

Step 2: Extend Cone, If Needed

If you drew a full cone please disregard

Step 3: Label Your Cone

Label the base A and B and the apex D. Or not is up to you

Step 4: Set a Compass

Set a compass to DB

Step 5: Draw an Arc

Using D as your center, draw an arc from B, make it longer than you might think

Step 6: Measure AB

Measure AB, mine was 1 3/4

Step 7: Multiply AB Times Pi

for me this was 1.75x3.14=5.495, I just rounded to 5.5

Step 8: Measure Arc

You want your arc to be the sum of ABxPi. In my case 5.5 inches, so I use a piece of string to measure it.

Step 9: Lay String on Arc

Lay string on arc and mark 5.5 inches

Step 10: Draw Line From Mark to D

For my cone it was from 5.5 along the arc to D

Step 11: If You Did Not Have a Full Cone

Set compass from D to top of cone

Step 12: Draw Top Arc

Connect the arc to the line

Step 13: Cut Out

I used scissors, but use what ever method works for you

Step 14: Full Cone

here is what a full cone would look like

Step 15: Truncated Cone

here is the truncated version

Step 16: Work the Paper

you might have to roll it around a bit to get it into shape. I mostly use for templates for fabric or metal so I dont worry too much at this point

Step 17: Ta Da

finished

Comments

[paulpeters597]

Thank You!!! This instructional is the most easiest and practical way to layout a cone!!! Absolutely Terrific!!!

[joen]

You got my vote. I have always wanted to know how to calculate cone shapes. Now I know. However I think there is a better way to calculate the shape of the cone than your thread method. While I am happy it works for you, I would have a hard time getting it right myself. Instead I would calculate the shape this way.

I would divide the circumference of the cone base (5.5"") by the circumference of the full circle of radius BD (13.35") and multiply the resulting decimal fraction by 360 thus giving me the angle from BD to the arc to give me the shape of the cone template (148.2 degrees).

Thanks for a lesson on cone making. I will be using this. Be advised that I have voted and Favorited this instructable

[tomatoskins]

Fun idea! I've always liked math equations behind the shapes.