Designing the Model

• 1). Choose the object that will be modeled. A skyscraper or other rectangular structure will simplify the calculations. Get pictures of the object to provide details of the exterior. Get exact measurements of the object. Height, width, and length of all surfaces and objects will be needed. For a skyscraper there may be multiple measurements if the building has several layers. Write down all of the measurements.
  
  
• 2). Choose a scale. A sample scale for a skyscraper model is 1 foot = 1/100 inch. Use this scale to convert all measurements of the real object into the measurements for the model. For a smaller object a smaller scale can be used. If the building is 1,400 feet tall and 420 feet long on each side, the model would be 1,400/100 = 14 inches tall and 420/100 = 4.2 inches long.
  
  
• 3). Draw the model to scale. For a building draw each of the sides that will need to be constructed. For the example building, draw a rectangle with long sides of 14 inches and short sides of 4.2 inches. Draw a square with sides 4.2 inches on each side for the base and roof sections. Verify all measurements are correct before beginning construction.
  
  

Building the Model

• 1). Choose the materials to work with. Large buildings such as the sample skyscraper will require solid materials such as cardboard or balsa wood so that the weight will not cause the walls to become concave when the building is standing. Smaller structures such as houses can be built with card stock or paper. Other choices include toothpicks and popsicle sticks.
  
  
• 2). Cut out the design previously drawn. Lay the large rectangle on the cardboard sheet and trace it four times. These will be the walls. Trace the square twice to create the floor and roof. Cut out the rectangles and squares.
  
  
• 3). Paint details on the exterior of the rectangles. Details may include windows or architectural surfaces such as arches. Allow the paint to dry before beginning construction.
  
  
• 4). Begin construction from the bottom and work up. Use tape to hold the parts together until the model has been completed. Adjust parts as necessary so the model is freestanding. Once all parts have been adjusted, use glue to finish the construction. For the sample model, use tape on the inside of the walls to attach each side and form a square. Set the roof on top and verify that all parts are even. Glue the sides and roof and set aside to dry completely. Once the glue is dry, flip the model over and glue the floor on.
  
  
• 5). Add any additional details required for the model. This may include landscaping, water features, doors or decals.