How to Make a Paper Gun: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making a paper gun can be a fun and creative activity, especially for kids and teens. With a few simple folds and cuts, you can create a functional (or at least, functional- looking) paper gun. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making a simple paper gun using just paper and a pencil.
Materials Needed
Before you start, make sure you have the following materials:
- One piece of plain paper (preferably heavier weight paper, such as cardstock)
- A pencil
- A pair of scissors
- A ruler or straightedge (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
The paper gun we’ll be making is a simple, pull-back-style gun that launches a small projectile (like a paper clip or pen cap). Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Fold the Paper
Begin by folding the paper in half lengthwise, making sure the edges are even and the corners are flush.
Step 2: Create the Gun’s Body
Open the folded paper and draw a rough outline of the gun’s body on the paper. Make sure the outline is relatively symmetrical and includes:
- A rectangular body (about 2-3 inches long)
- Two small triangular handles (one on each side of the body)
- A smaller rectangular trigger (about 0.5 inches wide)
Step 3: Cut Out the Body
Using scissors, cut out the gun’s body along the outline you drew. Make sure to keep the edges straight and cut carefully to avoid tearing the paper.
Step 4: Create the Grip
Cut two small tabs at the top of the gun’s body, making sure they are even and symmetrical. These will serve as the grip of the gun.
Step 5: Create the Trigger
Cut a small notch at the front of the trigger, making sure it’s deep enough to hold a small projectile. This will be the slot where you load the "bullet".
Step 6: Assemble the Gun
Fold the grips over the body of the gun, making sure they are even and secure. You can use a small piece of tape to keep them in place.
Step 7: Launch the Projectile
To load the gun, place the small projectile (like a paper clip or pen cap) into the trigger slot. Pull the trigger back slowly, keeping the gun vertical, and then release quickly. The projectile should shoot out of the gun!
