How to Make a Paper Submarine
Building a paper submarine is a fun and creative project that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. With a few simple materials and some basic folding techniques, you can create a submarine that can actually float and dive in water. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making a paper submarine.
Materials Needed
Before we start, make sure you have the following materials:
• One sheet of paper (preferably waterproof or treated with a waterproof coating)
• A pencil or a ruler
• A eraser
• A paper clip
• Scissors
• Glue (optional)
• A tub or a sink filled with water
Step-by-Step Instructions
To make a paper submarine, follow these steps:
Contents
Step 1: Fold the Paper in Half
Fold the paper in half lengthwise, so that one long edge meets the other. This will help you create a crease in the paper that will serve as a guide for the rest of the construction process.
Step 2: Create the Body of the Submarine
Open the paper back up and fold the top edge down to the crease you just made. The fold should be about 1-2 cm deep. This will create the body of the submarine.
Step 3: Add the Fins
Cut two small triangles from the remaining paper and glue or tape them to the bottom of the submarine, about 1 cm apart. These will serve as the fins that will help the submarine steer and stabilize in the water.
Step 4: Add the Rudder
Cut a small rectangle from the remaining paper and glue or tape it to the back of the submarine, between the fins. This will serve as the rudder that will help the submarine change direction.
Step 5: Add the Cockpit
Cut a small rectangle from the remaining paper and glue or tape it to the top of the submarine, near the front. This will serve as the cockpit where you’ll place the paper clip to act as the submarine’s "pilot".
Step 6: Add the Ballast
Take a small piece of paper and fold it in half lengthwise. Glue or tape it to the bottom of the submarine, near the fins. This will serve as the ballast that will help the submarine dive and stay afloat.
Step 7: Final Assembly
Once all the parts are in place, your paper submarine is almost ready to use. Make sure all the folds and glue are secure, and then carefully place the submarine in the tub or sink filled with water.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you improve your paper submarine:
- Waterproofing: To make your paper submarine more waterproof, you can apply a waterproof coating or varnish to the paper before assembling it.
- Adding Weights: You can add small weights, such as paper clips or coins, to the ballast to make the submarine more stable and dive deeper.
- Improving Steering: You can add more details to the rudder or fins to improve the submarine’s steering and maneuverability.
- Creating a Propeller: You can add a small propeller made from a paperclip or a small piece of cardboard to the back of the submarine to create movement and propulsion.
Benefits of Making a Paper Submarine
Making a paper submarine can be a fun and educational experience for both kids and adults. Here are some benefits of making a paper submarine:
- Develops Problem-Solving Skills: Building a paper submarine requires problem-solving skills, such as finding the right folds and weights to make it stable and functional.
- Promotes Creativity: Making a paper submarine allows you to express your creativity and imagination, as you can customize the design and features to your liking.
- Teaches Physics Concepts: Building a paper submarine can help you understand basic physics concepts, such as buoyancy, gravity, and propulsion.
- Improves Fine Motor Skills: Assembling the paper submarine requires fine motor skills, such as folding and gluing, which can improve hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
Conclusion
Making a paper submarine is a fun and creative project that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. With these step-by-step instructions and tips, you can create a functional paper submarine that can actually dive and float in water. Whether you’re looking to develop problem-solving skills, promote creativity, or simply have fun, making a paper submarine is a great way to do so.
