How to Build a Simple Paper Robot

Learn how to assemble a friendly, posable robot using everyday paper supplies and simple folding techniques. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Prepare the body parts. Decide which boxes or rolls will be the head, body, and legs. If using paper rolls, wrap them in construction paper to give your robot a metallic color. Ask a grown-up to help you trim the rolls to different sizes if you want a shorter robot.
2. Connect the pieces. Use tape on the inside edges to join your head piece to the body piece. If you are using boxes, you can use a small hole punch and string to create 'joints' so your robot's arms and legs can move.
3. Add the details. Use your markers to draw control panels, buttons, and glowing eyes on your robot. You can cut small squares of colored paper to glue on as dials or switches.
4. Give your robot personality. Cut strips of paper and accordion-fold them to make bouncy arms or antennas. Tape these to your robot's head or sides to finish your design.