Paper structures are fun and practical to construct. They are durable and strong, and offer a creative and inexpensive approach to model making that is explored in this workshop.
Did you know that although a piece of newspaper only weighs a gram or two, when it’s rolled up it can hold the weight of a heavy book? Strength can be created by rolling paper into cylinders, which disperse stress evenly throughout their length. Strength and stability can also be achieved by incorporating triangles, arches, and domes into paper structures to distribute weight evenly - a process very similar to the ones used by engineers and architects when designing bridges and buildings. In this free, 2 hour workshop, you will learn how to: Make newspaper cylindrical units that are strong and durable Join the cylinders to create different and complex 3 dimensional structures. You’ll be able to follow the activity step-by-step in a relaxed and friendly environment.
You’ll need:
Plenty of newspapers and magazines
Wooden or bamboo skewers
(ideally 250mm long but smaller cocktail sticks will also work well)
PVA glue
Water
Small plastic or glass bowl
Elastic cord (same thickness as the skewers)
Paint brush Scalpel Ruler (preferably metal)
Some type of foam board, florists’ foam or a few big potatoes
Pencil Scissors
Hair dryer
This workshop will be led by Ana Simoes. Ana is an experienced designer-jeweller and has been working as the Workshop Coordinator for Jewellery and Small-Scale Metals at Plymouth College of Art since 2016. Friday 14 May from 10 am to 12 pm.