Design Question
What would you change if this part of Paper City had to serve twice as many people?
BUILDING PROCESS
How It's Made
The complete step-by-step process from flat sheets to a 3D city.
About this page
This section goes deeper into the project with clear explanations, design thinking and visual examples.
01
Plan the layout
Before cutting anything, decide where the largest landmarks will go and reserve space for roads, rail and water.
- Sketch first
- Mark major zones
- Check empty space
02
Choose scale and proportions
The different pieces should feel as if they belong in the same city. Relative size matters more than perfect real-world scale.
- Compare building heights
- Keep trains consistent
- Check stadium size
03
Cut the parts
Careful cutting is important because small errors can make walls twist or roof sections misalign.
- Cut outer edges first
- Keep tabs attached
- Use a ruler for long lines
04
Fold and assemble
Flat shapes become three-dimensional through careful folding and gluing.
- Score folds lightly
- Fold before gluing
- Hold joins until secure
05
Arrange before fixing
Test different layouts before permanently gluing major pieces onto the board.
- Check sightlines
- Leave clear routes
- Balance left and right
06
Add small details
Trees, signs, bridges, track lines and smaller decorations create the final sense of realism.
- Trees
- Signs
- Bridges
- Road markings
PAPER CITY NOTES
More to think about
Environment Question
How could the same area use less material, create more shade or support more greenery?
Making Question
Which paper component would be hardest to remake accurately, and how could the template be improved?