How to Make a Paper Hammer at Home
Want to make your hammer at home with just paper or cardboard? It’s easier than you think! In this DIY tutorial, we’ll show you two different ways to make a paper hammer. Read on to learn this fun and easy project.
Why Make a Paper Hammer?
Celebrate the end of summer by spending a weekend crafting a paper hammer with the kids, or create one for your very own! So, major benefits include;
- It is Cheap– you only need paper, cardboard, or wood so it is cost-effective.
- Fully customizable – you decide how to make your hammer one-of-a-kind
- Educational: tool-making fosters creativity and problem-solving[120]
It’s just plain fun! It is very satisfying when you create something with your hands.
So if you’re looking for an easy DIY project to do at home, making a paper hammer is a great option. Keep reading to learn step-by-step how to make one.
Materials Needed
To make your paper hammer, you’ll need:
- Paper (construction paper, cardstock, or cardboard)
- Scissors
- Tape (duct tape or packing tape)
- Hot glue (optional)
- A small nail or dowel for the handle
Make sure you have all the supplies ready before starting the project. The amount of materials needed may vary slightly depending on which method you use.
Method 1: Simple Folded Paper Hammer
This first method is the easiest way to make a basic paper hammer using just paper and tape.
Step 1: Cut an 8×8 inch square from sturdy paper
Materials needed: Construction paper, cardstock, or thin cardboard works well. Cut into a nice square shape.
Step 2: Fold the square diagonally
Take your paper square and fold it from corner to corner along one diagonal line. Crease it well for a tight triangle.
Step 3: Section the triangle by thirds
Now divide that triangle into thirds by folding each pointy end into the shape’s center. This will section it neatly.
Step 4: Reinforce with tape
Use sturdy packing or duct tape along the folded edges to securely hold the cardboard hammer’s form. The tape keeps it from unfolding during playtime hammering fun!
And there you have it – a simple paper hammer made solely from scrap materials! Let me know if any of the steps need more clarification. With this template, you’ll have a mini construction hammer in no time.
Step 5: Add the Hammer Handle
Make a hole in the bottom corner of the hammerhead and insert a nail, dowel, or even a thick pen for the handle. And that’s it – you now have a simple paper hammer! Feel free to decorate the hammer head with markers, stickers, glitter, or other embellishments to make it your own.
Method 2: Cardboard Hammer
You can use cardboard and hot glue instead for a more durable paper hammer. This version will be thicker and sturdier.
Step 1: Cut Cardboard into a Rectangle
Cut a rectangle shape out of corrugated cardboard. A good size is about 4 inches by 6 inches.
Step 2: Score the Middle
Using the edge of a ruler, score the center of the cardboard lengthwise. This will help it fold more easily.
Step 3: Fold in Half
Fold the cardboard along the scored line to create the hammerhead shape.
Step 4: Glue the Sides
Apply hot glue along the open edges of the cardboard and press together firmly to seal. Hold for 30-60 seconds while glue dries.
Step 5: Shape the Hammer Head
Use scissors to round off the hammerhead shape. Make one side flat and wide. Trim the other side to a point.
Step 6: Add Handle
Glue a nail, dowel, or other handle object in the flat end to finish your hammer. Once dry, your cardboard hammer is ready to use! The hot glue will help it be more durable than the paper version.
Tips for Making a Great Paper Hammer
- For a thicker hammerhead, you can glue multiple layers of cardboard together
- Get creative with the handle – try using a marker, paint stir stick or wooden dowel
- Wrap the handle in tape or glue on rubber for improved grip
- Decorate your hammer with paint, stickers, ribbon, or other embellishments
- For a larger hammer, start with bigger paper or cardboard pieces
- Use a heavy box like a cereal box for thick cardboard
Frequently Asked Questions
If I Had A Hammer For Paper
The paper hammer of course is a joke and not a beast-mode implement. It is good for creative play and can be worked in a craft project. It can be used with soft surfaces like clay, play dough, or wooden blocks.
How can I make the hammer more powerful?
In those cases, remember to use thicker cardboard or something that will take cardboards place but slide onto the top of the hammer head: such as layers of glued up cardboard, duct tape wrap or some kind of decoupage/mod podge it etc.
Should I get paper in size 1 or 2?
For a regular hammer, make an 8×8 inch square in paper or use a 4×6 inch cardboard. Scale sizes bigger or smaller as needed.
Can kids make a paper hammer?
Absolutely! Assisted toddlers should have supervised scissor and tape use, but it is easy to do with kids as young as preschool age!
What can I use to attach to the handle instead of nails?
Markers, colored pencils, wooden dowels or chopsticks would also be perfect. Be creative with things that you would have at home.
Summary
- Making a DIY paper hammer is an inexpensive and satisfying weekend project
- All you need is basic craft supplies like paper, cardboard, tape, and glue
- Fold paper or shape cardboard into a hammerhead, then add a handle
- Customize your hammer with color, decorations, or by layering cardboard
- While not built for heavy use, paper hammers are great for creative play or crafts
With just a few household items and these simple steps, you can now make your unique paper hammer to use for creative projects or just for fun around the house. Enjoy this satisfying DIY activity!
I’m Ian Welkins, a seasoned professional in the tools industry. My passion drives me to share valuable insights on hammers, drills, and industrial tools. With years of experience, I’m your trusted source for expert advice on the best tools for every job.