Unit 5 · Project 1
Scaled Paper Stencils
Your 3D letter starts as a 2D plan. You'll choose a letter (your initial, a letter with personal meaning, or a letter with interesting structural challenges) and design it at full scale on paper. The stencil must show the front face, the back face, and the side profile of the letter. You'll use these stencils to cut your structural panels. The letter must be at least 8 inches tall when finished.
Objectives
- 1Choose a letter and design it at full scale (minimum 8 inches tall)
- 2Create stencils for front face, back face, and side profile
- 3Letter must be structurally feasible — avoid letters with floating interior pieces (like O or B) unless you plan for bridges
- 4Test stencil by tracing onto cardboard and checking proportions
Materials
- Large paper or cardstock for stencils
- Pencil, ruler, and compass
- Scissors or craft knife and cutting mat
- Cardboard for test cut
Tips & Techniques
1Block letters (thick, uniform stroke width) are structurally easier than script
2The side profile depth determines how 3D your letter looks — aim for at least 2 inches deep
3Trace your stencil onto cardboard first to test before cutting your final material
4Consider how the letter will stand — letters like A, H, and M have natural bases; others need a stand
Lesson Videos
Typography as Sculpture
10 minHow to design, scale, and cut letter forms for 3D standing structures.