Papercraft for Beginners: How to Get Started (Tools, Tips & Easy Projects)

Sometimes even the simplest stuff needs a little guidance, so today we’re diving into the talk about Papercraft for Beginners: How to Get Started (Tools, Tips & Easy Projects).
What Is Papercraft?

When people hear papercraft, they usually think of origami. That’s fair, but papercraft is actually more about building 3D models out of paper.
Basically, if there’s a plastic model, there’s probably a papercraft version too. And then there are custom original models made by 3d design geniuses around the world… Ones that aren’t even sold in stores.
To me, papercrafting is a hobby where you build the model you want for the lowest cost possible. it’s for everyone, all ages across every genre and category be it anime, architecture, toys, vehicles, sci-fi, and more.
And when you finish the model, it becomes a beautiful, accomplished piece of art.
It’s kind of like building a plastic model, but with a little more DIY and way less cost. If you do it right, you can end up with a really cool looking model that looks just like a $200 figurine.
Papercraft Tools You’ll Need (Beginner Kit)
The tools you’ll need to get started as a beginner papercrafter are:
Material Side
- Scissors or hobby knife
- Printer (inkjet or laser)
- Paper for printing (preferable 180gsm and above)
- Glue (preferably translucent glue)
- Cutting mat – this is optional, you can use any surface you want
- Tweezers – these are a must for small parts
- A light source like an LED drawing board helps when you’re working with templates that have hard to see lines. Shining the light from behind makes the lines pop, which is super helpful, especially if the template scans aren’t great. It’s optional, but definitely a nice touch.
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Basically the tools are pretty much the same as assembling a Gundam models or any Plamo models. Except for number 7.
Software Side (Windows)
I’m only listing windows software since I don’t know how to open .Pdo files on Mac or ios.
- Pepakura Software – You’ll be downloading Pepakura Designer but we’ll be using the built in Pepakura Viewer inside Pepakura Designer.
- PDF Reader
- WinRAR
4. Choosing Your First Papercraft Model
As a beginner, you should start with simple stuff, no tiny parts or complicated folds. In that regard, i’ll recommend Easy level papercrafts which usually only need around 4–6 A4 papers printed.
So usually that would fall under the category of simple buildings, chibi anime models, cars, and paper toys.
Here’s a list of few papercraft templates I recommend :
How To Open and View Papercraft Templates
Papercraft templates usually come in three file types: JPG, PDF, and PDO. They are usually archived inside a .zip or .rar file in mypapercraft.net
What is PDO?
PDO is a file format used by Pepakura Viewer. I mentioned before that you need to download Pepakura Designer, but you’ll only be using Pepakura Viewer that comes with it.

PDO files are mainly used as assembly guides, since every part in Pepakura Viewer is clickable and shows you where each piece goes. You can also print the templates directly from the Viewer if you want.
What is JPG?
JPG is an image file format that can be opened with any photo app on your computer, tablet, or phone.
What is PDF?
PDF is a common document format that can be opened with pretty much any PDF reader, Acrobat Reader, Foxit, or whatever you prefer. But for papercrafting, we usually stick with Acrobat Reader since it’s free and does the job just fine.

You can also open PDF files using an internet browser like Chrome or even Internet Explorer. It’s a quick way to view templates without needing to install anything extra.
What is WinRAR
WinRAR is a file archiver, and since papercraft templates are often large, they’re usually compressed into .zip or .rar formats to make the file size smaller. I typically add a password when compressing them, and they’re best opened using WinRAR.
So please use WinRAR when opening .zip or .rar files from this site.
Cutting & Scoring Basics
For cutting and scoring basics, if you need help I think a video might be more appropriate to show you how to do it. So please watch the video below.
Or if you’ve got the money, you could use a paper cutter machine.
Gluing & Assembling Your First Model
I have an article made just for this: Best Transparent Glues for Perfect Paper Crafts . Basically, don’t rush when gluing your project, be patient and use a light, thin coat.
Expectations and Patience!
So you finished your first papercraft and it didn’t turn out the way you expected? Don’t worry, everyone’s been there, even me.
I’m still in the same boat after all these years. Mistakes happen, and things don’t always go as planned… just like in real life.
But after a few tries and some trial and error, your model will start looking closer to that $200 figurine you’ve always wanted.
So don’t give up just yet. You’ve already spent money on the 180gsm paper, that new printer, and fresh ink.. might as well keep going.
There are so many awesome papercraft templates out there, and like any skill, papercrafting takes time and practice to get good at.
Have fun papercrafting! Once you get good time to head for the next level – Medium Difficulty!