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When you download a template, you'll usually find the file in a .rar format. This is a compressed file similar to .zip which contains many more files inside it. Your computer by default may not be able to open these files, but there are many free programs which can help! I recommend Winrar, which has versions for Windows, Mac and Linux. You can download it here.
Inside the .rar file you'll usually find two different types of files - .PDOs and .PDFs. the PDFs can be opened in any browser, but you will need a special program to open the .PDO files. It's worth it though - this file will show you how all the parts join together and the correlation between the 2D template and the 3D model. It is a great reference if you ever get stuck. You can download the program to view these files - Pepakura Viewer - for free here. Unfortunately though, it is windows only.
It's recommended you don't print on regular printer paper. This is usually about 80gsm, which is a measure of thickness which means grams per square metre. I usually print templates on 160gsm paper, which is twice as thick as regular paper. However, you can use anywhere between 120 - 200gsm. Find something that your printer can cope with and works best for you.
How do I open the files? - RAR
When you download a template, you'll usually find the file in a .rar format. This is a compressed file similar to .zip which contains many more files inside it. Your computer by default may not be able to open these files, but there are many free programs which can help! I recommend Winrar, which has versions for Windows, Mac and Linux. You can download it here.
How do I open the files? - PDO
Inside the .rar file you'll usually find two different types of files - .PDOs and .PDFs. the PDFs can be opened in any browser, but you will need a special program to open the .PDO files. It's worth it though - this file will show you how all the parts join together and the correlation between the 2D template and the 3D model. It is a great reference if you ever get stuck. You can download the program to view these files - Pepakura Viewer - for free here. Unfortunately though, it is windows only.
What should I print on?
It's recommended you don't print on regular printer paper. This is usually about 80gsm, which is a measure of thickness which means grams per square metre. I usually print templates on 160gsm paper, which is twice as thick as regular paper. However, you can use anywhere between 120 - 200gsm. Find something that your printer can cope with and works best for you.
What do the dotted lines mean?
These lines indicate where to fold. A dotted line is a mountain fold, where the line forms a peak, and a dot - dash line is the opposite, a valley fold. You don't need to score every line shown in the lined version, but the most extreme angles will need scoring for the best final result. I recommend using an empty ballpoint pen to score along these lines - just make sure it's really empty!
What should I cut with?
This one's mostly up to you. It depends what you prefer - some people like the precision of a blade, whilst I find it faster and more comfortable to use plain old scissors. Just remember to use a cutting mat with a blade to make sure you don't damage the surface you're working on.
What glue should I use?
Number one rule - don't use a gluestick. This will not give you a strong enough bond. I recommend using PVA glue. Any old brand of PVA glue will do, just be sure not to put too much on. apply a thin layer to each tab and hold for several seconds. You'll get a feel of how long to hold the flaps before they are secure with practice.