Turn Recycled Cardboard Into a Fun DIY Car for Pets
Transform those cardboard scraps into a cool, colorful car for Fluffy or Fido using only a few materials you likely have on hand.
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Materials Needed
- recycled heavy-duty cardboard scraps
- ruler or straight edge
- measuring tape
- pencil or marker
- utility knife
- hot glue gun
- hot glue sticks
- strong duct tape
- non-toxic tempera craft paint, in desired colors
- several foam paintbrushes
- paint palette
Sketch + Cut Out Sides
Using a pencil or marker, draw a half-circle shape on a scrap of cardboard (Image A). Utilize any fold on the box so you have a nice, level base (Image B). Cut out the shape, then use it as a template to create the other side (Image C).
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Image A
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Image B
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Image C
Measure for Base + Roof
To create the base and roof of the car, measure along the bottom of the half circle to determine the length (Image A). Next, hold up each side of the car and measure the desired distance between the two pieces. We went with a 10-inch width (Image B).
Flynnside Out Productions
Image A
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Image B
Add Windows
Once both sides are sketched, draw windows onto the side of the car and cut them out with a utility knife. Use that to trace a template on the other side. This way, you'll have perfect symmetry on either side of the car.
Flynnside Out Productions
Measure, Score + Cut Base
With your 10-inch width in mind, add four more inches, which will allow for a two-inch lip on either side (Image A), and cut out. Then, with the bottom side up, lightly score the cardboard with a utility knife along the sides for easy folding (Image B).
Flynnside Out Productions
Image A
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Image B
Attach Base to Sides
To assemble, attach the base piece to the sides using duct tape (Image A) along the interior for reinforcement (Image B).
Flynnside Out Productions
Image A
Flynnside Out Productions
Image B
Cut Out Sunroof
Measure and mark the roof onto the cardboard (14-by-38 inches), then cut out a small sunroof. We used a small children's book as our template.
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Notch + Attach Roof
Notch the roof's two-inch lip to allow for the curve, then secure the sides, one at a time, to the roof using hot glue.
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Paint Cardboard
Once fully assembled, paint the interior of the car with a non-toxic tempera craft paint in your desired color, and let dry. Next, paint the exterior of the car in your favorite color, then let dry. Use cups of varying sizes to trace the wheels, then paint those, too.
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Ready to Play
Once the car is completely dry, set it out and watch your furry friend go wild. If they need some coaxing, toss in a few toys or treats.
