The pyramids of Egypt are one of the world’s greatest wonders. Hundreds of years after those pyramids were built, scientists are still intrigued by how exactly the pyramids were built. It may not be possible to build the exact structure of an Egyptian pyramid, but it is possible to create a similar, scaled-down replica of the real thing with little effort.
Materials
- Modeling material: Plaster of Paris, wood, clay, or Styrofoam
- Paint
- Paint sealant
- Ice cube trays
- Plastic crates
- Plastic wrap
- Glue
- Petroleum jelly
Tools
- Tape measure
- Pen or pencil
- Paper
- Sandpaper
- Knife
Instructions
- Create and sketch a design for your pyramid; consult pictures and images of real pyramids to guide your drawing.
- Determine what materials you would like to use to build the pyramid. Plaster of Paris and clay are the easiest materials to work with, although wood and Styrofoam are good materials to use for a project of this nature. If using plaster, wood, or Styrofoam, a good adhesive glue is necessary.
- Start your pyramid at the base; for a permanent pyramid fixture, secure the base with rebar or cement onto a smooth, flat surface. If using plaster of Paris to build the pyramid, use a plastic element such as ice cube trays or plastic crates to form the pyramid blocks, depending on your pyramid’s scale.
- Coat the foundation with petroleum jelly for small ice cube trays or plastic wrap for large plastic crates before applying the plaster. This will make the cubes or crates easier to remove once the plaster hardens.
- Sand the edges of the pyramid when dry and hardened to give a smooth appearance. Use a sharp knife to trim away edges if styrofoam or clay was used. With a level, ensure the edges are flat and not bumpy.
- Egyptian pyramids have natural sandy color, but painting your pyramid is completely optional.
- Seal the project with a sealant, especially if the model is painted; the sealant will protect the paint finish and guard the pyramid from damage.
Tips and warning
- For ease and convenience, by a prefabricated pyramid model kit. This is commercially available and includes all the necessary items for building DIY pyramids.
- Wear a protective mask if using the plaster of Paris to protect your lungs from breathing in the dry particles of the plaster. This article will cause breathing issues or complicate existing ones. If children will be working on this project, consider using an alternative material.
- Use sharp cutting tools with caution, especially if children are involved in the creation of the pyramid; children should be supervised by an able adult while working on a pyramid model.