How to build a paper geodesic dome model

Models can be a great way to test building structures and if your thinking of constructing a geodesic dome building a paper model first is a great way to run through the construction

process. First download the geodesic paper model plans then follow these simple instructions to assemble your dome model:

After downloading and printing the dome plans, (you will need to print 8 copies to have enough panels for your dome) cut each triangle at the red dotted line. You should have 45

panel ‘A’ triangles and 30 panel ’B’ triangles.

Now fold all the edges along the black lines to form tabs on each side, these will be used to glue the panels together.

Glue together the panel ‘A’ triangles to form 5 hexagons and 5 half hexagons. Glue the remaining panel ‘B’ triangles to form 6 pentagons

Now glue five pentagons to the five half hexagons alternately, (see diagram below) then glue the five hexagons in the space between each pentagon and finally place the last

pentagon in the top.

You should now have a finished dome like the diagram below, don’t forget to glue your model to a stiff peace of card. I’ve drawn a red line to show the glue lines between pentagon

and hexagon panels.

Plans to build a paper geodesic dome

You will need to print 8 copies of the plans below to have enough panels for your dome model. To save the plans on your computer right click then select save as, print the plans (8

times) on A4 sheets of paper.

You need 45 panel A peaces and 30 panel B peaces for a 3v geodesic dome. For information on how to build your geodesic paper model see the Instructions page.