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To build a 6 inch cube
out of corrugated cardboard, we'll use a utility knife,
a square 36 inch metal ruler, and hot glue.
Cardboard has linear grain which should be avoided when cutting.
To produce consistent edge qualities,
start with a long diagonal cut, pulling the knife slowly and steadily through no
more than half the board's depth
with each pass.
The cube size will be cut from
a long strip that's 5 and 7/8 inches wide to allow for the
cardboard thickness
when assembling a side.
Measure twice,
marking all dimensions with the knife, not a marker or pencil
A uniform strip will provide for identical sides.
And cutting it on the diagonal
ensures uniform and quality from any direction.
The end of the strip must be carefully square
so you can generate the first of 4 equal sides.
From the squared end of the strip, mark again with the knife at 5 and 7/8 inches . . .
and cut the first cube side.
There's no need to measure the other sides. In fact it's best to use the first
side as a template so all 4 sides will be identical.
Carefully align the sides. If one is too big or too small,
replace it before moving on to assembly.
The sides will overlap edge to face. Place one against the other
making sure they are flush.
Hold the first two sides together for gluing on the inside only
where it will not be seen.
Rotate the two sides to place the third the same way.
Flush the edge and glue.
Each face of the cube form should present consistent edge to face
connections.
Place your last side accordingly
so the cube will be square and symmetrical.
Once the edges are properly placed, glue the last two joints.
The cubes fifth side or bottom
will be inserted between the sides. Create a perfect fit by squaring the
sides then marking each twice on the inside.
The marks will guide the ruler.
If the bottom is reoriented to the sides
as it had been marked, it will fit tightly and fit flush to the outside edges.
Some drops of glue at the joints will hold it in place.
The cubes top will overlap its sides,
so mark its dimensions from the outside and cut it out.
Check the top's fit and maintain its orientation.
Glue two corners first so the glue doesn't squeeze out.
When that glue is stable, glue the other corners
and let the glue run into the joint.
If a cube is successful it matches others of its kind.