How to Build a Pyramid

The Great Pyramids of Egypt and Central and South America have been the subject of speculation and fascination of humans throughout history. The treasures and the secrets that they hold are just part of the mystery that draws us to them. Their mathematical preciseness, their immensity, and the thousands of tons of stones moved by human hands alone all add to their fascinating existence.

The architects and engineers of the Great Pyramids are indeed true masters of their craft. However, you do not have to be a skilled mason or mathematician to build your own ancient wonder. All it takes is a little ingenuity, creativity, and a set of basic instructions to set you off on building your own pyramid.

Required Materials

plaster of Paris
wooden blocks
knife or craft knife
ice cube tray
petroleum jelly
paper
pencil
sand colored paint
paint sealer
glue

Steps to Build a Pyramid

Sketch out a design for your pyramid. Search for pictures of pyramids as a basis for your sketch. This project is based on the pyramids of Egypt which were built using blocks of stone. Use wooden blocks to make a temporary model and base your sketch on this.
Create the blocks by forming the plaster of Paris in ice cube trays. Liberally coat the trays with petroleum jelly before pouring the plaster of Paris to make it easier to remove the blocks once the plaster hardens.
Sand the edges of the cubes with sandpaper once it dries. Wrap the sandpaper around a block of wood to give you better control of the sandpaper when you smoothen the edges. Make sure that the edges are flat by using a level.
Start at the base of the pyramid and move up. Make sure that each level creates a step as the pyramid rises higher.
Paint the pyramid using a sand-colored paint to create the effect of an Egyptian pyramid.
Seal the paint with a sealant to help protect your pyramid model from wear and tear.

How to Do These Things

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