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How to Make a 3D Starfish Model

Starfish, with their distinctive star shape, are actually related to sea urchins and sand dollars, not fish. According to National Geographic, starfish, which scientists now call "sea stars," have bony skin and are well-known for being able to regenerate limbs. Make a 3D starfish model with heavy paper and beads to understand more about this creature that uses sea water to pump nutrients through its body.

Things You'll Need

Printer
Paper
Scissors
Glue
Card stock
Paper plate
Colored plastic beads

Instructions

- 1
  Print out a free 3D star template from a website such as Enchanted Learning or Pennywise Arts. Cut out the template with scissors.
- 2
  Fold all the lines on the paper so the star becomes three-dimensional. If you use a template that separates the star's arm, piece them together first to form the star shape. Then fold the lines and glue to secure.
- 3
  Squeeze glue around the edges of the star template. Place the template over the card stock. Glue it in place but do not press the folds down or you lose the three-dimensional quality of the starfish. Allow it to dry completely.
- 4
  Cut out the starfish with the card stock attached. Add some glue to a paper plate. Dip a red bead into the glue so the whole area gets the glue.
- 5
  
  Use a photograph of a starfish as a reference for the bead colors.
  
  Press the bead onto the paper starfish. Continue dipping and arranging the beads all over the entire starfish. Allow it to dry before moving.

Animals & Science