Variations
What prints with the starting settings
| Paper | US Letter — 215.9 × 279.4 mm (8.5 × 11 in) |
|---|---|
| Shape | Triangular prism |
| Edge length | 1.97″ (reduced if needed to fit the page) |
| Margins | 0.236″ top, 0.236″ sides |
| Line weight | 0.18 mm (bold 0.35 mm) |
| Print setting | Scale 100% / Actual size |
A prism you can hold
A prism has the same cross-section all the way along. In a triangular prism that cross-section is a triangle, so the solid has two triangle ends joined by three rectangles. Folding one up from a net shows clearly why: the three rectangles wrap around the triangle like a sleeve.
Assembly
- Print on card at 100% / Actual size and cut out along the outer line.
- Score all the fold lines.
- Fold the three rectangles into a triangular tube and glue the long tab.
- Fold in each end triangle and glue its tabs.
Maths with the model
- Surface area: add the areas of three squares and two equilateral triangles; check against the area of the flat net.
- Volume: the triangle’s area times the length.
- Comparing solids: put it beside the square pyramid and a cube and compare their faces, edges and vertices.
Craft uses
Small triangular boxes make good favour boxes, sweet packs and gift wrap for long thin presents. Print on patterned card or decorate the net before folding.
Printing
Card stock of 160–220 gsm gives crisp edges. Print at 100% so every edge is the length you set.
More box template sheets
Frequently asked questions
What are the faces of a triangular prism?
Five: two triangles at the ends and three rectangles around the sides. It has 9 edges and 6 vertices.
Are the side faces square?
In this net, yes: the prism's length equals the triangle's side, so every edge is 50 mm by default and the side faces are squares.
What is the largest size that fits?
About 65 mm edges on Letter or A4. Set a larger value and the net is reduced to fit the page.
Can I make it into a box?
Yes. Glue all the tabs except those on one triangle end, which becomes a lid that tucks in. Card stock makes a sturdy little gift box.
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