Folding Paper Globes
foldingglobes.com|92 points|16 comments|by dango2506|Jul 29, 2026
DIY Folding Paper Spheres
MapScaping provides a collection of expensive completely free, print-ready templates for creating folding globes. These resources allow users to download, print, and assemble 3D models that are highly versatile.
"Transform flat maps into spherical realities through simple folding techniques."
🛠️ Customization Options
Beyond the standard templates, users can utilize the custom globe builder to:
- Modify the overall shape.
- Add personalized pins to specific locations.
Technical Configuration Example
{
"globe_settings": {
"template": "spherical",
"custom_pins": true,
"scale": "1:1000000"
}
}
🌌 Available Templates
The Solar System
The collection includes various celestial bodies. The geometry of these spheres can be understood via the formula for surface area: .
| Category | Celestial Bodies |
|---|---|
| Stars & Moons | The Sun, The Moon, Io, Europa, Titan |
| Planets | Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Pluto |
| Other | Ceres |
Earth Perspectives & Environment
These globes focus on the physical and biological state of our planet:
- Visuals: Earth from Space, Earth at Night, and the "Blue Marble."
- Nature: Living Green Earth, Biomes of the World, and Ocean Life.
- Climate/Weather: Ocean Temperature, Land Temperature, Snow, Ice, Clouds, and Rainfall.
- Atmospheric/Physical: Saharan Dust, Aerosols, and Earth Without Water.
- Humanity: Population Density.
Data-Driven Globes
These specialized maps visualize specific global datasets:
- Tectonic Plates
- World Heritage Sites
- Time Zones
- Meteorite Landings
- Volcanoes of the World
- A Century of Great Earthquakes
🚀 Assembly Process
Your Completion Checklist:
- Select a template from MapScaping.
- Print using a high-quality printer.
- Carefully fold along the indicated lines.
- (Optional) Add custom pins via the builder.