How to Use Cardboard Tubing to Make Faux Columns
- 1). Measure, using a tape measure, and cut the cardboard tubes to length with a reciprocating saw. Set the cut end from the tube onto a sheet of 3/4 inch thick medium density fibercore, also known as MDF. Repeat the tracing process for the top and bottom of each column you intend to build.
- 2). Use a geometric compass to draw circles 2 inches wider than the inside of the tube on the MDF, one for the top and bottom of each column. Cut all of the circles from the MDF using a band saw. Steer the MDF through the blade, staying on the line for a clean circle.
- 3). Center one of the smaller circles on top of one larger circle. Glue and nail the circles together with 8 1 1/4 inch pin nails evenly spaced around the circle. Fit one of these pairs of MDF circles into each end of each tube. Staple through the tube into the edge of the MDF with 1-inch wide crown staples, one every 2 inches.
- 4). Cut 3-inch wide strips of 1/4 inch masonite on a table saw along the 8-foot edge of the sheet of masonite, one for each column. Wrap a string around one column, just below the circular MDF cap, marking the spot where the end of the string overlaps. Cut the masonite to length, one piece for the top and bottom of each column, the same length as the string.
- 1). Glue and staple one strip around each column at each end, up against the circular cap, using wide crown staples, one every 2 inches.
- 2). Tear muslin into 6-to-8 inch-wide strips. Mix latex paint 1 part white school glue with 2 parts latex paint in your choice of colors. Apply a coat of this mixture to the face of the column and press muslin strips into the glue/paint mix. Apply a coat of the mix over the top of the muslin.
- 3). Continue adding muslin pieces to cover the entire column. Use the paint brush to press the muslin into the details around the caps and masonite bands at the top and bottom of each column. Spread the muslin as smooth as possible. Allow the paint/glue mix to dry to touch before using the columns.
