Unit 5 · Project 3
Standing 3D Letter
Now you cover, decorate, and finish your letter. The surface treatment is where your personal story comes in — you can cover it with paper, fabric, paint, found objects, collage, or any combination of materials. The decoration should reflect something about you or tell a story. This is a mixed-media sculpture, so there are no rules about what materials you can use as long as the letter remains structurally sound and can stand on its own.
Objectives
- 1Letter must stand freestanding without support
- 2All surfaces covered — no exposed armature visible
- 3Surface decoration must be intentional and tell a story or reflect your identity
- 4Letter must be at least 8 inches tall
- 5Finished piece must be display-ready
Materials
- Your completed armature
- Surface materials of your choice (paper, fabric, paint, found objects, etc.)
- Adhesives appropriate to your materials
- Sealant if needed for durability
Tips & Techniques
1Work in sections — cover one face completely before moving to the next
2Mod Podge is great for sealing paper surfaces and adding a slight sheen
3Step back frequently to check proportions and coverage from a distance
4Document your process with photos — you'll need them for your midterm reflection
Lesson Videos
Typography as Sculpture
10 minHow to design, scale, and cut letter forms for 3D standing structures.
3D Letter Armature Construction
12 minBuilding the internal support structure for your standing 3D letter.