Fold and assemble the paper spectrometer
7 steps
Print and orient the template
Print the matching two sides of the template on cardstock. Confirm the dark light-blocking areas and slit pattern are present on the intended reverse side.
Check: The numbered windows and fold marks are legible and correctly aligned.
Companion guide, source references and reuse license
Cut the outer shape
Cut along the outer red or grayscale cutting lines. Keep the labeled tabs attached to the main body.
Check: Tabs B, C, D and E remain available for final closure.
Score and open the windows
Use a blunt tool to score the fold lines. Fold locally to cut the marked A1, A2 and A3 windows, then unfold the workpiece.
Check: The three openings follow their printed outlines without tearing nearby tabs.
Form the marked folds
Make mountain folds on the dotted lines and valley folds on the dashed lines according to the template legend.
Check: The body can close into shape without reversing a marked fold.
Fit the diffraction fragment
Prepare a small DVD-R fragment using the template illustration and separate the appropriate layers as shown there. Tape it at A3 in the indicated orientation.
Check: The fragment covers its intended opening and is firmly attached.
Make and mount the slit
Build the narrow slit from the reverse-side pattern and tape it over A2. Keep the opening straight, narrow and unobstructed.
Check: Only the designed slit admits light through that window.
Close and inspect the body
Align tabs B through E and tape or glue them. Inspect for unwanted light leaks. Use a diffuse indoor light source for an initial visual check; never aim this viewer at the Sun or a laser.
Check: The body is closed, the slit is visible and a spectrum can be sought without a hazardous light source.
Project credit: Public Lab and community contributors. Guide reuse: CERN-OHL-1.2. Upstream reference. Prepared with AI assistance for a TwinWorks-managed contributor; no physical build/test is claimed.