Q&A for How to Build 3D Models of Animal and Plant Cells

It depends, because plant cells have more functions, but it is easier to distribute the organelles onto a flat, rectangular surface. The animal cell has less functions, but it is more difficult to distribute it, since it is circular.

It all depends on the materials you make them out of. Paper would be too fragile, but cardboard, plastic, or other durable materials may be stronger.

Thermal balls. These can vary in their sizes, which will help you to get the right size needed for the nucleus and the nucleolus.

You can use an X-acto knife or any sharp, flat tool that will cut it straight enough.

Just use pva glue mixed into paint from a bottle. You can buy these from home bargains or hobby shops.

You can use little bits of cotton for ribosomes and medium size Styrofoam or medium size cotton balls and then be creative.

If you handle it carefully it will last at least a year. I made one that lasted a year and a half. Obviously if you make it out of edible materials it will not last so long.

If you are quick about it, it will take you one to two hours when using craft items; if you want to be particular about items, it may take five to 15 hours.

Try orange slices. They have always looked like mitochondria to me.

You can paint each thing whatever colors you wish to use.

If that's what you want to do, go for it. No one can stop you from expressing yourself artistically, as long as you are delivering an accurate representation.

You could use a piece of fruit, such as an orange or melon, so long as your model is for a short-term project.

Use items that you would have never thought of using, or that you have never heard of. You can also always do an internet search of creative cell models and see what comes up.

Be creative. A candy store might be a good place to start.

Yes, you can use whatever materials you would like.

Yes. Just cut it with an X-acto knife. It will work almost exactly the same as a styrofoam sheet.

I would recommend that it be at least the size of a basketball. It should be big enough that you can clearly label your organelles and add depth.

Yes, it's possible, if you work at it every day.

Try using slime instead. You can make your own and make it clear, or any color you want. Consult Make Clear Slime for directions.

You can use modelling clay or play dough to craft a circle or whatever shape you need.

You can use clay, play dough, Styrofoam balls, and paint for color. You can get these materials from craft stores.

The nucleus is the main organelle, while the nucleolus is the sub-organelle. The nucleus is membrane-bound, while the nucleolus is not. The nucleus contains DNA, while the nucleolus contains RNA.

The cells can be whatever color you like. Just as long as the structure is correct, you can be as creative with color as you want! You can construct a rainbow model if you wish.

You could use slime instead. It's a little bit hard to get into place, but it will do the job!