Print this free Arched Elf Door papercraft, color it, cut it out and fold it into a little prop for your elf. Set it on a windowsill, a bookcase or next to the toothbrush cup. Build time is about 20 minutes.
✂️ About This Papercraft
Arched Elf Door papercraft: This arched door stands up on its own and has a little room behind it that shows when you flip the door open. Size: Door approx. 6.4 × 10 cm (2.5 × 3.9 in), free-standing.
At a Glance
●●○ medium
about 20 minutes
Door approx. 6.4 × 10 cm, free-standing
1 × A4
- Printer
- Heavy cardstock (65–110 lb) recommended
- Scissors
- Glue stick
- Colored pencils
- Ruler and an empty ballpoint pen for scoring
📐 Step-by-Step Instructions
🖨️ Important: print at 100% (“Actual size”), not “Fit to page”.
━━━ solid = cut · ━ · ━ dash-dot = mountain fold, fold backward · - - - dashed = valley fold, fold forward · ▒ gray area = glue
💡 Tips & Common Mistakes
- Let the glue dry before you fold the side pieces back. Then the door stands up straight.
- Medium build: Plan on about 20 minutes. Kids can color and glue while a grown-up handles the tricky cuts.
- Print at 100% (actual size), not “fit to page.” Otherwise the measurements and tabs will not line up.
- Small paper pieces are not for children under 3. Craft and play only with supervision.
🎭 How the Elf Plays With It
Set it on a windowsill, a bookcase or next to the toothbrush cup. A little elf letter looks great leaning against the door. Snap a photo of the finished piece in its spot. It makes a nice December keepsake.
📦 Matching printable set: Arrival
Goes Well With
More papercraft from “Elf Doors”:
Your Benefits at PureSketchy:
- Completely Free: Every elf printable with no sign-up, no newsletter, no subscription.
- Made for Coloring: Clear black lines – kids color everything themselves.
- Your Elf, Your Name: There is always space to write in your own elf's name.
- Everything in One Place: Prank ideas, papercraft props, printable sets, letters and guides all fit together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How big is the “Arched Elf Door” papercraft?
According to the template: Door approx. 6.4 × 10 cm (2.5 × 3.9 in), free-standing. An elf is about the size of a yogurt cup.
How long does it take, and what age is it for?
About 20 minutes. From about age 7 with a parent's help, and many kids manage it alone by age 9.
Can the door really stand without a wall?
Yes. The two side pieces fold backward and work like little supports.
Which paper and glue do I need?
Regular printer paper works, but heavy cardstock (65–110 lb) is sturdier. A glue stick is all you need for the tabs.
Is the download free?
Yes, every printable on PureSketchy is 100% free for personal use, preschools and schools – no sign-up needed.
Is there a German version?
Yes! You can find the German version at Wichteltür mit Rundbogen.