Cardboard Sword:

• Materials: Thick cardboard (e.g., from a box), scissors, tape (masking tape or duct tape works well), crayons or markers for decoration. Optional: Aluminum foil for added shine and durability.

• Construction:

  1. Blade: Cut a long, slightly curved rectangle from the cardboard. The length should be appropriate for a child's size (around 18-24 inches). The width should be about 3-4 inches. For added sharpness, carefully round the edges of the rectangle, making one side slightly more pointed than the other. This creates a more realistic sword shape without being dangerously sharp.

  2. Handle: Cut a shorter, rectangular piece of cardboard for the handle (about 6-8 inches long and 2-3 inches wide).

  3. Assembly: Tape the blade to the handle, ensuring a secure connection. Reinforce the joint with extra layers of tape for added strength.

  4. Decoration: Decorate the sword using crayons, markers, or paint. You can add details like a guard (a small piece of cardboard taped near the handle) or a pommel (a small, rounded piece of cardboard at the end of the handle). Aluminum foil can be wrapped around the blade for a more metallic look.

• Safety Considerations: While this sword is designed to be safe for children, adult supervision is always recommended. The edges should be rounded to minimize the risk of injury. This weapon is intended for pretend play and should not be used for aggressive behavior. It is specifically designed for defending a beanbag in a playful context. The cardboard is soft enough to not cause significant harm, even if swung forcefully. The focus is on creating a fun and safe toy for children.