Template Issues

How to Make a Printable Sphere Template for Ornaments in PowerPoint

Maira Mehtab Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to find and use a printable PowerPoint template to create a sphere or half-sphere (globe-gore style) decorated with photographs for DIY Christmas ornaments.

Product: PowerPoint / Presentation Software
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Creating DIY 3D paper crafts, specifically photo-decorated sphere ornaments for Christmas and other holidays.
Observed behavior: The user needs a workable template with editable picture placeholders and clear instructions on assembling the intricate parts, particularly the challenging compass sections.

Before you start

Before you begin, ensure you have downloaded a globe-gore template file, have legal-size (8.5 x 14 inches) paper or cardstock ready in your printer, and have a sharp pair of scissors or a craft knife for cutting.

Solution 1Recommended

Customize and Assemble a Globe-Gore Template

Use a specialized PowerPoint globe-gore template with picture placeholders to design, print, and construct your 3D photo sphere.

A globe-gore template is specifically designed to take a flat 2D printout and allow it to be folded into a 3D sphere. Because the top and bottom poles (compass sections) converge closely, accurate cutting and careful folding are required to achieve a smooth sphere shape.

Open the Template

Download a PowerPoint globe-gore template and open it in your presentation software.

Insert Your Photos

Click on the editable picture placeholders provided in the template to insert your own photographs, or right-click the sample image and select 'Change Picture'.

Print on Legal-Size Paper

Load legal-size paper (8.5 x 14 inches) into your printer. Go to File > Print, ensure your paper size settings match, and print the slides.

Cut the Template

Carefully cut along the outer edges of the printed images using scissors. Take your time around the narrow compass sections at the top and bottom of the template.

Assemble the Sphere

Follow the template's included folding instructions to piece the gores together, using adhesive on the tabs to secure the 3D shape.

Assembly Tip: If you become confused by the compass sections, review any video tutorials or fully read the template instructions before gluing. Ensure all points align precisely at the poles before securing them.

Design and Print 3D Ornament Templates Easily with WPS Presentation

WPS Presentation provides a highly compatible and user-friendly interface to handle complex craft templates, like globe-gores and 3D shapes. You can effortlessly replace picture placeholders, adjust custom paper sizes, and print your DIY projects with precision.

1. Open the Template in WPS: Launch WPS Presentation and open your downloaded globe-gore template file.
2. Replace Placeholder Images: Right-click the sample images inside the template, choose 'Change Picture', and select the photos from your computer that you want to display on the ornament.
3. Adjust Page Settings: Navigate to the 'Design' tab and click 'Page Setup' to verify that the slide is configured for Legal-size printing.
4. Print the Design: Click the 'Print' icon in the top left corner, select your printer, double-check your media settings, and print the template.

Seamlessly compatible with Microsoft PowerPoint (.pptx) templatesIntuitive picture placeholder replacement tool for quick photo insertionCustom page setup options perfectly suited for legal-size or craft paper printingCompletely free and lightweight for smooth template editing

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of paper is best for printing sphere ornament templates?

It is highly recommended to use heavy cardstock or matte photo paper (typically legal size, 8.5 x 14 inches) instead of standard copy paper. This gives the assembled 3D ornament better durability and structural integrity.

Why are the compass sections of the sphere template so difficult to assemble?

The compass sections form the exact poles (top and bottom) of the sphere where multiple paper gores converge. They require very precise cutting and careful alignment so that all the points meet seamlessly without overlapping awkwardly.

Can I use standard letter-size paper instead of legal size for this template?

Yes, but you will need to scale down the template in your printer settings by selecting 'Fit to Page' or adjusting the scaling percentage. Be aware that this will result in a smaller final ornament.

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