Some example domes built with hubs

How many hubs?

26 in total.

• 6 x 5-way hubs

• 20 x 6-way hubs

When you build the dome, the bottom ring of 6-ways will only have four populated sockets. We use 6-ways here so that people can add another layer to their dome if they want. You can also use two ball connectors in the spare sockets to connect your dome to your base.

How many sticks?

65 in total.

• 30 x Short sticks

• 35 x Long sticks

Stick lengths

Our calculator tells you the lengths of stick you need for a given diameter.

If you're using a regular dome calculator you need to take off 88mm from each length it gives you to account for the space that the hubs and ball connectors take up at the points. (Most calculators give you the point-to-point distances.)

Units:

• Use millimetres as your unit for accuracy.

• Using inches? – work to 1/16 of an inch.

• A = 0.5 x diameter (radius).

• B = 0.425 x diameter.

• C = 0.263 x diameter.

• D = 0.224 x diameter.

Base

• The base ring is made up of 10 x Longs and 10 x 6-way hubs.

• All of the base hubs are on the same plane.

Build process

• Start in the middle and work your way out connecting as you go. The dome will be self-supporting as you go; growing up out of the ground. If you can't connect then you need to lift the hub above to enable the connection to be made. Our core guides explain more.

How many people?

We recommend two people to build the dome though it's possible to do it on your own. If you're going to lift and move the dome then four people is probably the minimum you need, although if it's a small dome you might get away with less.