How to build a sphere layer by layer
- Set the width. With Same size every way ticked, height and depth follow it.
- Keep Hollow ticked for a shell, or untick it for a solid ball.
- Start at layer 1, the bottom. Place the green blocks, using the pale blocks of the layer below to line up.
- Press Up (or the up arrow key) and build the next layer. The gold layer in the 3D preview shows where you are.
- Print all layers before you start if you like to work from paper.
How the sphere is worked out
Each block is tested at its centre against the sphere (or ellipsoid) with the size you set. For a hollow shape, a block is kept when at least 1 of its 6 neighbours (above, below, and the 4 sides) is outside the shape. That gives a shell that is sealed: you cannot see through it from inside, even at the steep parts near the top and bottom.
Tips
- Build a pillar up the middle first to mark the centre, then remove it at the end.
- Odd diameters have a single top block, which looks neater.
- For half a sphere, use the dome generator. For one flat ring, use the circle generator.
More tools
Questions
How do I build a sphere in Minecraft?
Set the diameter, then build one layer at a time from the bottom. The grid shows the current layer from above, with the layer below shown pale so you can line them up. Use the Up button to move to the next layer.
How many blocks are in a sphere?
The counter shows the total for the size you set. You can switch between hollow and solid to compare.
Can I make an egg or a stretched sphere?
Yes. Untick Same size every way and set a different height. This makes an ellipsoid, for example 21 wide, 31 tall and 21 deep for an egg.
What does hollow mean here?
Hollow keeps only the outer shell, 1 block thick, with no gaps you could see through from inside. Solid fills the whole ball.
Can I print every layer?
Yes. Print all layers puts every layer on one sheet, with the block count under each.