What Is Iris Folding?
1 January 2004
4 Comments
Iris folding is a technique that originated in Holland. Color coordinated strips of folded paper are taped into place over a pattern, creating a spiralling design that resembles the iris of an eye or camera. Originally, Dutch crafters would cut their strips from envelopes with patterned interiors, but now it is common to use lightweight papers including those used for origami to create iris folded designs.
The basic supplies you need to get started are minimal, and mostly made up of items paper crafters have in their stash: cardstock, lightweight papers, a paper trimmer or ruler, scissors, tape, and a pattern.
Want to give iris folding a try? Click here for the pattern and instructions for the simple design shown on this page.
I wasn’t sure what Iris Folding was and had read other sites explanations, but I found this to be one of the best explanations and now I really enjoy doing this technique.
Thanks
oh what stunning things you can do with the iris folding! it’s amazing! after this is went in search of other patterns and i had so much fun! i even combined some different patterns and i made one on my own! i made a dolphin jumping out of some waves with a sun shining! this isn’t something i would do all the time, but it certainly has it’s place when you need that extra ooomf!
Thank you for this Lisa! I had heard of Iris Folding but didn’t know what it was. I was so excited when I found it on this site, and what great instructions, explanations, and patterns!! Now I know all about Iris Folding and how to do it, thanks to you! Thank you so much for providing this service!
Cindy
I never heard of Iris folding but have seen it here and there. I would never have guessed that it was from Holland. It really looks so Japanese.