Iris folding

The iris foldingberet technique began in Holland, where it was made popular by local craftsmen. It is a method of laying out colored paper strips so that a clear spiral is obtained. If you look at the pictures made in this technique, you can see a great resemblance to the aperture of the camera.

How is iris folding created?

Initially, the Dutch masters used colored paper in their work, but over time the equipment improvedBut now, in addition to it, they also use cardboard and multi-colored ribbons. Elements of Iris folding can be found, in the form of decoration on a postcard, picture or collage, and can be an independent composition.

The master class on iris folding consists of several stages. First, a pattern is formed on thick paper, which is then cut out along contours. Then a special template is prepared. His model should match the model of the finished work. All parts of the pattern are marked with numbers so that the sequence of sticking color strips is clear. The template can display tips that indicate the color of the decor.

Next, cut the desired number of colored stripes. This should be done with the expectation that the leaf will fold several times to create density and bulk. Paper strips are glued from the side of the picture so that each next strip slightly covers the previous one. Hence the name of the technology, which in translation means "rainbow folding."

Learn to make schemes

This technique is very popular today, so templates for work can be easily found on the Internet. But they are also easy to make independently, using the stationery.: scissors, plain and colored paper, cardboard and glue.

• On a sheet in a square, you need to draw a square, the side of which is 14 cm. On each side you need to retreat 15 mm, putting a dot in the place of the indent. Then the points are connected, forming a smaller square. Then indented actions need to be repeated and again connected points. It is necessary to do this until a tiny square is left in the center of the scheme. This is an elementary scheme from which you can create different pictures. For example, you can form a Christmas ball on a postcard for the New Year holidays.
• It is necessary to take a cardboard and from its back side draw an even circle, about 12 cm in diameter. Then cut it along the contour. The scheme should be attached to the colored side of the cardboard with clips.
• From paper of different colors cut into strips. Since the width of the indent or the 1st step is 15 mm, it means that the width of the paper strip should be twice as wide. The length of the paper should correspond to the picture and have an extra centimeter in stock.
• Draw the strip with the help of a ruler. When cut, they should be folded in half. It is necessary to glue the strips onto the pattern so that their fold is directed to the center and does not extend beyond the limits of its portion, therefore only the ends of the strip can be smeared with glue. You need to move, without changing direction, it is better to follow the clockwise. When the picture is filled, the edges need to be cut, and then pasted on the wrong side with a blank cardboard.

This technique especially like the younger generation. Iris Folding opens up a whole world of fantasy for children, helping to create enchanting pictures: Christmas trees, balls, butterflies, flowers, animals, and more. etc. This technique changes the usual perception of the decor, helps to develop creativity and creative potential.