Objective
Using a cut-out image, fill in the image with folded strips of paper laid clockwise or counter-wise and taped in place around the image opening, working inwards until completed with a solid center, the iris of the eye. The center is usually most effectively finished with holographic paper or a reflective metallic. The finished project looks just like a quilting technique and suitable fabric can also be used. In fact, this paper craft will grow in leaps and bounds as we all find great products that will fold tightly. We have worked with great success with the sheets of lightweight metal we have available for you. Japanese Origami paper is fabulous.

Suggested Use
Create greeting cards and framed pictures. This paper craft would also make an outstanding page in a scrapbook by using a photograph as the central focus and working in towards it. A recent publication, Iris Folded Greetings Cards Item IRIS_3011, shows how to effectively fold photograph images.

Basic Supplies

• Firm cardstock to use for the cut-out image.
• 2 Patterns of the cut-out design so one can be cut out to leave the opening required for the pattern.  This will be laid on the cardstock, traced and cut out by you.
• Preferably, if available, purchase the die cuts with the opening ready cut. We have linked our die cuts to the appropriate books and the books to the die cuts so you can easily determine if a die cut is available for the book you are purchasing.
• Craft knife with a sharp pointed blade
• Office tape
• Light weight paper, metal or fabric for the folding and creation of the design.

Options For Template

• We have referred above to using 2 patterns of the cut-out design. By purchasing any of the books we carry, you can photo copy the patterns in duplicate from the Book. Use one to cut out the image, you now have your template. Use the other as the pattern to lay down over the cut-out for the paper strip placement guide. After you have completed a couple of cards you will realize that laying the paper strips in place has a sequence and you can then go forward and fill in any template.
• Brass embossing templates. We have a selection of the most suitable templates and have created kits which include the brass template and an iris folding layout. You will need to cut out the design using the brass template. Paper is not included in these kits.

Technique
Layers of strips of folded paper are taped in place behind the cut-out opening in a card. You proceed in a clockwork or counter-clockwise motion layering the strips and working inwards until you are left with only a small centre. Lay in an interesting piece of paper in that central area and the design is complete. This resembles a quilted look.

Simply put, when you first start out you need an image outline template to cut out of cardstock. You then lay the pattern for the folded sequence of paper down on front of your card. Turn over and tape the strips in place to the back of the card, following the pattern. Remove the pattern when you are finished and you have the most interesting of cards but yet very simple to create. Place a background of matching cardstock on the inside to cover the "workings".

Finishing Tips:

We have a few suggestions to take your creations out of the ordinary.

• Use a Krylon Leafing Pen to edge the fold of the papers before you use them. This will leave a metallic edging which will cover any unsightly and unprofessional looking white edges which appear when you fold paper and the inner white core is exposed because the colored surface actually splits.
• The same "white" edge problem can be overcome by using a glitter glue and running it down the fold.  This will leave a sparkle edge accenting the paper colors.
• Try laying a thin fancy lace over your paper between folds, preferably with a small scalloped edge.
• We have also layered rice paper between our paper folding, be sure to tear the rice paper, not fold it, and tear by running a bead of water with a brush in a straight line and gently pull the rice paper apart. (Mulberry Paper)
• Layering the papers to lay as flat as possible against each other is necessary so your card does not "bulge". We have two tips for success. Firstly, when you fold your papers, only fold under a minimal amount, about 1/8". Secondly, use a bone folder to crease the papers tightly.

These are just a few tips that we use to make our work different, interesting and professional.