These diagrams will show you how to make a traditional origami iris. This will require a little bit of origami experience and the model begins with a frog base. If you’re new to paper folding we definitely recommend that you review our Beginner’s Guide first to learn all the basic folds and techniques.
Step 1) Fold and unfold the paper in half both ways.
Step 2) Turn the paper over.
Step 3) Fold and unfold the paper in half both ways.
Step 4) Close the paper up into a Square Base using the existing creases.
Step 5) Open up one of the flaps on the top and Squash Fold it flat.
Step 6) Fold the flaps over to get access to the other 3 flaps and Squash Fold each of them like you did in step 5.
Step 7) Make a Petal Fold along the dotted lines.
Step 8) Make another Petal Fold just like in step 7 on the other 3 sections of the model.
Step 9) Fold the top flap of paper up along the dotted line, then repeat on the other 3 sections.
Step 10) Fold both sides in to the centre along the dotted lines, then repeat on the other 3 sections.
Step 11) Fold the four flaps of paper at the top down to form the iris petals while opening up the model to a 3D shape.
The complete iris
What did you think about this origami iris? Let us know in the comments! If you had trouble folding this you can find much, much more detailed instructions for this model in our book.
