I came across Iris Folding in cardmaking, when, once again I was looking for a new project for my class at the senior center. I found a website about iris folding:
It offered a variety of different templates for all types of projects for many different occasions and seasons.
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| This is a card I am currently working on. |
Wikipedia decribes iris folding as a paper craft that involves folding strips of colored paper in such a way as to form a design. The center of the design forms an iris; much like that of the center of a camera lens.
Iris folding originated in Holland, where early crafters made their designs using patterned paper cut from the inside of envelopes. Today materials such as scrapbooking paper, origami paper, wrapping paper, magazines or even ribbon are used.
The directions for iris folding require that you fold strips of paper to give them a straight edge. I however, use my paper cutter to make straight and even strips.
It also saves paper, since it doesn't have to be doubled.
Quite a lot of cellophane tape is used, so I break off a large strip, stick it to the edge of my work table and cut small pieces as needed.
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| This is the pattern I used. |
It's a lot of fun; like putting the pieces of a puzzle together.
Each strip of paper has a number that determines where it goes.
When the area is covered, the original pattern is removed. The front of the card is ready to be finished.
Finished card with embellishments. The back of the card front is covered with cardstock to give it a more finished look.
Here are some of the cards we've done in class:
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| Valentine's Day |
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| St. Patrick's Day |
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| Christmas |
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| Autumn |
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| Father's Day |
I use a dental pick (available at pharmacies) for many tasks. When my fingers are too big to move tiny objects into place on a greeting card, I will use the pick to move them. It also slides easily under two pieces of paper that need to be taken apart. It helps to move items into place when taking photographs. When I'm working with beads, I often will move or pick up the beads with the pick. 
The tweezer is used also to pick up beads and move them into place, as well. I also like to use it when I need to add glue to the back of delicate die cuts and place them on a card. 
When my bone folder is not handy, I use a wallpaper seam roller. I fact, I probably use it more than the bone folder. Its easier to hold, and more pressure can be applied with it. When adhering two papers together, I use the roller over the card to make sure it sticks. My only caution is, when stamping, make sure the ink is completely dry before rolling over it, to avoid smears.
When the area is covered, the original pattern is removed. The front of the card is ready to be finished. 
