Origami Iris Instructions and Diagram

Origami Iris, undeniably a sight to behold, captivates with its delicate and lifelike appearance. The well-shaped petals and intricate stamen contribute to its charm. The presence of white accents in both the center and petals adds a touch of realism to this stunning flower.

Don’t be discouraged by its seemingly complex nature; folding an origami iris is within your reach. With careful attention to instructions and utilizing the accompanying pictures when needed, you’ll master this captivating creation in no time. Get ready to immerse yourself in the art of folding an origami iris that will leave everyone in awe.

Difficulty Level: Medium

Shall we begin our origami iris adventure? Let’s go!

Step 1: Preparing the Perfect Square Paper

To begin your origami iris journey, ensure you have a square piece of origami paper. However, if you only have regular 8.5×11 paper available, don’t worry! Follow these simple instructions to transform it into a square sheet.

1. Place your 8.5×11 paper in front of you in a landscape orientation.
2. Take the top right corner of the paper and fold it diagonally towards the left edge, aligning it perfectly to create a triangle shape.
3. Now, trim off the excess rectangular portion of the paper along the bottom edge of the triangle, leaving you with a triangular shape.
4. Unfold the triangle back to its original rectangular shape.
5. Finally, carefully cut along the folded line that connects the top right corner to the bottom left corner. This will separate the rectangular portion, leaving you with a square piece of paper.

And there you have it! You’ve successfully transformed your regular 8.5×11 paper into a square sheet, ready for the origami iris folding adventure. Let’s move on to the next step!

Step 2: Creating a Central Fold

Now that you have your square piece of origami paper ready, let’s proceed with the folding process. Take the paper and fold it in half diagonally, bringing the top corner down to meet the bottom corner. Ensure that the corners align perfectly, creating a central fold that divides the paper into two equal triangular halves. This precise fold will serve as a fundamental reference point for the subsequent steps of crafting your origami iris. Great job! Let’s move on to the next step.

Step 3: Establishing a Secondary Fold

Continuing the folding process, take the square paper with the central fold and fold it in half once again. This time, fold the left corner over to meet the right corner. Ensure that the corners align precisely, creating a secondary fold that divides the paper into two smaller rectangular halves. This fold further refines the shape of your origami iris and prepares it for the subsequent folding steps. You’re making excellent progress! Let’s proceed to the next step.

Step 4: Engaging in a Squash Fold

Now, let’s delve into a squash fold technique to add depth and detail to your origami iris. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Identify the upper layer of the paper, which should be the side facing up after the previous folds.
2. Open the flap of the upper layer, revealing the inner part of the paper.
3. With precision, squash the right corner of the upper layer, folding it towards the bottom corner. As you do this, make sure to crease the sides of the paper to secure the fold.
4. Apply even pressure and flatten the paper, effectively transforming the shape into a squashed form.

By executing this squash fold, you’re creating intricate layers and giving your origami iris a more realistic appearance. Well done! Let’s continue unfolding the beauty of this creation in the next step.

Step 5: Flipping the Figure Over

Now, let’s transition to the next stage of your origami iris creation. Carefully turn the figure over, following the visual guide provided. This action ensures that you are working on the appropriate side for the upcoming steps. By flipping the figure over, you set the foundation for further intricate folding techniques that will bring your origami iris to life. Enjoy this moment as we continue to shape your stunning creation!

Step 6: Expanding the Squash Fold to the Left Flap

Let’s enhance the intricate details of your origami iris by performing a squash fold on the left flap. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Identify the left flap of your figure.
2. Stand the left flap vertically, lifting it upward.
3. Open up the flap, revealing the inner part of the paper.
4. With a delicate touch, squash the flap down, ensuring that the creases align correctly to form the desired shape.
5. Apply gentle pressure to flatten the paper and secure the squash fold.

This additional squash fold on the left flap contributes to the intricate structure of your origami iris. Take your time and ensure each fold is precise. With each step, your origami iris is becoming more captivating. Well done! Let’s proceed to the next step and continue shaping this elegant creation.

Step 7: Elevating and Squashing the Upper Layer on the Right Side

In this step, we will focus on lifting and squashing the upper layer on the right side. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Locate the upper layer on the right side of your figure.
2. Gently lift up this upper layer, creating space underneath.
3. If needed, you can use your finger to open up a pocket by gently inserting it under the upper layer.
4. Once the pocket is created or if it is already present, squash down the upper layer carefully, ensuring that the creases align properly.
5. Apply gentle pressure to flatten the paper and secure the squash fold.

By performing this step, you’re adding depth and dimension to your origami iris. Take your time and make sure the folds are well-defined. Your origami iris is blossoming beautifully! Let’s proceed to the next step and continue crafting this masterpiece.

Step 8: Squashing the Remaining Three Flaps

Now, it’s time to bring uniformity to your origami iris by squashing the remaining three flaps. Follow the instructions below:

1. Focus on the remaining three flaps of your figure.
2. Lift up each flap, one by one, creating space underneath.
3. If necessary, use your finger to open up pockets by gently inserting it under each flap.
4. Squash down each flap carefully, ensuring the creases align properly and the paper lies flat.
5. Repeat this process for all three remaining flaps.

By squashing these flaps, you’re achieving balance and symmetry in your origami iris. Take your time to ensure each fold is precise and the model begins to resemble the desired shape. Your origami iris is taking shape beautifully! Well done!

Step 9: Rotating the Model Upside Down

In this step, all you need to do is rotate the model until it is completely upside down. This simple rotation allows you to work on the next set of instructions with ease and ensures that you maintain the correct orientation of your origami iris. Take a moment to rotate the model accordingly, and you’re ready to proceed to the next steps. Great job so far!

 

Step 10: Creating a Fold and Unfold

To add further structure to your origami iris, we’ll perform a fold and unfold technique. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Take your origami iris figure and fold it in half along the center crease, bringing the top portion down to meet the bottom portion.
2. Once the fold is complete, gently unfold the figure back to its original position.

This fold and unfold sequence reinforces the existing creases and helps prepare the paper for the subsequent steps. It’s amazing how a simple folding technique can contribute to the intricacy of your origami iris. Well done! Let’s move on to the next steps and continue the creation process.

Step 11: Folding and Unfolding the Upper Edges

In this step, we’ll focus on the upper left and right edges of your origami iris. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Take the upper left corner of your figure and fold it towards the center, aligning it precisely. Repeat the same with the upper right corner, folding it towards the center as well.
2. Once you’ve achieved the desired folds, gently unfold the upper left and right edges back to their original positions.

This folding and unfolding action helps establish reference creases for the subsequent steps. It’s remarkable how these precise movements contribute to the overall shape of your origami iris. Great work! Let’s continue unfolding the beauty of this creation in the following steps.

Step 12: Squash Folding the Pocket and Folding Up the Pointy Flap

In this step, we will focus on squash folding the pocket and folding up the pointy flap. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Locate the pocket in the middle of your origami iris.
2. Pull down the pocket gently from the middle, while simultaneously creasing the sides inward. This action will create a small, pointy flap.
3. Once the flap is formed, carefully fold it upward, ensuring that the crease aligns properly.

By performing these folds, you’re adding intricate details and shaping your origami iris further. Take your time and ensure each fold is precise. Your origami iris is coming to life with its unique characteristics. Great job! Let’s move on to the next steps and continue the creation process.

Step 13: Squash Folding the Remaining Pockets and Folding Up their Pointy Flaps

To add consistency to your origami iris, it’s time to squash fold the remaining three pockets and fold up their pointy little flaps. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Identify the three remaining pockets on your origami iris.
2. One by one, pull down each pocket gently from the middle, creasing the sides inward to create a small, pointy flap.
3. Once the flap is formed, carefully fold it upward, aligning the crease properly.
4. Repeat this process for all three remaining pockets, ensuring each fold is precise.

By completing these folds, you’re adding uniformity and defining the intricate details of your origami iris. Take your time to ensure each fold is well-executed. As you progress, your origami iris is blossoming beautifully. Great work!

 

Step 14: Folding the Upper Layer of the Left Flap to the Right

In this step, we’ll focus on folding the upper layer of the left flap to the right, creating a blank side. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Locate the left flap of your origami iris.
2. Take the upper layer of the left flap and fold it to the right, aligning it precisely.
3. Ensure that the fold is firm and secure, creating a blank side with a clean surface.

By folding the upper layer of the left flap, you’re adjusting the structure of your origami iris and refining its appearance. Take your time to make the fold as neat as possible. Great job! Let’s move on to the next steps and continue the creation process.

Step 15: Folding the Lower Left and Right Edges to the Center

To further shape your origami iris, we’ll now fold the lower left and right edges towards the center. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Identify the lower left edge of your origami iris.
2. Take the lower left edge and fold it towards the center, aligning it precisely. Repeat the same with the lower right edge, folding it towards the center as well.
3. Ensure that both folds are secure and create a symmetrical appearance.

By folding the lower left and right edges to the center, you’re refining the shape of your origami iris and giving it a more intricate structure. Take your time to make the folds as precise as possible. Well done! Let’s move on to the next steps and continue the creation process.

Step 16: Repeating Step 15 for the Remaining Blank Sides

To maintain consistency and symmetry in your origami iris, it’s time to repeat Step 15 for the three remaining blank sides. Follow these instructions carefully:

1. Locate the three other blank sides of your origami iris.
2. Take each blank side, one by one, and fold the lower left and right edges towards the center, aligning them precisely.
3. Repeat this folding process for each of the three remaining blank sides.

By repeating Step 15, you’re ensuring uniformity and creating a visually pleasing structure for your origami iris. Take your time to make the folds as precise as possible. As you progress, your origami iris is becoming more refined and elegant. Fantastic job!

Step 17: Shaping the Petals

In this step, you have two options to shape the petals of your origami iris:

Option 1: Folding the Petals Down Gently fold each petal of your origami iris downward. Take your time and make sure to create a natural curve in each petal. Adjust the angle and position of each petal to your liking, giving your origami iris a unique and realistic appearance.

Option 2: Curling the Petals with a Pencil Alternatively, you can use a pencil or a similar cylindrical object to curl the petals of your origami iris. Wrap each petal around the pencil and gently roll it between your fingers to create a subtle curl. This technique adds dimension and elegance to your origami iris.

Choose the method that suits your preference and artistic vision. Whether folded down or curled, shaping the petals brings your origami iris to life. Take your time and enjoy the process of creating a stunning final result.

You’re doing an amazing job! Let’s move on to the final steps and complete your origami iris masterpiece.

Step 18: Admiring Your Completed Origami Iris

Congratulations on reaching this stage of the origami iris creation process! Take a moment to appreciate your masterpiece. Once you have folded all the petals down, your origami iris should have a stunning and realistic appearance, resembling the image provided.

Enjoy the beauty and intricate details of your origami iris. Each fold and crease has contributed to the creation of this elegant flower. Well done on your meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail!

Now, you can proudly display your origami iris or use it as a decorative element in various settings. It’s a testament to your creativity and skill in the art of origami.

Thank you for following this step-by-step guide. I hope you enjoyed the process and are satisfied with your magnificent origami iris.

Step 19: Crafting the Stem for Your Origami Iris

If you’d like to complement your origami iris with a stem, here’s how you can create one:

1. Start by preparing a long, thin strip of green paper or craft wire that will serve as the stem.
2. Carefully insert the stem into the small rip at the bottom of your origami iris. If the rip is not present, you can create a small opening using a pointed object like a toothpick or the tip of scissors.
3. Gently push the stem into the iris until it feels secure. Adjust the positioning as needed to achieve your desired look.
4. If you’re using a paper stem, you can shape and curl it by gently wrapping it around a pencil or pen to create a more natural appearance.

By adding the stem, you’ll complete the overall presentation of your origami iris. It not only adds stability but also enhances the lifelike representation of the flower. Take a step back and admire your beautiful creation— an origami iris with its own stem!

Well done on your dedication and attention to detail throughout this entire origami journey. Your origami iris is now ready to be displayed or gifted as a delightful piece of art. Enjoy your masterpiece and continue exploring the world of origami!