How To Fold

Anyone Can Do This

Folding a circle is a process of sequential and proportional movement—touching points together, forming creases, and observing the lines that emerge. The first fold is foundational, guiding everything that follows.

Each crease reveals information that informs the next step. As you fold, a triangular grid begins to form, providing a structure for higher-frequency folds and unlimited possibilities for reforming the circle. Folding one circle, then many, naturally leads to joining multiple circles—the same principles apply when connecting folded circles.

Touching points and vertices, edges, or faces together creates spatial relationships that make up larger connected systems. When points are accurately touching, creases appear where they need to be. Strong creases provide visual clarity, making it easier to respond to the information the circle generates. Connections become clear when creases align, and your choices are reflected in how the circle reforms.

Materials

In workshops and residencies, we keep it simple and accessible. Paper should hold a crease well and be fairly sturdy. Using variations on any of these materials all have consequences and expand creative possibilities—we recommend the basic process first. Typical materials include:

• Uncoated 6" or 9” single-ply paper plates  (coated paper is NOT recommended)
• Hard-edge stick or bone folder for creasing
• Grippy bobby pins to hold circles together
• All-purpose masking tape for taping and joining

Resources for Getting Started

• Downloadable PDFs: Folding Circles I and Folding Circles II (Grid Frequencies)—step-by-step guides for learning and practicing folding techniques.
  
• Instructional videos below demonstrate the process in action.
  
• Books for deeper exploration: Available for purchase on our Books page, these titles provide a more in-depth look at folding circles, the principles behind them, and their creative applications.
  

Interested in a custom class, workshop, or residency? Visit our Workshops page and Contact us to start a conversation.