For those who can’t remember grade 6 math (and we are a rather large group), a hexahedron is a six sided three dimensional geometric figure. The snap part refers to the very cool final step in folding, which brings this lovely shape to life. Now if only it had a chocolate inside.
Begin by clicking here to learn about origami symbols and basic techniques.
For information about origami history, tips for folding, and shops for buying paper in Toronto, click here.
Materials
- origami paper (6″x6″ is a good size to work with)
- knife, ruler & cutting mat, or scissors
Instructions
1. The first step requires a 3 x 3 grid of squares. To make this, take a 6" x 6" piece of paper, white side up, and fold in half horizontally. Open.
2. Fold one edge to the centre. Open. Fold the other edge to the centre. Open. It should look like this.
3. Now do the same thing vertically. You will end up with a grid of 12 squares looking like this.
4. Use a knife and ruler, or scissors, to cut off a line of squares off two adjacent edges. You will now have a 3 x 3 grid.
5. With paper print side up, make a vertical valley fold that is diagonal. Open.
6. With white side up, valley fold a horizontal diagonal. Open.
7. Fold one corner to the intersection of creases shown. Open.
8. Repeat on other side. Open.
9. Pleat paper as shown.
10. It should look like this.
11. Outside reverse fold the top corner.
12. It should look like this.
13. Outside reverse fold the bottom corner.
14. Valley fold the top corner and tuck into the lower pocket.
15. It should look like this.
16. Turn over and valley fold the lower corner, tucking it into the upper pocket.
17. It should look like this.
18. Hold paper as shown and gently squeeze. The corners will separate or snap into a 3D hexahedron.
Using smaller paper is trickier, but it can be done!
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