Using Templates:
These techniques are particularly useful when needing to make multiple copies of the same fold such as in unit origami OR when you want to make a fold without the creases needed from positional folds (folds that are only used to locate the correct position for a necessary fold) OR when the paper is very expensive and you don’t want to make a mistake. I create two types of templates; the first is simply a guide to locating the position of the desired fold. Use a second sheet of the same size folding any method desired folding all the necessary preliminary folds. Then, use this sheet as a guide to find the desired position without the positional folds. Here are instructional examples of this technique for folding thirds and fifths: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUuW6DTPLUQ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tx5rYBQs6F4 The second method is to fold a larger sheet which will be the template around a smaller sheet which will be the paper used for the actual fold. Usually, I have a template that is the same length but twice the width of the paper used for the model. Place the model paper on the template paper lined up at the top and sides. Fold the bottom of the template paper up to the bottom of model paper. Slide the model paper inside of the bottom fold and fold the top of the template paper over the top. Now remove the model paper and complete the desired folds on the template. When all desired folds are created, open the template and insert the model paper into the template. Refold all the critical desired folds (you can simply ignore the positional fold). You should note that templates like this give a more rounded crease that may or may not be desirable for some models. Here is a video showing a model in which I started with a template for fifths. You might also create a full template for the entire model. I've folded quite a few prisms for the models created and use a full template to decrease the time needed to complete each model. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZ1aNBjJz8M If there is enough interest, I will make a video showing this fold using the "Full Template" Charles “Doc” Santee
