Origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, has captivated people worldwide with its ability to transform simple sheets of paper into intricate, three-dimensional designs. One of the most fascinating aspects of origami is its application in creating money or coin folds. These origami money folds are not only visually appealing but also serve as practical tools for organizing and storing cash. If you're new to origami and eager to learn how to create easy money folds, you've come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore two simple yet impressive origami money folding techniques that are perfect for beginners.
Before we dive into the tutorials, let's briefly discuss the benefits of learning origami money folds. Firstly, these folds can help you keep your money organized and prevent it from getting wrinkled or torn. Secondly, origami money folds can make great gifts or party favors. Lastly, mastering these techniques can be a rewarding and relaxing hobby that improves your fine motor skills and patience. Now that we've established the advantages of learning origami money folds, let's get started with our first easy tutorial.
The Simple Origami Money Fold (Square Base)
The simple origami money fold, also known as the square base, is an excellent starting point for beginners. This fold creates a neat, compact square that's perfect for storing or gifting small amounts of cash.
To create a simple origami money fold, you'll need a single square piece of paper, preferably in the size of your currency bill. For this tutorial, we'll assume you're using a standard US dollar bill, which measures approximately 6.14 x 2.61 inches (156 x 66 mm).
Step 1: Create a Preliminary Base
Begin by laying your dollar bill flat on a smooth surface, with the side bearing the portrait facing down. Fold the bill in half vertically, crease well, and then unfold it. Next, fold the bill in half horizontally, crease well, and unfold it again. You should now have a plus sign (+) crease pattern on your bill.
Fold the top left corner to the center vertical line, and do the same for the top right corner. You should now have a kite shape. Fold the top tip of the kite down to the bottom point, crease well, and unfold it. Your bill should now have a square base, also known as a preliminary base.
Step 2: Form the Final Fold
Fold the top left corner of the square base to the right side, aligning the edge with the right side of the square. Do the same for the bottom left corner, folding it up to meet the top corner. You should now have a smaller square with a pocket on the left side.
Insert your fingers into the pocket and pull the sides apart to open the fold. Your simple origami money fold is now complete! You can store cash inside the pocket or use it as a decorative element.
The Origami Money Envelope
The origami money envelope is another easy and practical fold that allows you to store and organize cash while adding a touch of elegance. This fold is slightly more advanced than the previous one but still perfect for beginners.
For this tutorial, you'll need two square pieces of paper in the size of your currency bill. You can use two dollar bills or cut a larger piece of paper into two squares.
Step 1: Create a Pocket Fold
Begin by laying one of the dollar bills flat on a smooth surface, with the side bearing the portrait facing down. Fold the bill in half vertically, crease well, and then unfold it. Next, fold the bill in half horizontally, crease well, and unfold it again. You should now have a plus sign (+) crease pattern on your bill.
Fold the top left corner to the center vertical line, and do the same for the top right corner. You should now have a kite shape. Fold the top tip of the kite down to the bottom point, crease well, and unfold it. Your bill should now have a square base, also known as a preliminary base.
Step 2: Form the Envelope
Take the second dollar bill and lay it flat on a smooth surface. Fold it in half horizontally, crease well, and unfold it. Then, fold it in half vertically, crease well, and unfold it again. You should now have a plus sign (+) crease pattern on the second bill.
Fold the top left corner of the second bill to the center vertical line, and do the same for the top right corner. You should now have a kite shape. Fold the top tip of the kite down to the bottom point, creasing well. Your second bill should now have a pocket fold.
Insert the first bill with the square base into the pocket of the second bill. Your origami money envelope is now complete! You can store cash inside the envelope or use it as a decorative element.
As you've seen, origami money folds can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. By mastering these simple and easy techniques, you'll not only be able to organize and store your cash but also impress your friends and family with your newfound origami skills. So, grab some paper and start practicing these origami money folds today! Happy folding!