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by Jane Pinder A bit about Iris Folding
Originally from Holland, Iris Folding made use of the envelopes that have patterns on the inside. These envelopes were cut into small strips, which were then arranged in a pattern that looked like the iris of an eye or the lens of a camera.
This has now progressed into using patterned or coloured papers, although the envelope method can still be used. The idea is to use an image that has been cut out of either a piece of card or the front of a folded card. This image is then filled with folded strips of paper laid either clockwise or anti-clockwise. The pieces are taped in place and are worked from the outer edge of the cut out shape inwards until completed with a final solid piece to form the iris. For added impact, try using a metallic, holographic or other reflective paper as the iris.
The finished result can often resemble a piece of quilted patchwork and some fabrics can also be used for this technique. There are so many different types of paper that can be used including vellums, which give a super look. Things you will need: - Suitable firm card to use for the cut out image
- Craft Knife and cutting mat
- Suitable paper for the folding
The Basic Technique Postitioning patterns are available for Iris Folding and these show you the order in which to place the strips. It is easy enough to follow these carefully to achieve a great result. 
Having cut your shape from the card, you are left with a shaped aperture. Place this over the pattern so you can see it through the aperture. Make sure you have the card face down, so you are working on the back. 
Sort your folded strips into different piles of the different colours. 
Keeping the folded edges of the strips towards the centre of your shape, tape the first piece in place following the line of the pattern marked 1. Any overlapping ends can be trimmed off as you go. Make sure the tape is only touching the card or the strip of paper and nowhere else. 
Continue with strip number two, taping it in place too. Follow on in numerical order until you reach the centre. This is the iris where you should use a plain piece of paper or a piece of reflective card. 
So, from this side it all looks a bit odd, but when you turn it over to the right side, it is another story! 
Iris Folding is great when used to make greeting cards, but it can be used to embellish a scrapbook page as well. 
And now for a different shape....can you guess what it is? 
If you want to use a patterned paper, but don’t happen to have any to hand, grab some rubber stamps and stamp some up! 
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