One of the joys of Origami is creating an original fold. It often takes several attempts to arrive at a wonderful model. I often begin with different origami bases and start folding from there. In this model I began with the traditional Pin Wheel Base.
I next pulled up the four points like a shark fin and squashed them down.
Balancing the Folds:
To create pleasing models you have to consider the symmetry of the objects you are creating. In this case I decided to use Radial symmetry because I wanted a star shape.
In many models you fold the same way more than once to balance the sides of the form. In this model I found that two and four Folds would be a good pattern to follow.
Consider Using Multiple Types of Folds:
Besides the usual Valley and Mountain Folds, this model also uses Squash Folds. It’s amazing how many variations are possible folding a single sheet of paper.
Flip and Center:
I next flipped over the model and folded the four points to the center allowing the under part to flip back out.
Notice the Cross in the Center:
A good way to check your progress is to look to the center of your model. If you see the four corners pointing to the central cross you are on target.
Time for Another Flip:
To see the model as above simply flip the model over. You are now ready to go to the next step.
Lift and Squash:
Put your thumb in the middle of the fold and lift the four middle points one at a time. Fold the points clear out to the middle edges of the fold and squash the paper down flat. All four points need to be folded this way.
Bevel the Corners:
Next, fold in the four corners of the square. This will create an octagon.
It’s Time for Another Flip.
Flip the model over to the backside. It should look like this:
Hands to the Center:
In the next step it’s easier if you think of your two hands touching in the front of your body. Notice how the two sides of the four shield meet in the middle.
You Guessed It! It is Time for Another Flip:
Now the Fun Part. Watch the Point Appear.
Next take the rectangular sections of the model on each of the four sides and fold them in half like this:
And Now, The Final Flip!
Turn your model over and see the final Star.
If You Want to Quilt Block You Will Have to Fold Some More!:
Learn How to Lock the Pieces Together:
If you look under the middle points on each of the four sides you will find a pocket. You can insert the middle points of other Stars in this pockets.
Something to Consider:
While folding this model you probably noticed the value of repetition. Some times we have, to see, hear, or try something many times before we see its value. Think of how many times you had to try before you could ride a bicycle. In life we need to take the time to listen to messages and examples of others to discover the true joys of life. I remember as a child listening to Bible stories and seeing the life examples of godly people around me. There came a day when it all made sense, and I, like those who taught me, decided to give my life to Jesus. I believed what the Bible repeatedly told me about His love for me and how He died, was buried, and rose again to pay the price for my sin and make a way for me to join the Family of God. He took my life and transformed me into someone He could use to share this good news with others. Just like I was able to transform a sheet of paper into a beautiful folded model, He can transform your life into a piece of artwork that shows His greatness and power.
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; all things are become new.” II Cor. 5:17
“You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.” II Timothy 2:1-3
Another Fun Way to Use These Stars:
If you find a piece of gold or silver Origami paper in your pack, you can make an awesome Sheriffs Badge. If you compare the shape of the individual stars with a Sherrif’s Badge you will quickly see the similarity.
You can also make book markers like this cross. Can you think of others ways to combine them?
Below is another variation of the quilt blocks combined to make a Flower head.