Folding is having a major moment right now, thanks in large part to Instagram. Creative folders are racking up millions of likes and views with their mesmerizing videos showing everything from clothes to paper sculptures taking shape. Leading the folding revolution is Cas Weinand, an artist whose wildly popular Instagram account @thefoldinglady has over 2 million followers.
Cas is considered the queen of folding tricks and her page is a masterclass in folding techniques for beginners through experts. From her clever clothing folds to her mind-bending paper sculptures, Cas’ folding skills are unmatched. Read on for the very best folding tips and tricks curated from Cas Weinand’s Instagram account so you can fold like a pro.
Get Equipped with the Best Folding Supplies
Just as a chef is only as good as their tools, having the proper folding equipment makes a big difference in executing advanced techniques. Here are Cas’ top recommended supplies:
Fabric Folding Essentials
- Wooden hanger – Provides a sturdy base for hanging folds
- Clips – Help secure folds in place
- Steamer – Releases wrinkles from fabric
- Iron – Smooths and sets folds
- Fabric marker or chalk – Marks fold lines temporarily
Paper Folding Must-Haves
- Bone folder – Helps create crisp creases in paper
- X-Acto knife – Cuts paper cleanly and precisely
- Metal ruler – Provides straight edges for measuring and folding
- Cutting mat – Protects work surface when cutting
- Glue – Secures paper folds and sculptures
- Origami paper – Thinner than regular paper for intricate folds
Investing in quality supplies makes folding easier and more enjoyable. Look for ones made specifically for fabric versus paper folding. With the right tools in hand, let’s move on to Cas’ top folding techniques.
Master the Art of Folding Clothes
Few things show off excellent folding skills like a neatly folded pile of laundry or a perfectly packed suitcase. Take your clothing folds from drab to dramatic with these tips.
Choose the Right Fabrics
Thicker fabrics like denim and wool hold their folds better than thinner, slinkier materials. Cotton, linen, and mid-weight knits are ideal for practicing folds. Avoid super delicate fabrics prone to wrinkling.
Fold Lengthwise First
The lengthwise fold forms the foundation. Fold clothes in half lengthwise, matching hem edges and smoothing fabric. For extra definition, press fold with an iron or steamer.
Make Crisp Folds
Sharp creases hold folded shapes better. Run your fingernail firmly across folds for a crisp edge. For stubborn fabrics, spray with water or press with an iron.
Know Your Folds
Master basic folds like the accordion, envelope, and packet before moving to more complex shapes. Practice makes perfect.
Work from the Inside Out
For packed folds, begin with innermost folds first. Build up shapes layer by layer for a nested look.
Secure with Clips
Mini binder clips keep folded creations in place for transporting. Release clips before wearing or washing items.
Fold and Steam
Steaming helps set the folds so garments keep their shapes. Fold first, then lightly steam shape and hold until cooled.
With practice, you’ll be able to fold shirts into perfect rectangles or sculpt pants into works of art. Use these techniques for travel packing or Marie Kondo-style tidying.
Craft Paper into Origami Art
Paper offers endless folding possibilities, from simple origami to multifaceted modular sculptures. Follow Cas’ tips for paper folding success.
Choose the Right Paper
Look for thin, brightly colored origami paper which folds crisply. Avoid thick papers prone to cracking. Consider weights, textures, and patterns.
Review Symbols and Folds
Origami directions use special symbols for common folds like valley, mountain, and rabbit ear. Learn symbols before starting projects.
Work on a Level Surface
Tables or cutting mats provide smooth, hard surfaces ideal for paper folding. Soft surfaces distort folds.
Fold in Sections
Don’t attempt to fold the whole sculpture at once. Work in sections, completing areas one at a time.
Follow Directions Carefully
Origami diagrams show each crease and fold required to achieve the finished product. Pay close attention to instructions.
Crease Well with a Bone Folder
A bone folder makes crisp, precise folds. Apply pressure and “break” the fiber of the paper.
Secure Pieces with Glue
For complex sculptures, glue secures pieces together. Avoid over-gluing and let dry completely.
Make Adjustments Carefully
Gently tweak folds if needed without tearing paper. Unfold and refold crooked sections for precision.
With practice, you can fold paper into endless shapes and characters. Start simple, then work up to modular origami art.
Get Creative with Household Folding
Look around your home for unique folding possibilities. Give everyday items special folded makeovers.
Make Folded Towel Animals
Sculpt towels into sweet critters like bunnies, elephants, and puppy dogs. Secure with ribbon.
Fan Out Book Pages
Drape a book open in your desired shape and press pages down into fanned pleats.
Pleat Lampshades
For fun, give lampshades an origami feel by pleating the fabric in equal sections.
Fold Napkins Beautifully
Adorn tables with fancy folded napkin shapes – try flowers, fans, or diamonds.
Organize with Folded Storage
Get creative folding clothes into compact boxes and baskets to neatly store belongings.
Shape Decorative Wall Art
Make artsy geometric designs by folding and creasing paper, canvas, or fabric wall hangings.
Everyday items become works of art with a few simple folds. Let your creativity run wild dreaming up folded transformations.
Take Your Folding Skills Next Level
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to step up your folding game. Try these advanced techniques from Instagram’s folding guru.
Make Modular Origami Sculptures
Modular origami uses multiple folded paper units locked together to form complex creations.
Attempt Action Origami Folding
Make shapes that move with folding techniques like flapping wings or meshing gears. Fun and challenging!
Sculpt 3D Geometric Folds
By varying fold angles, transform flat sheets into 3D tetrahedrons, cubes, and pyramids.
Play with Patterned Folds
Use folded paper or fabric to create mesmerizing kaleidoscope, spiral, and tessellated designs.
Explore Curved Folds
Most folds use straight lines and sharp edges. Try soft curved folds for freeform shaping.
Mimic Objects with Folded Fabric
Expertly folded fabric can mimic surfaces like dragon scales, flower petals, seashells, and more.
Let creativity and curiosity guide you as you test the limits of folding. Discover new techniques for bringing flat materials to life in 3D.
Frequently Asked Questions About Folding
What are some beginner folds to start with?
Some easy starter folds include the classic paper airplane, simple pleated fans, rolled paper roses, and basic origami shapes like cranes and frogs. For fabric, practice shirt folding, pleated skirts, and fanned napkins.
Which materials are best for folding?
Paper made specifically for origami is thin and holds creases well. Cottons, linens, and medium-weight fabrics with some structure fold cleanly. Very delicate and slippery fabrics are trickier.
How do I make crisp, sharp folds?
Run your fingernail, bone folder, or other blunt object along the fold line to set a strong crease. Mist paper and fabric with water or press with an iron for extra sharpness. Take it slow.
What are some fun things to fold at home?
Get creative folding household items! Try sculpting towels into shapes, pleating lampshades, fanning book pages, folding decorative wall art, making napkin designs, and repurposing boxes with folded storage.
What types of paper make the best origami?
Look for thin, brightly colored paper labeled for origami. The thinness and color variations allow light to pass through the folds for a beautiful effect. Avoid using thick papers.
How do I fold clothes neatly?
Always fold clothes lengthwise first as the base. Work from the inside folds out, layering shapes for a nested look. Use clips to secure shapes. Fold, then steam garments to help hold the shape.
What are good projects for beginner origami folders?
Some fun starter origami projects include cootie catchers/fortune tellers, simple cranes and frogs, modular cubes, pleated fans, paper airplanes, and modular flowers.
Conclusion
From transforming towels to sculpting paper, the possibilities are endless when you know creative folding techniques. With Instagram star Cas Weinand’s innovative approaches, you can spark joy in folding everything from clothes to curtains. Start simple, practice precision in your folds, and work up to ever more complex folds and sculptures. Just follow the folds. With some patience and these tips, you’ll soon be folding like a pro too and impressing friends with your new folding skills!