Reverse Fold: Mastering the Essential Origami Technique
The reverse fold is one of the most important and versatile techniques in origami, allowing folders to change the direction of a flap and create complex shapes. This technique appears in intermediate to advanced models and is a key skill for expanding your origami repertoire beyond basic forms.
What Is a Reverse Fold?
A reverse fold is a technique that redirects a folded flap by combining both mountain and valley folds. It essentially turns a point or edge inward or outward from its original direction, creating angles and features that would otherwise be impossible with basic folds alone.
Reverse folds come in two primary varieties: outside reverse folds (where the point turns outward) and inside reverse folds (where the point turns inward). Both types are crucial for creating complex structures in origami models.
How to Execute a Basic Reverse Fold
To create an outside reverse fold:
- Start with a paper model that has a pointed flap you wish to redirect.
- Determine the crease line where you want the flap to change direction.
- Open the flap slightly and create a mountain fold along one side of the proposed crease line.
- Create a valley fold along the other side of the proposed crease line.
- Press the paper flat, forcing the point to reverse its direction.
- Adjust and sharpen all creases to complete the reverse fold.
For an inside reverse fold, the process is similar, but the flap is directed inward rather than outward.
Applications in Origami Models
Reverse folds are used extensively in origami for various purposes:
- Creating legs on animal models
- Forming heads and necks on bird and animal models
- Shaping wings and tails
- Creating geometric angles in abstract designs
- Adding detail and definition to basic shapes
- Converting simple bases into complex forms
Common Variations
Types of Reverse Folds
- Outside Reverse Fold: The point is redirected outward, away from the center of the model.
- Inside Reverse Fold: The point is redirected inward, toward the center of the model.
- Double Reverse Fold: Two parallel reverse folds performed simultaneously, often used for legs.
- Partial Reverse Fold: Only a portion of a flap is reverse-folded, creating a bend or angle.
- Sequential Reverse Folds: Multiple reverse folds in sequence, creating zigzag or curved shapes.
Tips for Perfect Reverse Folds
- Pre-crease your fold lines before attempting the full reverse fold.
- Open the paper structure fully to see exactly where your folds need to be.
- Work slowly and deliberately, especially when learning this technique.
- Pay attention to the paper’s tension; sometimes you need to gently manipulate it into position.
- Practice on larger paper first before attempting reverse folds on smaller models.
Common Challenges
Reverse folds can be tricky for several reasons:
- They require visualizing a 3D transformation from a 2D state
- They combine both mountain and valley folds simultaneously
- They often require precise alignment to look clean and symmetrical
- Paper thickness can create resistance, especially at intersecting fold lines
Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect. Reverse folds become more intuitive with practice.
Further Learning
To practice reverse folds, try our Origami Crane Tutorial, which uses reverse folds to create the head and tail. Understanding mountain folds and valley folds is essential before attempting reverse folds.