Squash Fold: Understanding this Fundamental Origami Technique

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Squash Fold: Understanding this Fundamental Origami Technique

The squash fold is an essential origami technique that transforms a triangular flap into a square or diamond shape by “squashing” it flat. This versatile fold is used in countless origami models and forms the basis for creating many complex structures, making it a fundamental skill for anyone learning paper folding.

What Is a Squash Fold?

A squash fold occurs when you flatten a triangular pocket or flap along a central axis, causing the paper to spread outward into a flat shape. The process involves opening a pocket and pressing it flat in a controlled manner so that existing creases guide where the paper will fold.

While seemingly simple, the squash fold creates a transformation that adds complexity and dimension to origami models, allowing for greater detail and new folding possibilities.

[Squash fold diagram showing before, during, and after states]

How to Execute a Basic Squash Fold

To create a basic squash fold:

  1. Start with a triangular flap that has a pocket underneath it.
  2. Gently open the pocket by lifting the flap.
  3. Press down on the point of the triangle, allowing the sides to spread outward.
  4. Guide the paper to fold along its existing crease lines.
  5. Flatten the resulting shape, creating a square or diamond shape.
  6. Crease all folds firmly to complete the squash fold.

The exact execution varies depending on the model, but the core principle remains: transforming a three-dimensional pocket into a flat, two-dimensional shape.

Applications in Origami Models

Squash folds appear in many contexts throughout origami:

  • Creating the preliminary stages of the bird base
  • Forming petals in flower models
  • Developing appendages in animal models
  • Creating geometric patterns in modular origami
  • Adding dimension to otherwise flat areas
  • Developing complex bases for advanced models

Common Variations

Types of Squash Folds

  • Open Squash Fold: The standard squash where the flap is opened completely before flattening.
  • Closed Squash Fold: The squash is performed without fully opening the pocket, guiding the paper through feel.
  • Partial Squash Fold: Only a portion of a flap is squashed, creating asymmetrical shapes.
  • Double Squash Fold: Two squash folds performed simultaneously or in sequence.
  • Inside Squash Fold: A squash performed inside a model rather than on an outer flap.

Tips for Perfect Squash Folds

  • Pre-crease all fold lines before attempting the squash.
  • Open the pocket fully to see the structure before pressing down.
  • Use a fingertip on the central point to guide the squash accurately.
  • Be mindful of paper symmetry as you flatten to ensure even results.
  • Use gentle pressure until you’re sure the paper is folding correctly, then firm pressure to set the creases.

Common Challenges

New folders often struggle with squash folds for several reasons:

  • Difficulty visualizing how the 3D pocket transforms to a 2D shape
  • Uncertainty about where to place fingers during the fold
  • Uneven pressure causing asymmetrical results
  • Paper resistance at intersection points of multiple folds
  • Forgetting to pre-crease, making the squash less precise

With practice, these challenges become easier to overcome, and the squash fold becomes an intuitive part of your origami toolkit.

Further Learning

To practice squash folds, try our Origami Crane Tutorial, which incorporates squash folds in creating the bird base. For context on how squash folds relate to other techniques, see our articles on mountain folds and reverse folds.

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