MDL0048 - ORIGAMI - EASIEST EVER PLACECARD FOR BEGINNERS (FROM A SQUARE OR A RECTANGLE)

Text-Only Instructions

Credits and Resources:

This model was folded by me without any external reference or resource. I was looking for a cone that would be as large as possible but still fairly secure.

If you are aware of any other source where this model or similar might be listed, please let me know so I can reference it under this heading.

Paper to be used: Square or rectangular, colored construction or printer paper will work well for this model.

Braille paper or cardstock may also be used, especially if braille will be added to the placecards.

Folding level: Easy/Beginner

Steps: 6

Description: This is a simple three-sided placecard. It is folded into a 3D closed triangle or a tent shape, so that, When one of the sides is placed flat, the remaining two sides will form a sloped back and front surface.

It is also sometimes called a Prism Placecard because of its distinctive shape.

Once the sides of the model have been folded in, Braille or print can be added before the last step by placing stickers or writing on either of the two sections just above or below the horizontal center fold.

Remarks:

Placecards are easy to fold for special occasions like parties, weddings, conferences or just a social gathering at home.

Origami placecards may not only be a cheaper option than store-bought cards, but it will allow you more options in terms of paper colors and patterns to fit with your chosen theme.

It is a great beginner origami project for kids to make and decorate.

The placecard can be made longer from side to side by leaving a gap when folding the sides into the center in Step 3.

This may be especially helpful if braille placecards are needed.

Because these cards are simple and quick to fold, they are great for when a lot of models are needed in a limited time or for when a very simple card is required, e.g. at a formal conference.

If you have placecards already printed or the names written by hand, consider the model following this one,  ADL0006 - ORIGAMI - PLACECARD POCKET, as an alternative.

If using two-sided paper, lay your paper with the patterned or colored side down before starting to fold.

Step 1

Place a square piece of paper down on a hard, flat surface with its edges to the left and right, top and bottom.

If using a rectangular piece of paper, place it  down with the short edges at the top and bottom, or in portrait orientation.

Step 2

Fold the left edge over to meet the right edge. Crease and unfold.

Step 3

Fold both edges in to meet at the center vertical crease line. Crease and leave folded.

Step 4

Fold the top edge down to meet the bottom edge. Crease and unfold.

Step 5

Fold both edges in to meet at the center horizontal crease line. Crease well and unfold.

You will now have a long rectangle that is divided into 4 sections.

Step 6

To complete your placecard, while slightly opening the flaps at the bottom edge of the model, bring down the top quarter of the paper and tuck it into the bottom section of the model.

The top quarter section will slide completely into the bottom quarter section. You will be left with a prism or a  long three-sided or triangular shape. Gently reinforce the sides to make it neat.


Alternative Model:

ADL0006 - ORIGAMI - PLACECARD POCKET

To make a triangular or prism placecard with an opening or a 'pocket' where a store-bought or pre-written name or placecard may be inserted, do the following:

Step 1

Fold the Easiest Ever Placecard, MDL0048, but turn your model over, like turning the page in a book, after completing Step 3.

- You will have a long rectangle with a smooth surface with its short edges at the top and bottom.

Step 2

Move on to Steps 4, 5 and 6.

- After completing Step 6, you will notice that one of the sloping sides of the prism has 2 rectangular flaps with loose corners that meet each other at the top vertical center.

Step 3

Turn the model so the abovementioned sloping side is facing you.

Step 4

To create a pocket where a card may be inserted, fold the two loose corners outwards and downwards at a 45 degree angle, so they meet the left and right edges of the figure.

Step 5

Press flat. 

- You now have a triangular opening to insert an already-made placecard, thank you message or small menu, etc.

Making origami accessible to visually impaired crafters through text instructions.

for non-commercial use only.

~`~Compiled by Lindy van der Merwe, May 2019

Revised: January 2023, with thankful acknowledgement to Claire Ozel

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