Hexaflexagon Tutorial (3D version)

Learn how to make a 3D hexaflexagon!

Demonstration

Materials

• 3 square sheets of origami paper

The sheets of origami paper should all be the same size. For this model, I suggest using sheets of origami paper that are at least 6 inches by 6 inches or larger (small sheets of origami paper are hard to fold). Feel free to use whichever combination of colors you prefer! :)

Part 1: Making the pieces

The steps below will help you construct the three pieces needed to assemble the model.

[1] Choose one of the sheets of origami paper and start with the white side facing up.

[2] Fold the top edge to the bottom edge of the paper. Unfold.

[3] Fold the top and bottom edges of the paper to the center crease.

The purpose of these beginning steps is to make it easier for the model to fit together and collapse properly at the end.

[4] Continue by folding the left edge to the paper to the right edge of the paper. Unfold.

[5] Flip the paper over. Then, fold the right and left edges to the center crease. Unfold.

[6] Flip the paper over again and fold the corners as shown. Unfold.

[7] Fold the other two corners as shown. Unfold.

[8] Fold along the diagonal as shown. Unfold.

[9] Fold the other diagonal. Unfold.

These diagonal folds are crucial in making sure that the model collapses correctly.

[10] Repeat steps [1] to [9] with the other two pieces of paper.

Make sure that your creases are sharp and accurate so that the model fits together.

Part 2: Putting everything together

You’re almost done!

The final 10 steps below will help you put the three pieces together and collapse the model to create the hexaflexagon!

Note: We will call the green paper ‘Paper A,’ the blue paper ‘Paper B,’ and the orange paper ‘Paper C.’

[1] Insert paper A into paper B.

[2] Insert paper B into paper C.

[3] Insert paper C into paper A.

This step is crucial because if paper C is not inserted into paper A properly, the model will be lopsided.

[4] Fold one side of the triangle outwards as shown.

This step is necessary to ensure that you compress the blue side correctly in step [5].

[5] Compress the top and bottom edges as shown.

[6] Fold another side outwards.

[7] Compress the top and bottom edges as shown.

[8] Fold the final side outwards and compress the top and bottom edges.

[9] Turn the model so that a ‘hexagon’ is facing you. Compress the top and bottom edges.

[10] Repeat step [9] with the other two hexagon faces.

This step is necessary to join together the hexaflexagon’s components and allow the hexaflexagon to turn inside out.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You did it! :)