Accordion paper folding // Candle holders

I‘ve been playing around with accordion paper folding for about a year now and thought it was high time that I put something on the site! The technique is really addictive.

This project shows how to make a simple candle holder. All you need is some paper, a glass jar and a little bit of glue so it’s a really affordable project. If you fancy having a go then you will find a full how-to after the jump.

***IMPORTANT*** If you want to use this as a candle holder please make sure that you put a glass jar inside the paper cuff and ensure that there is no paper hanging over the top of the jar (otherwise it may set on fire). For safety reasons I would recommend using battery operated candles instead.

If you want to explore more of these folding techniques then you can buy a fantastic book called ‘Folding Techniques for Designers‘ by Paul Jackson. I had it as a present last Christmas and love it. (If you are strapped for cash then do try your local library ^_^)

YOU WILL NEED:
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Template (pdf)
A4 Paper
Scissors
Ruler
Needle (for scoring)
Double sided tape/glue
Printable templates (all files are at the bottom of the post)

HOW TO
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1. Print the template onto A4 paper. Cut along the dotted lines, you should have two pieces of paper. Score along all the solid lines using a ruler and sharp point.

2. Fold along all the horizontal lines (mountain fold).

3 & 4. Now fold along all the diagonal lines (valley fold).

5. Squeeze the outer triangles together on the top corners.

6. Continue doing the along the length of the piece of paper (this can be tricky at first so take your time).

7 & 8. You should now be able to fold your paper up like an accordion. When it is fully collapsed press it together firmly (this will give you really sharp creases).

9 & 10. Using some glue, or double sided tape, stick the two pieces together to form a cuff.

***IMPORTANT*** If you want to use this as a candle holder please make sure that you put a glass jar inside the paper cuff and ensure that there is no paper hanging over the top of the jar (otherwise it may set on fire). For safety reasons I would recommend using battery operated candles instead.