An Exercise in Paper Folding

The following comes from the book, How ? (or Spare Hours Made More Profitable for Boys and Girls), published in 1887. The plot thickens around Figure 7, but with a little luck, I'm sure you can do it.

While the instructions call for a 3 inch x 4 inch piece of paper, I've found the US standard 8.5 inch x 11 inch works just fine, if not better. (It's easier with larger paper). Standard A4 will do just fine also. Be limited only by your imagination!

instructions for folding paper

While I like the above, as they were printed in the midst of the Paper Boat era, you can find a modern short video of how to do it! (click here).

And for extra credit, you could try a 19th Century Paper Hat.

Return to Main Page for more on 19th century paper.... and paper boats!