On each page of the iris-folding book there are seven 4cm strips of different patterned paper, but all of the same color. You cut these into 2cm strips, which are then folded almost in half lengthwise (0.7 and 1.3. I’m giving you a hint if you are new to this) to make the pictures, one of which is helpfully printed at the front, to start you off. My complaint here is that nowhere does it mention these cutting instructions in any detail, although as the pattern exists, surely the book’s owner is meant to be able to start cutting and folding straight away. But as the book says, there are lots of pattern books available in craft shops. They are those small square Dutch books that Search Press helpfully translates into English and then sells to all of us non-Dutch speaking folk. The patterns are lovely, and a bit different from all the others I’ve seen to date, so get ready for some impressive results. They have a great shiny texture, too. The strips could have been wider -6cm for preference- for the larger patterns, but fortunately each page is printed twice, so a great deal of cardmaking fun is possible.

The teabag book has lots of pages of those square designs for kaleidoscope folding, and at the back are generously four whole pages of folds to try, as well as full-color pictures of how the work ought to look if you are that good at it. Christmas is not covered here (nor is it in the other book), but the general-purpose patterns are suitable for most other occasions. At £6.99 each ($11.95), they aren’t too expensive, and would make great gifts if you can bear to part with them. (I couldn’t.) They are acid and lignin free too! These are two in a range of similar titles, so why not...

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