cutandfold

Cutandfold is a term used in papercraft to describe techniques for creating three-dimensional objects by cutting away portions of paper and then folding the remaining material. It sits alongside origami and kirigami and emphasizes the combination of cuts and folds to form shapes that may be difficult to achieve with folding alone.

Designs typically start from a two-dimensional layout or net that indicates cut lines, fold lines, and where tabs or joints will be placed. The process involves cutting along the designated lines, scoring or creasing along fold lines, and folding the paper to form the final structure. Tabs may be glued or interlocked to stabilize the model. Some cutandfold projects incorporate perforations, grids, or slits to create pop-out or interlocking features. Materials are usually paper or cardstock, though thin cardboard or specialty papers can be used for greater durability.

Tools and materials commonly used include scissors or a craft knife, a scoring tool or the edge of a blunt blade for scoring, a ruler, cutting mat, glue or double-sided tape, and sometimes perforation tools or perforation guides. Finishing touches may include painting, printing, or edge decoration to enhance appearance.

Applications range from pop-up cards and decorative models to architectural or product mock-ups and educational models illustrating geometry and volume. The technique is popular in hobbyist communities, classrooms, and DIY kits, offering accessible entry points for beginners and flexible options for more complex designs.

See also: kirigami, origami, papercraft, pop-up engineering.