Make a Paper Strip Herringbone Panel

WHAT TO GATHER

Your starting kit.

Plain paper or cardstock suited to the folds described below
A ruler, pencil, and scissors
Paper glue and scrap paper for protecting the work surface
A blunt folding tool for scored creases

STEP 01

Measure and prepare

Cut equal 10 by 50 mm paper strips and lightly mark a center line on a 100 by 150 mm backing card.

STEP 02

Lay out the construction

Place two strips in a right angle near the lower center, with their ends meeting along the guide.

STEP 03

Join and shape

Add alternating left and right strips above the first pair, trimming the outer edges only after the glue dries.

STEP 04

Check the result

Dry-fit the first four rows to check the repeat before committing to adhesive. Let glued joints dry according to the adhesive instructions. Compare the finished shape with its intended use: moving parts should move freely, open pockets should remain open, and supporting folds should sit level. Trim only a little at a time if a paper edge catches.

STEP 05

Finish and keep

Remove temporary pencil guides with a clean eraser where the paper allows it. Store the finished piece somewhere dry and avoid putting pressure on raised or rolled details. Keep your first scrap-paper version nearby if you want to change the dimensions next time.

Before you begin.

Can I change the paper size?

Yes. Make a scrap version first and keep the same fold sequence. Where a piece wraps another object, measure the actual object and add space for its thickness instead of enlarging only one dimension.

What should I check before beginning?

Dry-fit the first four rows to check the repeat before committing to adhesive.

Original editorial project guidance. Images are AI-generated concepts, not photographs of tested finished projects. Practice on inexpensive materials and follow tool and material instructions. Sources & approach.

Save to Pinterest ↗

More paper crafts ↗