I just LOVE fun folds!  I like that they are challenging and creative, so I get a bigger sense of satisfaction when the project is completed, especially the first time.  I think they are wonderful to receive, because they are unexpected, fun and the person knows I put extra time into it.  My classes in February are always Fun Folds (because I like the alliteration!).  But somehow, I always sneak another one in somewhere.

I found this design many years ago but just recently got a chance to try it.  Or maybe the nerve to try it.  It was not very hard to cut out.  It was hard to find enough things to decorate it though!  If you try this, plan it out first.  You really need to make sure you have enough stuff to cover all the panels.  Using double sided paper really helped, but it needs to be heavier weight so the card doesn't feel flimsy.

The original design I found (her blog is called Jozart) used a 12x12 paper or cardstock.  It results in a 6x6 card.  The first time I followed her directions but I felt that the card was too big overall and it was hard to decorate each panel.  But this larger size would be good for a small child.  My second attempt, I used a 10x10 paper, resulting in a 5x5 card.  I felt like this was perfect.  It made each panel much easier to fill.  Here is the 5x5.

I made a belly band to keep it closed.  My good friend has her kitchen decorated with coffee stuff, so I thought she would like this.  Here are a few more pics.

As you can see, I did not decorate every panel.  I am still working on another one.

By offseting the ballons, they help keep it closed.

So, I bet you want directions.  Here we go.  For a 12x12 paper, score at 3" from each edge.  For 10x10, score at 2 1/2".  Then cut out each corner (these two steps can be done at the same time, depending on your trimmer).

 The middle of each flap is either 3" or 2 1/2", score vertically, cut horizontally as shown.  You will want to make the cut a little wider, so it folds in nicely.

 Then fold the squares in and begin decorating.  The big square in the middle will be either the 6x6 or 5x5.

I hope you have fun with this.  I have a video showing all the panels on the 6x6 card, but I need to learn how to post a video!

Please show me your designs.