How to Make a Magic Spinning Kirigami Card

Steps

1. 1. Download and Study the Template

   Grab the free template from the link in the video description. It shows a diamond shape made of concentric nested squares with two types of lines on it: solid black lines that you cut all the way through, and colored lines that you score only partway.

   Tip: The two line types are the whole key to this project. Black lines = cut through completely. Colored lines = score partway only.

   

2. 2. Transfer the Pattern to Cardstock

   Place your printed template on top of a sheet of colored cardstock and trace all the lines lightly with a pencil. Transfer paper works too if you have it.

   

3. 3. Cut the Through-Lines

   Using a craft knife and metal ruler, cut along all the solid black diagonal lines - these go completely through the cardstock. These are the structural cuts that create the ring strips forming the spinning design.

   Tip: Use a metal ruler, not a plastic one. The knife can bite into plastic and send the blade off track.

   

4. 4. Score the Crossing Lines

   Now work along the shorter colored lines. Cut in from each edge but stop about a third of the way across the paper - do NOT cut all the way through.

   Tip: The depth of the score cuts matters. Too shallow and the paper won't bend cleanly; too deep and it tears all the way through.

   

5. 5. Open the Card for the First Time

   Pick up the cardstock and slowly open it from the center fold. The cut strips will rise away from the flat surface as nested square rings.

   

6. 6. Train the Spinning Motion

   Hold one outer edge in each hand and gently push your hands toward each other. The rings rotate and twist as they compress, alternating direction to create the spiral effect.

   

7. 7. Your Magic Spinning Kirigami Card

   Hold both outer edges and slowly pull them apart - the rings cascade outward in a spinning spiral. Open and close it as many times as you like.