How to Make a Valley Fold (Origami)

Co-authored by Robert Homayoon

Last Updated: December 27, 2023

A valley fold is one of the two folding methods used for creating origami, the other fold being the mountain fold and all other folds are basically variations of these two folds. The valley fold is easy to do but as it forms the basis of origami and the beginner may not know what it is referring to, this article aims to help.

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Place the origami paper on a flat surface. A table makes the ideal surface.
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Fold the lower edge of the paper upward. The point to which you fold can be anywhere for now.

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With the other hand, run a finger along the fold line and form a smooth crease. That's it, you've created a valley fold.
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Question

What advice do you have for someone who's trying to get started doing origami as a beginner?

Robert Homayoon
Origami Expert
Robert Homayoon is an Origami Expert known for his engaging YouTube videos and accessible instructions. He has been teaching origami on YouTube since 2009. His channel has a following of over 676,000 subscribers, and his videos have garnered over 211 million views. Robert uses his channel to highlight his passion for teaching people origami, crafts, and how to solve puzzles. He graduated from SUNY Albany in 2007 and earned his D.M.D degree from Temple University Dental School in 2013.

Robert Homayoon

Origami Expert

Expert Answer

Get a couple of simple books. They teach you the basic folds, valley folds, mountain folds, working on your hand coordination skills, and being precise. Take your time and try to be as accurate as possible with the instructions. It does require a certain precision, an artistic touch, and a lot of practice.

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How do I make a mountain shape fold?

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Reference wikiHow to Make a Mountain Fold (Origami) .

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How do I do a valley and mountain fold at the same time?

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Valley and mountain folds are direct opposites, so I'm not sure what you're referring to. If you are talking about a mountain fold and valley fold that are next to each other, that would be a pleat, or accordion fold. One way of making the folds simultaneously would be to bend the paper into an S shape with your middle and index fingers, then pressing down with your other hand.

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Tips

Always fold in a direction away from you. This makes folding easier for you.

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Always use a flat, smooth surface for folding on. It should be larger than the item being folded.

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Creases should always be firm and sharp for preciseness and neatness.

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Warnings

Don't hurry folding; better folds come from being patient and ensuring accuracy and tidiness.

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When making origami, the first attempt is often no good. Keep trying and you'll soon master each origami object you want to make.

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