Credits and Resources:
Text-Only Instructions - Copyright 2024 by Lindy van der Merwe
This is likely to be a traditional model.
For instructions with pictures, see, for example,
papernautic.com
Paper to be used: Square, any size; thicker paper or thin cardstock is recommended for this box.
Folding level: Easy/Beginner
Steps: 21
Description: This box is somewhat similar in its folding method to that of the Sturdy Square Box (MDL0067). However, the finished model has a unique characteristic, in that the opening of the box is slightly smaller than its base, hence it is named a Trapezoid Box.
A trapezoid or trapezium is a flat (2D) shape, that can be thought of as square, but when drawn, the top and bottom lines are not the same length. If the top horizontal line of the shape is shorter than the bottom, we will get a shape with sides that slant upwards and inwards, which is the case with this box, but of course, in a 3D form, which might bring us closer to a pyramid shape, but thankfully that is not under discussion for this model.
NOTE: This model starts from the preliminary or square base. If you are able to achieve this without instructions, fold the base and then go to Step 9.
"Step 1
Place a square down so that it forms a diamond shape.
Step 2
Bring the left point over to meet the right point. Crease and unfold.
Step 3
Bring the top point down to meet the bottom point. Crease and unfold.
Step 4
Turn the square over and position it so that its edges are facing up and down, left and right.
Step 5
Bring the left edge over to meet the right edge. Crease and unfold.
Step 6
Bring the top edge down to meet the bottom edge. Crease and leave folded.
Step 7
Grasp the left and right points of the resulting rectangle and pick it up off of the folding surface. Push inward. The model should collapse along the pre-existing folds.
The result will be a square or diamond-shaped model, with four flaps one each to the left and right, front and back.
Step 8
Fold the front flap to the left and fold the back flap to the right so that your model will lie flat. The model will have one open end, which should be facing away from you."
Step 9
Fold the top point, top layer only, down to meet the bottom point. Crease and unfold.
Step 10
Fold the same top point down again, but this time bring it down to meet the center horizontal crease you made in the previous step.
Crease and leave folded.
Step 11
Now, take the top edge, including the folded-down triangle and bring it towards you, using the horizontal center crease as your reference.
Press flat.
Result: The folded-down triangle will now be hidden.
You will have a shape resembling a boat at the top of the model with a pointy triangle nearest you.
Step 12
Flip the model over and repeat steps 9 to 11 on the other side.
Make sure that the folded-down edge is straight and that it is the same on both sides.
Step 13
Flip the flap on the left over to the right, turning it like the page in a book to reveal a smooth surface.
Step 14
Fold the left and right points of the shape, the top layer only, straight inwards to meet each other at the vertical center line.
Crease well and leave folded.
Step 15
Flip the model over and Repeat the previous two steps on this side as well.
Step 16
Repeat Steps 9 and 10, so you have a folded-down triangle at the top again.
Step 17
This time, first lift the top triangle away from you and then bring it down all the way, tucking it under the left and right folds you have made previously.
You may try to tuck the point under the flaps on the inside of the model, but it won't be a secure lock.
The box relies more on all the other folds to keep its shape, so just press the sides as flat as possible.
Step 18
Repeat the previous steps on the other side to complete the fourth side of the box.
Step 19
To form the bottom of the box, fold the bottom point up as far as it will go.
Make a very strong horizontal crease and then unfold.
Step 20
Flip the model over and repeat on the other side.
Step 21
Gently open the box by pulling apart the sides and press the bottom flat.
Make sure you pull the sides straight before pushing out the corners as far as they will go. If necessary, pinch them from the outside as well.
If preferred, you can glue down the two side flaps if they tend to stand up.
If all went well, your Trapezoid Box will now be ready for use.
It might take a few tries to get this box to look really neat since the folds need to be accurate for the corners and rim to look cymmetrical on all 4 sides.
Making origami accessible through text instructions.
For non-commercial use only.
Compiled by Lindy van der Merwe, September 2024
This text copyright 2024 by accessorigami.com
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