Get ready to create your very own paper mountain that’s about to blow its top! This multi-piece origami model, designed by Leyla Torres, isn’t just a static piece –it’s an interactive volcanic experience that will have you and your audience erupting with joy.
The volcano base, folded from dark paper to resemble volcanic rock, contains the coiled accordion-like “lava” that springs dramatically upward when released. Watch as the fire shoots skyward with a simple press of your finger, creating an eruption that will not get old.
The accordion-like fire modules spring to life, mimicking the explosive power of a volcanic eruption in miniature form.
Origami terms to note:
- Multi-Piece Origami: Is a paper folding technique that uses two or more sheets of paper folded in a different way to create a piece.
- Modular Origami Also known as Unit Origami is a paper folding technique that uses two or more sheets of paper to create a piece.
🌋 Papers Needed (Watch video below)
For the Volcano Base:
- 1 square of dark-colored paper, 8 × 8 inches (20 × 20 cm) minimum
- Letter-size or A4 paper works perfectly when cut to size
- Large KAMI paper is also excellent for this project
For the Fire Units:
- 1 square of orange or yellow paper, 8 × 8 inches (20 × 20 cm) minimum
- This will be folded then cut into smaller squares for individual fire modules
- 2 additional 6 × 6 inch squares for practice folding the modules (highly recommended!)
Tools & Setup:
- Sharp scissors or cutting tool
- Good lighting and a flat work surface
- Patience for precise folding – accuracy is key for smooth operation!
If you are at the Apprentice Bee Stage (Stage 1) As a preliminary practice, you might want to fold the Water Bomb, which is a traditional origami figure. By doing this, you will be practicing the folds to make the volcano base and the fire units. The waterbomb base demonstrated in the Origami Basics Mini-Course (videos 3 and 4). Watching the video tutorials for the volcano base and fire at least once before you make an attempt to make it will help you ease your mind into the folding process.
If you are at the Emergent Frog Stage (Stage 2) Keep in mind the previous recommendations for Stage 1. As a preliminary practice to make the volcano, you might want to fold this Floating Duck. To have fun making the waterbomb base, try these origami models too: Bear and Fox models, using plain (not patterned) copy paper. Remember that patience and persistence are your best friends!
If you are at the Competent Goldfish Stage (Stage 3) Keep in mind the suggestions for the previous stages. Also, take some pictures of the folding process so you refer to them later. Here is a suggestion on How to remember the steps to make an origami model. Make sure you take a look and practice!
If you are at the Ambassador Cat Stage (Stage 4) Keep in mind the suggestions for the previous stages. Be mindful of how you present and photograph your finished models. For best origami photo results make sure that your background is uncluttered, plain, and neutral in color. Avoid reflective surfaces. Photograph your piece in indirect daylight. Overcast days and placing your model near a window are the best!
Have you taught this model to a friend? Remember that “teaching is to learn it twice”.
If you are at Pioneer Owl Stage (Stage 5) If you are into designing your own origami figures, this model is a good example of combining elements from different origami figures.
This design concept is described in Module, 4 Section 4, Point of Departure #3: Blending Elements –Ways of combining features of different origami models as a way to create new ones.
- In this case, the module for the volcano lava was originally used to make a seven-unit model called “Kaleidoscope Flower“. It is presented in a book called “Paper Creations” by Gay Merryll Gross.
- The mountain itself was inspired by a “Rose Bud” designed by Jason Schneider.
VIDEO – Making the Volcano and the Lava
Share your folds in our FACEBOOK group. Remember that the purpose of sharing them is not only to show beautiful folds. You can also share your challenging attempts and ask questions. We are there to help each other!