Mathematical Art & Models

I always get questions about how I made the Origami Dodecahedron. I found a helpful tutorial on YouTube and used 11″×11″ Post-It Notes (from Amazon) for a larger, playful version. I even reinforced the structure with glue — and after several play sessions, added staples to keep it sturdy.

The whole project took me a couple hours. Folding the larger sheets takes a little extra time than with smaller paper, but that makes the result even more satisfying. The giant paper model was an instant hit -- the kids always ask if they can wear it like a hat!

What really stands out is how well this activity blends creativity, craftsmanship, and geometry. Folding the dodecahedron isn’t just “arts and crafts” — because origami engages spatial reasoning, symmetry, and geometric thinking, it works beautifully as a hands-on lesson in a geometry class.

If you’re looking for a fun, tactile project that’s more than just decorative — something that teaches geometry through hands-on folding while still being silly and playful — I can’t recommend the Origami Dodecahedron enough. It’s a craft you and friends (or a class full of students) will enjoy building and showing off.

My Supply List (Items are Linked):

• 11"x11" Post-It Notes (You will need to make 30 modular units = 30 Post-It Notes)

  • Orange

  • Lime

  • Yellow

• Elmer's Glue Sticks

• YouTube Tutorial