Some origami models begin with a single dramatic fold, but others quietly work the whole paper into a precise grid before the real shaping ever starts. The 16x16 matrix base belongs to that second family: sixteen creases across and sixteen down, turning a blank square into a dense lattice of 256 cells. It is the kind of foundation you meet again and again in modular, geometric, and even tessellation-style origami, where knowing exactly where every line should land makes the later steps far easier. The result may look simple, a sheet covered in straight creases, but that grid is surprisingly satisfying to produce, and it teaches you the patient, repetitive rhythm of accurate folding. Grab a 20cm square and let us make some lines.

This page is for those who want the instruction to fold a 16x16 matrix origami base.

This 16x16 matrix origami base will let you make an origami base with 16x16 matrix cells. If you have already learned how to fold an 8x8 matrix base, you can skip straight to step 7.

Before working on this model, you need to know what valley-fold and mountain-fold are. If you know these two folding techniques, then you will have no problem in making an origami base with 16x16 matrix cells.

If you are ready, then let’s get started.

The paper I am using here is a 20cm x 20cm square. It is a good size for those who are not experienced in paper folding. Once you become familiar with this model, you can try a smaller size paper.

This is the front side of the paper.

This is the back side of the paper.

Step 1

Start with the backside of the paper facing up. Valley-fold the paper in half horizontally and then unfold.

Step 2

Apply the horizontal valley-fold from step 1 and then unfold. Valley-fold the paper in half vertically and then unfold.

Step 3

Apply the vertical valley-fold from step 2 and then unfold. Apply two horizontal valley-folds and then unfold.

Step 4

Apply the two horizontal valley-folds from step 3 and then unfold. Apply two vertical valley-folds and then unfold.

Step 5

Apply the two vertical valley-folds from step 4 and then unfold. Apply four horizontal valley-folds and then unfold.

Step 6

Apply the four horizontal valley-folds from step 5 and then unfold. Apply four vertical valley-folds and then unfold.

Step 7

Apply the four vertical valley-folds from step 6 and then unfold. Apply eight horizontal valley-folds and then unfold.

Step 8

Apply the eight horizontal valley-folds from step 7 and then unfold. Apply eight vertical valley-folds and then unfold.

Step 9

Apply the eight vertical valley-folds from step 8 and then unfold. Congratulations! You have just completed making a 16x16 matrix origami base.