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Tools and Equipment

Bone Folder

Also Known As Folding Bone
Paper, Wax and Calligraphy Tools

A dull, smooth-edged blade of bone, ivory or plastic, drawn along a fold to press it into a sharp, permanent crease without cutting or scoring the paper or card. Bookbinders, cardmakers and paper folders all reach for the same blunt tool, because an edge with no cutting bite cannot tear what it creases. This description is adapted from Wikipedia contributors under CC BY-SA 4.0; changes were made. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

Facts
Origin
Traditionally cut from the leg bone of a cow or deer, or from ivory; a genuine bone tool is prized for being less likely to leave a shiny burnish or residue on the paper than a plastic one. Japanese binders and paper folders commonly use a bamboo tool of the same idea, or a fabric-marking tool called a hera. 1
Open Questions
Introduced When (Circa)
Not established by the sources consulted
The tool's simple bone-and-blade form leaves no clear first-use date in the sources consulted, only its long-standing role in bookbinding and paper crafts.
Connections

Used In

Kusudama Pattern, Projects and Patterns

Bone Folder is used in Kusudama Pattern.

Origami, Crafts
Source Bone Folder (Wikipedia)
Origami Crane Pattern, Projects and Patterns

Bone Folder is used in Origami Crane Pattern.

Origami Masu Box Pattern, Projects and Patterns

Bone Folder is used in Origami Masu Box Pattern.

Origami Water Lily Pattern, Projects and Patterns

Bone Folder is used in Origami Water Lily Pattern.

Sources
1. Bone Folder (Wikipedia)
Wikipedia
  • Lead section
    bone folder, bonefolder, or folding bone
  • Materials and Japan sections
    the leg bone of a cow, deer, or similar animal; ivory; or plastic
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