Eels and Octopuses Tessellation

Eels and Octopuses Origami Tessellation

This is a just a random idea that I had while fiddling around with a small piece of 'gridded' paper. Sometimes, looking for inspiration, I'll fold a small 16 pleat grid on a little square and just screw around with it to see if it takes me anywhere worthwhile.

Full view Eels and Octopuses Tess

The tessellation that I came up with was an alternating ring of small hexagons and teardrops around a large hexagon. In order to have 12 shapes around the hexagon, instead of the usual 6, it was layered using natural micro trapezoids. 

All this information will make a lot more sense upon viewing the crease pattern below. 

Back view Eels and Octopuses Tess

The back view is rather unremarkable. 

What's notable about this particular origami tessellation, is the fact that I didn't actually fold it as a tessellation. The pattern can absolutely be tessellated. I even went so far as to map it that way on the paper prior to folding. 

However, as I was beginning the first of the six repetitions, I realized that the paper I'd chosen combined with the rather humid weather,  was not going to permit me to do it. 

Rather than keep going and destroy it trying, I opted to preserve the center that I was able to complete and finish with some basic triangle twists. 

Generally, I prefer to persevere and power through even when the tessellating becomes extremely difficult. But occasionally, one has to know when to step back and accept that certain circumstances require adjusting your expectations. 

Still, I can totally see trying this tessellation again in better weather in order to complete the full tessellation. 


Diagram to fold Eels and Octopuses

This has been an original post created by SolvingOrigamiTessellations.com

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