SUPPLIES:
 *Exacto knife (for cutting out the window).
 *Scissors
 *Decorative paper in various colors (3 to 4 usually depending on the pattern used) cut in 1" strips and folded in half lengthwise and cut as you needed. I use a combination of tissue paper, wrapping paper and scrapbook paper--whatever blends. Magazines are good for this too.

 *Iris folding pattern Double-sided tape

BASIC DIRECTIONS:

1. Cut out a window in a 1/4 sheet of cardstock with your Exacto knife.

2. Place cut-out card over the iris folding pattern, face down. You will be working on the back side of the card.
Tape the card to the pattern using removable tape. You may use a low tack masking tape for this too.

3. Arrange the folded paper strips in the order in which you will apply them to the card.

4. Start with #1 on the pattern:

Cut a strip so that it is a little wider than the opening.
Line up the folded side of the strip with the inside edge in the area marked with the number 1.
Tape both ends of the strip to the back of the card
Using the next color, follow the same instructions for #2
repeating all the way around, working toward the center and going in order of the numbers. Stop when you have the desired size opening--remember you may place a small picture in the Iris instead of metallic paper.

Tape a piece of sparkle or metallic paper, a small picture, etc. to the center. Tape this layer to your card.

You may use 3D Foam pads if you find that it is too thick to tape directly to the card. I use carpet tape which can be purchased at K-Mart for a nominal amount.