Rabbit (Jun Maekawa): Instructions

Hi there,

it really depends on the model. Some simpler ones I might just fold two or three times before I make a video. Some I fold many more times. But there's also more complex models, which I only folded a few times before making a video. A good, recent example is the Chelone by Melina Hermsen. I folded it once with Melina to learn it, then once more to practice and ensure I remembered all the steps correctly, and then made the video.
Also, some models I fold from memory, for others I have the diagrams nearby and once in a while check how to continue. And I don't keep models I made a video for memorised. Usually, after a couple of weeks, I probably won't be able to fold the model from heart anymore - or at least not smoothly. I don't mind that at all, after all, I usually have diagrams or at the very least my video, which I can refer to when I want to fold the model again. :)
Now, for me, folding models has changed since I started making videos. For each step, I automatically wonder how I could explain that step to others, or wonder what nice reference I can come up with. I think about how this step might affect the final model, so that I can potentially share such insights in a tutorial. I also try to understand steps, not just execute them. If I struggle with a step, I usually practice it until I have that "aha" moment and I can then give tips on how to more easily fold that step. I'm not sure this explains well how folding has changed for me, but I hope it gives you at least a general idea. One side effect is also that if someone teaches me in person (just me, not in a workshop), I (a) sometimes ask very particular questions, to understand the process better and (b) want to finish each step completely by myself. I suppose it can sometimes slow down the folding, but I do love to hear about the insights or motivations someone else has about a model - especially if they designed it. To me, it's a privilege to learn from others, so I try to make the most of it - and I believe people usually appreciate the extra interest, rather than find it bothersome (I hope!).

Does that cover at least part of your question? I know it's vague, but you probably already expected the answer not to be exact as in how often or or long, right? :)

Best wishes and happy folding,

-- Sara