Folding Money Tricks: T-Shirt Edition

Folding a dollar bill into a t-shirt is a fun and creative way to give cash as a gift or leave a tip. This unique origami project can be done with any dollar bill, although some prefer using a $1 bill. The process involves a series of strategic folds and creases to create the shape of a shirt, complete with a collar and sleeves. It may take a few tries to perfect the technique, but the end result is a stylish and impressive dollar bill shirt.

Getting started: Fold the dollar bill in half, unfold, then fold both sides to the middle crease

To get started on folding a dollar bill into a T-shirt, you first need to fold the bill in half lengthwise, like a hot dog bun. Make sure the picture of George is on the inside. Next, unfold the dollar bill. You should now have a clear middle crease. Then, fold both sides of the dollar bill inwards to the middle crease. This is the first step in creating the structure and shape of the T-shirt.

When folding the dollar bill in half initially, ensure you are folding it lengthwise, creating a clear middle crease. This will be the foundation for the rest of the folds. After you've made this initial fold, unfold the bill and bring both sides towards the centre crease. This will create the structure for the body of the T-shirt.

It is important to be precise with your folds and to ensure that the edges are aligned neatly with the middle crease. This will make the final result look more like a T-shirt. Taking care with these initial steps will also make the subsequent folding steps easier and more accurate.

By following these first few steps, you will have created the basic structure for the T-shirt. The next steps will involve further refining the shape and adding details to make it look more like a T-shirt. However, getting these initial folds right is crucial to the success of the overall design.

Folding the collar: Fold the corners towards the centre line to form the collar

Now for the fun part: it's time to fold the collar! This is what will give your dollar bill t-shirt its distinctive shape and structure. Here's what you need to do:

Take the same end of the dollar bill that you previously folded and flip it over again. You should now be looking at the front side of the bill, with George's portrait facing up. At this end, you'll notice the two folds you made earlier, creating a centre line. Now, take the corners of this end and fold them towards that centre line. It doesn't have to be precise, but you want to create a collar-like shape. This step is important as it will help hold the rest of the shirt in place.

You can adjust the exact angle and size of the collar to your liking. The key is to ensure that the collar is wide enough to accommodate the next fold. Speaking of which, once you've folded the collar, you'll take the opposite end of the dollar bill and fold it in. This will create a "necklace" effect, as mentioned in the previous step, and also allow you to control the length of your finished shirt.

After you've folded the opposite end, you'll fold it again, tucking it neatly under the collar. This will give the shirt a polished and secure look. To get a snug fit, tuck the end under the collar first, then slide your finger along the bottom to form a crisp crease.

Now that you've folded the collar and secured the opposite end, your dollar bill t-shirt is really starting to take shape! In the next steps, you'll learn how to add sleeves and put the final touches on your unique origami creation.

Making the sleeves: Unfold the last step, then fold out and back to create sleeves

Now, for the sleeves. Unfold the last step, which should leave you with a long section. Take an imaginary line and draw it from the top and bottom points of the first crease on the left and a point somewhere in the middle of the centre section. Valley fold out and crease back so that it looks like you've popped a sleeve out of the side.

After you've made one sleeve, repeat the process on the other side to make the second sleeve. You should now have a dollar bill with two sleeves sticking out. Now, flip the whole section back up and tuck the edge of the shirt under the two collar flaps.

And there you have it—a dollar bill shirt with sleeves! You could even make some matching pants to go with it. Congratulations on successfully folding a dollar bill into a shirt!

Finishing touches: Tuck the edge of the shirt under the collar

Now for the finishing touches! You've folded a dollar bill into a T-shirt, with a collar and sleeves, but there's one last step to give it that polished look. Tuck the edge of the shirt under the collar for a neat and tidy finish. Here's how to do it:

First, unfold the last step of creating the sleeves to go back to the long section. Then, take the edge of the shirt, which is the bottom edge of the dollar bill, and gently lift it upwards. Slide the edge under the collar, making sure it is snug and secure. You can use your fingernail or a thin object to help guide the edge under the collar if needed.

The collar will now hold this fold in place, giving your dollar bill shirt a crisp and finished look. You can adjust the shirt by sliding your finger along the bottom edge to form a neat crease. This final step ensures that your dollar bill T-shirt looks neat and tidy, with no loose ends.

Feel free to add your own creative touches to the shirt, such as drawing on it or adding accessories like a tie or pocket. You can even try making matching pants or trousers for a complete outfit! The possibilities are endless with this fun origami project.

Remember, it might take a few tries to perfect the technique, so don't be discouraged if you don't get it right the first time. With a bit of practice, you'll be folding dollar bill shirts like a pro!

Tips and tricks: Use crisp dollar bills for best results

When folding a dollar bill into a t-shirt, it's important to use a crisp, new bill if you want the best results. Older, more worn bills are more likely to tear or not hold their shape, which can be frustrating if you're trying to get the precise folds needed for this project.

A crisp bill will also give your finished t-shirt a neater appearance. The folds will be sharper and the creases will hold better, resulting in a more polished-looking shirt. If you're using a dollar bill that's been in circulation for a while, take care when handling it to avoid tearing, especially at the creases.

If you're nervous about attempting this with a real dollar bill, you can always practice with a piece of paper first. Cut out a rectangle that's approximately the same size as a dollar bill and use that to get a feel for the folding process. That way, you can perfect your technique before attempting the real thing.

Additionally, make sure your dollar bill is laid out flat before you start folding. This will ensure that your folds are even and precise. It's also a good idea to work on a flat surface to help you achieve neat, accurate folds.

Frequently asked questions