Folding fans are crafted using a clever design that allows them to collapse into a compact size when not in use. Generally, these handheld fans are shaped like a sector of a circle, with a key feature being their ability to fold. Here's a breakdown of how they are typically made:
Components
- Slats: These are the rigid supports, usually made from materials like wood, bamboo, plastic, or bone. They provide the fan's structure and allow it to fold.
- Thin Material: This is the flexible surface that catches the air, often made from paper, fabric, feathers, or other light materials.
- Pivot: This is the central point where all the slats are joined, allowing them to rotate and the fan to fold and unfold.
Manufacturing Process
The basic process of making a folding fan involves the following steps:
- Slat Creation:
- The slats are carefully shaped and cut to the desired length and width.
- If wooden or bamboo, they might be treated or polished.
- Material Preparation:
- The thin material (paper, fabric, etc.) is cut to a specific shape, matching the overall arc of the fan.
- It might be decorated with prints, paintings, or other embellishments.
- Assembly:
- The slats are attached at the pivot using a small rivet or pin, making sure they can rotate freely.
- The thin material is carefully glued or attached to the slats, ensuring it is taut when the fan is open.
- Finishing:
- The fan is inspected for any imperfections, and the handle or any final decorative elements are added.
- Some fans may include a tassel or ribbon tied to the pivot.
Materials Overview
| Component | Typical Materials |
|---|---|
| Slats | Wood, bamboo, plastic, bone, ivory |
| Thin Material | Paper, silk, cotton, lace, feathers, plastic, other light fabrics |
| Pivot | Metal rivet or pin |
Here's a summarized quote of the main point from the reference used:
Generally, purpose-made handheld fans are folding fans, which are shaped like a sector of a circle and made of a thin material (such as paper or feathers) mounted on slats which revolve around a pivot so that it can be closed when not in use.
