The TUVWXYZ star is a complex modular planar model, designed by the amazing Meenakshi Mukerji.

The model consists of 7 intersecting stars, each star made of 6 arms. All the stars meet at the centre of the model. A total of 42 modules are required for the star, 7 colours and 6 modules in each colour. Folding the modules is quite simple, though time consuming.

Assembling the star is a good puzzle! I had trouble in understanding when to start adding the 7th colour, since you actually start with 6 colours. I eventually did figure it out :) The 7th star is the first one to get completed. In the picture, this was the orange coloured one.

Model Details:

Model: TUVWXYZ Star

Creator: Meenakshi Mukerji

Book: Ornamental Origami

Author: Meenakshi Mukerji

Difficulty Level: Complex

Paper Ratio: Square

Paper Size: 4 inches

Instructions: http://britishorigami.info/academic/davidpetty/origamiemporium/images/mm_tuvwxyz.gif

Number of Modules: 42

The XYZ Diamonds is another planar origami model, made from 3 intersecting diamonds. The design is by Francis Ow, the well known folder/creator of origami hearts.

Though it looks like there are only 3 planes, joined in the middle as though by magic(!), the planar model is actually made of 6 modules. Accuracy is required in folding the modules, else fitting each unit into the next is almost impossible. The first 4 modules can be fitted in easily. The last 2 are not that easy and this is where accuracy of folds makes a difference.

The model works best with 3 colours and 2 modules of each colour.

Model Details:

Model: XYZ Diamond 

Creator: Francis Ow

Difficulty Level: Low Intermediate

Paper Ratio: Square

Paper Size: 5 inch squares

Modules: 6

Instructions: Dave's Origami Emporium

Tutorial: Youtube

The WXYZ, created by Tung Ken Lam, had set in motion the creation a series of planar models by various origamists including Francis Ow, David Petty, Satoshi Kamiya and Meenakshi Mukerji. The WXYZ is among the simplest of the planar models and is made up of 4 intersecting triangles.

It is quite simple to fold though the assembly will take up some time. I am glad I finally managed to do a planar model though the colour combination isn't the greatest! The red and orange together don't stand out quite that well.

These models have a unique naming convention, which is based on geometric principles. The number of letters used is the same as the number of planes in the model. Thus WXYZ would mean it has 4 planes.

Model Details:

Model: WXYZ Planar Model 

Creator: Tung Ken Lam

Book: Origami A-B-C

Author: David Petty

Difficulty Level: Low Intermediate

Paper Ratio: Square

Paper Size: 4 inch squares

Model Size: ~5 inches from tip to tip

Modules: 12

Diagram: British Origami