How it is calculated
If the target thickness is not an exact power of two, the next whole fold is used, after which the sheet is no thicker than the goal.
Folds = log2(start / target)
Where the numbers come from
- Starting thickness — unit in the field: mm
- Target thickness — unit in the field: mm
Example
From 1 mm to 0,125 mm takes 3 folds: 1 → 0,5 → 0,25 → 0,125.
Questions
Which units is the thickness in?
Whichever is convenient, as long as the start and the target use the same units.
Does one fold halve the area?
Yes, the model is exactly that: the thickness doubles. In the formula we are going toward a smaller thickness, so we divide.
Why can't I fold it eight times?
The calculator allows it. By hand, stiffness and the sheet size get in the way.