Maze Living Hinge Generator
Create living hinges from pinwheel double spirals: in each cell, two rectangular S-spirals rotated 90° to each other cross in the centre and form four freely springing arms. Unlike row-based patterns, the sheet flexes like fabric in every direction — even over spherical shapes. A single parameter (the spiral pitch) scales the entire pattern.
Material
Width of the plate
Height of the plate
Cut Pattern
Length of each individual cut line
Bridge width between cuts in the same row
Distance between cut rows
Appearance
No design generated
Pinwheel double spirals
Two interlocking S-spirals per cell whose centre bars cross — the pinwheel principle creates four movable spiral arms and maximum compliance.
Flexes in all directions
No preferred bending axis: the sheet can curve lengthwise, crosswise and diagonally — ideal for organic and doubly curved shapes.
One parameter, guaranteed cut-safe
The grid is rigidly coupled to the spiral pitch: the web between neighbouring cuts is always pitch/2 — overlapping cuts are impossible by construction.
Tips for good results
- Choosing the pitch: The template value of 5.25 mm works well for 3 mm plywood. Smaller pitch = finer spirals and a softer sheet, larger pitch = sturdier.
- Material thickness: The web is pitch/2 — keep it at least in the order of the material thickness, otherwise the arms break easily.
- Grain direction: On plywood, place the pattern diagonally to the face-veneer grain so the spiral arms do not split along the grain.
- Test cut: Cut a small patch first (e.g. 50 × 50 mm) and check the flex before committing the whole sheet.
- Bend slowly: The pattern stretches in several directions — go slowly on the first bend so the arms can settle.
Typical applications
Doubly curved surfaces
Bowls, domes and organically shaped cladding that must curve in two directions at once.
Bags & textile-like objects
Wooden “fabric” for bags, book spines or wooden curtains — the pattern drapes softly like cloth.
Lamps & decor
Lampshades and sculptures with the distinctive meander look that casts beautiful shadow patterns when lit.
Ergonomic surfaces
Seat and backrest surfaces that adapt to the body without hinges or padding.