The manufactures do not to a halfsies fold. I have seen 2 different methods in use.

One is the accordian fold. When partially seperated the end view is like a series of connected Ws. Each fold is the finished size of usually the width. Then when finished the length is folded the same way.

The second and most common is the roll fold. A slightly smaller than the finished size is selected. Then the amount of the blanket is rolled similar to a flat duct tape packet. The end size for the width is the accumulation of the thicknesses added in the rolls. Then the length is flat rolled to tthe finished size.

The rolled is the most common because it is less complicated therefore easier for the machine to accomplish. No complicated math formula. As mentioned in the following tip if you are careful and fold along the original creases it can go back to the original size. The major problem is that it is very tedious to do. But if you rush to get it over and done with you end up with a lumpy over sized package.

Emergency Space Blanket Tip

Anyone that has ever opened one of those cigarette pack sized emergency space blankets knows that it can be a real pain. The static cling and thee smooth surfaces causes them to stick together. Making it difficult to open up. Have you ever wondered how with stiff and cold fingers you could ever open it in a true emergency without tearing it to shreds?

Well the answer is a little careful preparation beforehand.

The best way is to take it outside on a calm day. Because this is a little messy so you might not want to do it in your living room. First carefully and calmly unpack and open the blanket. Give it a Very light dusting with either corn starch or baby powder. Then with care refold it back into its original configuration. Yes if you take your time it can be repacked just as small as the original package. Then it can be replaced in its carrying container for storage. It just takes some time and attention to detail.

The end result is the powder acts as a lubricant allowing it to be deployed much easier when it is needed.

Why the manufacturing companies don?t do this when packing them in the first place mystifies me. I can only suspect that them would rather save a couple of pennies than improve their product.

As for the heat sheet I don't see why this trick would not for it also. <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />