This time of year, I live in a blast furnace. I never know what kinds of art or media gatherings I’m going to end up at, but the need for a folding fan is a constant for at least the three months bracketing Summer Solstice.
I have plenty of folding fans, from lovely old carved bone and ebony antiques (Really, I plan to restore them someday) to cheapie plastic or machine-cut sandalwood. I have scholarly and coffee table books about fans, for reference. I’ve made flat and folding fans since 1988, more as creative exercises than any marketable craft. 
Last October I decided I wanted a leather fan with a sort-of steampunk/fantasy vibe. After a week or so of cutting, carving, stamping, and painting, it came out – all right. But the reverse side was a little boring, so I just spiffed it up with some pinstripes in bronze leaf flakes. Once I figure out the belt holster hardware, I should be good to go for any occasion.
Materials: thin cowhide, thick cowhide (tooling grade), acrylic paint, iridescent powders, glass mirrors (inlaid in the guards), water-based outdoor varnish, brass hardware, waxed polyester cord, and glass beads. Approx. 7.5″ H x 11.5″ W x 2″. Artist’s collection, until I get bored and make one I like better.