Sounds like a Cheryl Phillips /WedgeWorks pattern - the 3D Mariners Compass using her folded fabric technique.
One of her books:
http://www.amazon.com/WedgeWorks-II-.../dp/0967789419
And a video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mhmG6W-O5c
with some very lively music showing how the 3D effect is created.
And here's her website:
http://www.phillipsfiberart.com/