Abstract: This talk presents three studies on the role of geometry and elasticity in shaping the behavior of thin structures interacting with their environment. Inspired by origami, the first project investigates how folding patterns in thin sheets immersed in a flow can significantly reduce drag and suppress flow speed dependance. The second project explores how a single fold in a slender ribbon affects its snapping dynamic, enhancing energy storage, increasing release speed, and altering stability. Finally, drawing inspiration from the whoopee cushion (prank toy), the third project examines the deflation of hyperelastic membranes filled with air, showing how deflation time depends on membrane and system parameters, and how contact-driven compression can be used to control the release and produce soft damping responses.