Origami
The Japanese art of paper folding transforms flat sheets into intricate sculptures without cutting or glue. With just paper and patience, you can create animals, flowers, boxes, and decorative objects that look impossible to make.
What You'll Do
What You Need
Required
- ●Square of paper (any paper 6+ inches)($0)
- ●Flat, clean work surface($0)
Optional
- ○Origami paper pack (kami)($5-10)
- ○Bone folder or ruler for creasing($3-8)
How To Do It
- 1
Get your paper ready
Use a 6-inch of origami paper (), or cut printer paper into a . Thinner paper is easier to fold for beginners. Work on a clean, flat surface.
- 2
Learn the basic folds
Master two fundamental folds: the (folding toward you) and the (folding away). Practice making crisp s by running your fingernail or a ruler along each fold.
- 3
Fold your first model
Start with a simple animal face or traditional crane. Follow a step-by-step tutorial exactly - don't skip ahead.
- 4
Repeat and refine
Fold the same model 3-5 times. Each attempt will be cleaner as your muscle memory develops. Compare your first and fifth crane to see your progress.
- 5
Try a new model
Once comfortable with one design, pick another beginner model. Build your repertoire gradually - jumping to complex models too soon leads to frustration.
Tips
- →Common mistake: rushing through folds. Take time to align edges precisely before creasing - a small error at the start compounds into a lopsided final model.
- →Reinforce each by running your fingernail or a ruler firmly along the fold. Weak s make later steps harder.
- →Start with larger paper (6 inches or bigger). Smaller paper is harder to fold precisely and is better for experienced folders.
- →If a fold goes wrong, unfold and try again rather than forcing it. Paper is cheap - give yourself permission to start over.
Communities
Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to learn origami?
You can fold your first crane in 15-20 minutes by following a tutorial. With a few hours of practice, you'll be able to fold it from memory.
What paper should I use?
Any paper works to start! Cut printer paper into a 6-inch . Origami paper () is thinner and easier to fold, but costs $5-10 for 100 sheets.
Why do my creases look messy?
You're likely rushing. Align edges precisely before creasing, then run your fingernail firmly along the fold. Start over if a fold is misaligned.
What if my paper tears while folding?
Use thinner paper or fold more gently. Thick paper like cardstock is hard to fold. Regular printer paper or origami paper () works best for beginners.