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DIY and Crafts

The 101 Guide to Origami

Introduction: What is Origami?

Origami is the traditional Japanese art of paper folding. It can be done with a single sheet of paper or multiple sheets of paper, and it can be used to create figures and shapes in two-dimensional space. Origami is often associated with children and arts & crafts, but it has grown into an international art form that anyone can learn to do.

kusudama star japanese traditional paper
kusudama star

What is the History of Origami?

Senbazuru orikata origami

Origami is the art of paper folding that is usually associated with Japanese culture. However, different paper folding techniques were developed in different parts of the world independently. It is said that origami started in Japan in the 6th century after Chinese monks introduced paper to the country. At that time, paper was very expensive and it was used only for religious ceremonial purposes.

The first origami book to be published was Senbazuru orikata, in1797.

Why You Should Consider Practicing Origami in Your Life

Origami is a traditional art form that’s been practiced for centuries and is still popular today. It can be used to make all sorts of things, from flowers to animals, even geometric shapes like cubes. The possibilities are endless!

Origami can be used to develop motor coordination, understand geometry and fractions, develop problem-solving skills, spatial intelligence and visualization.

In addition, origami is a relaxing form of art that can provide mental and physical stimulus, developing hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and mental concentration.

Tips to Get Started & Creating Amazing Paper Models

In this section, we will cover some tips on how to get started with origami and also recommend some books that are great for paper modeling.

1) Get Started With Paper Models:

There are many ways to get started with origami. Some people like to start by making a simple origami model while others might find it more fun to try their hand at a more complicated 3D model that they can assemble. There are many interesting tutorials on YouTube. I also recommend these websites:

https://en.origami-club.com/ – Easy models with diagrams and animations

Tadashi Mori Origami Channel – Well-produced videos for beginners, intermediate and advanced models.

2) Tips for Creating Amazing Paper Models:

  • Use the right tools: You’ll need a square piece of paper for most models. You can use origami paper, but you can start practicing with any piece of paper that is lying around! A ruler, penknife and cutting mat are also useful when you’re working with rectangular or irregular pieces of paper. Other items like toothpicks, straws, popsicle sticks, strings, wire and beads can be used depending on the model
  • Fold on a flat surface.
  • Have fun and don’t forget: Practice makes perfect better! The more you practice, the better you will become!
origami crane – tsuru
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