Origami

Japanese Paper Folding

You only need a piece of square paper and a pattern. The basic folds are often repeated for other patterns, so once you get the hang of a few, it becomes easier. It is a great hobby and the only downside is finding paper flowers, bugs and other items all over the house. We've begun to use them to decorate gifts. I like them better than bows.

Things to keep in mind about the paper:

• The thin origami paper from craft stores helps with crisp folds. 
• The larger the size, the easier for beginners.
• The traditional size used in Japan is the smaller size you will find at craft stores. 
• foil is fun and pretty, but not forgiving if you attempt to refold it.
• My daughter enjoys the small paper because of the challenge and how cute the small creations are.

Where to find the patterns:

• There are lots of books at that library and some of our favorite patterns have been from books.
• How to make origami app  for the ipod or iphone is what my daughter is using in these photos.
• Origami Club website has a lot of free instructions.

The next level of origami:

Origami is not only beautiful, but it is mathematical too (isn't everything?). The Documentary Between the Folds, which I enjoyed on Netflix, will amaze you with the artistry, history, and theory of paper folding.

Here is a youtube video we found while trying to find a good pattern for a violin. This type of origami is just amazing. We still haven't found that violin pattern, so if you happen to know of one, please let me know.

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