Origami Instructions - Getting Started

The birthplace of origami is still a mystery. Paper was developed in China in the first century A.D., and Buddhist monks brought it to Japan by the sixth century A.D. However there are not many written records from that time, so it is not known whether origami first began in China or Japan. However, no one will argue that Japan developed origami to a high art form. The word origami is Japanese: oru means "to fold", and kami means "paper".

Many grownups remember making origami items as a child. It was often a case of watching as another youngster showed how to make a paper airplane or something similar. After a while, we develop a set of origami instructions in our head, for making several airplanes, boats, animals, water balloons and other toys.

As it turns out, there are only so many ways to fold paper. Developing a "language" of folding helps simplify passing on origami teachings. Terms like "mountain fold" and "valley fold" are used over and over again. Basic fold patterns such as "square base" and "bird base" can be used as starting points for many different origami pieces. From the basic building blocks, an effectively infinite number of origami items can be made.

Special origami kits are available. These contain squares of paper, often colored on one side only. This helps to enhance the three dimensional effect of the item being folded. The paper is also very thin, allowing it to be folded many times. Origami items can also be made from scrap paper, such as standard printer paper. This is often best for paper airplanes, due to its weight and size: larger airplanes (of a given design) generally fly better. True origami is made from one piece of paper without using scissors, glue or decorative items such as markers. However, remember that the goal is to have fun, so use what you like.

The effect of origami as kids is to teach us creativity, patience and following a process. As grownups, paper folding is a great stress reliever and an effective way to bond further with our kids. Whether you'd like to make a simple paper boat or fold an elephant out of a dollar bill, origami is a fun, simple and inexpensive hobby. So get a piece of paper and start folding!

If you'd like to know more about origami, including how to fold specific items, visit our site at www.origami-instructions.com.

This article may be reprinted if proper credit is given and all links left intact. Copyright©2005 Origami-Instructions.com

Andre is a contributor to Origami-Instructions.com.

---

Amish Quilts ? A Dying American Art

Amish quilting has been a tradition for more than a... Read More

Friendship Albums

My 12-year-old daughter was mad at me when I refused... Read More

Saltwater Coral Reef Aquariums - 5 Tips for Success

Do you dream of watching the natural beauty of the... Read More

Do You Really Know What You?re Buying?

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a popular gift... Read More

Handmade Quilts are Made with Love and Make Great Family Heirlooms!

Today's handmade quilts are more like a work of art... Read More

Depression Glass Companies

Just before the advent of the Great Depression, more than... Read More

Scrapbook Photos -- Getting Adventurous With Your Layouts

When you have selected the photos for your scrapbook, you'll... Read More

Soap Making For Beginners ? Melt And Pour Process

As you will learn, soap making can be simple or... Read More

The Easy Way to Make a Club Logo

Are you a member of a club or association? Have... Read More

Woodworking: The Best Wood For Beginners

Woodworking: Know Your WoodWood is made of cellulose fibers, held... Read More

The Leather Look, Accents, and Punching for Your Scrapbook

A leather look can add elegance to your scrapbooking page.To... Read More

Make Your Own Citronella Candles

Need a cost effective way to get rid of mosquitoes?... Read More

Scrapbooking Tips And Tricks For Photos And Images

When you're incorporating pictures of any kind into your scrap... Read More

Embroidery Machine Use by New Owners for Good Results

Many new home embroidery machine owners have to learn on... Read More

The ABCs of Ceramics

Ceramics can be delicate and decorative or unrefined and utilitarian.... Read More

Simple, and Stylish Wedding Reception Centerpiece: Craft Project

This simple, yet elegant table centerpiece is a great way... Read More

Scrapbook Photographs -- How A Picture Can Be Worth A Thousand Words

For many people, photos are at the heart of their... Read More

A Beginners Guide to Buying Authentic Swords Online

Looking at all the various swords for sale online can... Read More

Need A Scrapbook Journaling Idea?

Try using song lyrics in your next layout.Song lyrics can... Read More

Create A Gift Basket For A Dog Lover!

The choice of what gift to give your family and... Read More

Antiques From Europe...Is It Really The Goose That Layed the Golden Egg?

Many dealers and auctioneers have been bringing container loads of... Read More

Getting Started With Radio Control Cars

Take note that you need to decide whether you want... Read More

The Wonderful Art of Bonsai

The potential for enjoyment of Bonsai trees is enormous. These... Read More

Craft Crocheting from Your Home

Crocheting is not only a craft but an... Read More

Rainy Day Fun - Crafts For Kids

Rainy days can be so boring for a child?and just... Read More

Cleaning Silk Bouquets In 3 Simple Steps

How To Clean A Silk BouquetA Silk bouquet can last... Read More

Use Order and Text to Give Life to Your Scrapbook

There are no specific rules stating that all photographs or... Read More

How to Invest in Antique, Vintage, or Modern Jewelry

As Antique Jewelry is 'Really' based on the 'Collectability' and... Read More

Idle Hands Beget The Devils Work

As a southern girl, sewing was a rite of passage.... Read More

Woodworking Beginners: Secret Tips To Start Right

Woodworking: Where To Start - Tips From Experienced WoodworkersWoodworking encompasses... Read More

Antique Delft and Very Collectible Tiles and Ceramics: Beginners Start Here

So you fancy starting a collection but you're not sure... Read More

Kona Cotton: The Quilters & Embroiderers Dream Fabric

What, Exactly, Is Kona Cotton? Kona(R) cotton is a premium,... Read More

10 Slam-Dunk Crafts For Little Kids -- And Bigger Kids Too!

Crafting with young children really isn't about creating something in... Read More