What is Origami?
Origami is the craft of folding paper into shapes, animals, decorations, or other useful objects. It doesn’t require external ‘anchors’ to hold in place, such as gluing or sewing. It also doesn’t need the paper to be cut to fashion objects.
The term ‘Origami’ comes from the Japanese term for ‘folded paper’.
What Can You Make With Origami?
There are a variety of shapes that you can make with origami. Popular items include:
- Paper cranes
- Flowers
- Stars
- Boxes
- Animals
- Boats
- Hearts
- Bookmarks
- Geometric shapes
Beginners can start with simpler shapes, such as hearts or cranes, before moving onto more complex designs.
Is Origami Good For Beginners?
Yes, it’s a great hobby for beginners. Not only is it very cheap but it also doesn’t require many supplies or need much space.
Starting with larger pieces of paper can be a good idea, as it’s less fiddly and easier to see the folds and line up the corners.
What Do You Need to Start Origami?
You only need a few things to start origami:
- Regular or origami paper
- A flat surface
- Instructions or diagrams for your chosen design
- Patience!
Although special paper exists for origami, as a complete beginner, you do not need this. A clean, unripped piece of paper that can be folded is all you need to get started.
How Much Space Does Origami Need?
Very little. You can set up on a regular table, desk or other craft area. Anywhere with a flat surface is ideal, as it’s not a messy hobby that requires, glue, paint, solvents, or glitter.
If you do keep supplies such as paper in one place, this is also easy to store. You can also invest is a small box to store your completed creations.
Is Origami Expensive?
No, it’s one of the easiest hobbies to start. You do not need any specialist equipment as a complete beginner, and you can even practice with scrap paper. Unlike other crafts, you only need your hands, rather than supplies such as needles, fabric, machines, or glue.
Although patterned paper is an option later on, you do not need this to start off. In addition, you can store completed projects on a shelf or in a simple box; there is no need to invest in fancy storage.
Who Might Enjoy Origami?
Origami is great for people who like:
- Quiet hobbies
- Paper crafts
- Low-cost hobbies
- Non-messy crafts
- Step-by-step instructions
It may not be ideal for you if you:
- Don’t like following instructions
- Dislike precise folding
- Prefer freeform crafts
- Prefer using softer materials such as yarn or fabric
Is Origami the Same as Paper Craft?
Origami is a type of paper craft that is distinct in its focus on folding. Other paper crafts such as scrapbooking, card making, or collage may involve other processes, such as gluing, cutting, or painting.
Is Origami Just For Children?
No, it’s not only for kids. Whilst simple origami shapes are great for children, adults can progress onto more complicated designs, or keep it simple just to relax!
Final Thoughts
Origami is a great hobby to try if you don’t want to overcommit to buying lots of supplies. Whilst it requires precision and following instructions, you can start with simple designs before progressing onto more complex shapes.