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How to Design Origami

The ancient art of paper folding, usually associated with Japan where it has been part of cultural celebrations for more than 1,000 years, also has been practiced in European cultures as well as Asian. Any art form as old as origami has had thousands of practitioners who have mastered thousands of models, so original origami is generally left to those who have practiced the basics enough to be familiar with standard models such as fish and squares. Books and the Internet offer countless opportunities to learn and ways to originate designs.

Things You'll Need

Origami paper, assorted sizes
Bone folder
Paper clips
Tweezers

Instructions

- 1
  Identify an object to be made of paper. Try to find something that is unique to the maker such as items in the home, office, yard or hobby. A new design can be anything manufactured or natural. Decide on a standard model that might be similar to the new idea. These models, like fish or blocks or dogs, can be found in origami instructions.
- 2
  Plan the parts of the design on a piece of paper beginning with anything that might be an appendage and where on the paper it would originate. Attach the first part or appendage to the second with a crease. Continue to fold the project until it approaches the intent. Repeat the project until it satisfies.
- 3
  Refine and simplify the model created. It might be the first try or the 20th attempt that finally approaches the design desired. In refining the model, mark the creases as if teaching it to someone else. See details in origami instructions.

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