Origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, is a fun and creative activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. While traditional origami uses specialized paper, you can also make beautiful origami creations using printer paper. In this guide, we'll explore how to make origami with printer paper, including tips on choosing the right paper and step-by-step instructions for creating a simple origami crane.
Before we dive into the origami project, let's discuss the type of printer paper that works best for origami. Standard printer paper, also known as copier paper, is a good starting point. It's inexpensive, widely available, and has a suitable weight and texture for origami. However, keep in mind that printer paper is not as durable as origami paper, so your creations may not hold their shape as well in the long run. For a more authentic origami experience, consider using origami paper or kami, which is specifically designed for paper folding.
Preparing Your Printer Paper for Origami
Once you've gathered your printer paper, it's time to prepare it for origami. The most important aspect of preparing your paper is to ensure it's square. Printer paper is typically cut to standard sizes, such as 8.5 x 11 inches, which are not suitable for origami. To make your paper square, you'll need to trim it down to a smaller size. A common origami paper size is 6 x 6 inches, but you can also use smaller or larger squares depending on the complexity of the model you want to create.
To trim your paper to size, follow these steps:
- Measure and mark the desired square size on your printer paper.
- Using scissors, carefully cut along the marked lines to create a square piece of paper.
- Repeat this process until you have enough squares to create the desired number of origami models.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Origami Creations
When trimming your printer paper to a square, consider the size of the origami model you want to create. Smaller squares are better suited for intricate, detailed models, while larger squares are ideal for simpler, larger-scale creations. For beginners, it's a good idea to start with a medium-sized square, such as 6 x 6 inches, and work your way up to larger or smaller sizes as your skills improve.
Another factor to consider when choosing the size of your paper is the final size of the origami model. Keep in mind that folding paper in half will reduce its size by half, folding it in quarters will reduce it by a quarter, and so on. For example, if you want to create a 3-inch origami crane, you'll need to start with a 6 x 6-inch square of paper, as folding it in half will result in a 3 x 3-inch square, and then folding it in half again will create the final 3-inch origami crane.
Understanding Origami Symbols and Diagrams
Before you begin folding your origami creation, it's essential to understand the symbols and diagrams used in origami instructions. Origami diagrams typically consist of a series of line drawings that illustrate the steps involved in creating a specific origami model. The lines in these diagrams represent the folds you need to make, with dashed lines indicating mountain folds (folds that create a raised, mountain-like shape) and solid lines indicating valley folds (folds that create a depressed, valley-like shape).
Origami diagrams may also include arrows and other symbols that indicate the direction of the fold or the final position of a particular flap or edge. Familiarize yourself with these symbols and use them as a reference throughout the folding process. If you're unsure about a particular step, don't hesitate to consult the diagram or look up additional resources to clarify the instructions.
Creating an Origami Crane with Printer Paper
The origami crane is a classic and iconic origami model that's perfect for beginners. Its simple design and elegant appearance make it an excellent project for those new to origami, and it's a great way to practice basic folding techniques. In this section, we'll provide step-by-step instructions for creating an origami crane using printer paper.
Before you begin, make sure you have a square piece of printer paper and a clear understanding of the origami symbols and diagrams. You may also want to have a flat surface and a ruler or straight edge to help you make precise folds. Now that you're prepared, let's dive into the steps for creating an origami crane.
Step 1: Fold the Paper in Half Diagonally
Start by placing your square piece of printer paper on a flat surface with one corner facing up. This will be the starting point for your origami crane. Next, fold the paper in half diagonally, creating a triangle shape. The crease should run from the top corner of the square to the opposite bottom corner. Make sure the edges of the paper are aligned and the crease is as smooth and precise as possible.
To create a sharp crease, use your fingers to gently press along the fold line, then unfold the paper and smooth out the crease with the edge of your hand or a bone folder. Once you're satisfied with the crease, unfold the paper back into a square, but keep the crease visible as a reference for the next step.
Step 2: Fold the Paper in Half Along the Other Diagonal
Now that you have a diagonal crease on your paper, fold it in half along the other diagonal, creating another triangle shape. This time, the crease should run from the top left corner of the square to the bottom right corner. Again, make sure the edges of the paper are aligned and the crease is smooth and precise.
Press along the fold line with your fingers, then unfold the paper and smooth out the crease. You should now have an 'X' crease on your paper, with two diagonal creases intersecting in the center. These creases will serve as the basis for the wings and tail of your origami crane.
Step 3: Fold the Paper in Half Horizontally
With the 'X' crease still visible, fold the paper in half horizontally, creating a rectangle shape. The crease should run along the horizontal centerline of the square, dividing it into two equal parts. Make sure the edges of the paper are aligned and the crease is smooth and precise.
Press along the fold line with your fingers, then unfold the paper and smooth out the crease. You should now have a horizontal crease on your paper, which will serve as the base for the crane's body and head.
Step 4: Fold the Paper in Half Vertically
Next, fold the paper in half vertically, creating another rectangle shape. The crease should run along the vertical centerline of the square, dividing it into two equal parts. Make sure the edges of the paper are aligned and the crease is smooth and precise.
Press along the fold line with your fingers, then unfold the paper and smooth out the crease. You should now have a vertical crease on your paper, which will help you create the crane's beak and tail.
Step 5: Fold the Paper into a Bird Base
With both the horizontal and vertical creases still visible, fold the paper in half diagonally, creating a kite shape. The crease should run from the top left corner of the square to the bottom right corner. Make sure the edges of the paper are aligned and the crease is smooth and precise.
Press along the fold line with your fingers, then unfold the paper and smooth out the crease. You should now have a bird base, which is a fundamental origami shape that serves as the starting point for many origami models, including the crane.
Step 6: Fold the Wings and Tail
With the bird base still intact, fold the paper in half along the horizontal crease, creating a rectangle shape. This will be the body and head of your origami crane. Next, fold the paper in half along the vertical crease, creating a square shape. This will be the beak and tail of the crane.
Now, fold the paper in half along the diagonal crease that runs from the top left corner of the square to the bottom right corner. This will create the wings and tail of the crane. Make sure the edges of the paper are aligned and the crease is smooth and precise.
Step 7: Create the Crane's Head and Beak
With the wings and tail still folded, unfold the paper slightly to reveal the beak and head of the crane. Fold the paper in half along the vertical crease that runs through the beak, creating a sharp point. This will be the beak of the crane.
Next, fold the paper in half along the horizontal crease that runs through the head, creating a flat, triangular shape. This will be the head of the crane. Make sure the edges of the paper are aligned and the creases are smooth and precise.
Step 8: Fold the Wings and Tail into Position
With the head and beak of the crane in place, unfold the paper slightly to reveal the wings and tail. Fold the paper in half along the diagonal crease that runs from the top left corner of the square to the bottom right corner. This will create the wings and tail of the crane.
Next, fold the wings and tail into position by tucking the edges of the paper into the creases on the body of the crane. Make sure the wings and tail are smooth and well-aligned with the body of the crane.
Step 9: Finalize the Origami Crane
With the wings and tail in position, gently pull the head of the crane away from the body to create a three-dimensional shape. Make sure the beak and head are facing forward and the wings and tail are symmetrical and well-aligned.
Your origami crane is now complete! Admire your creation and enjoy the satisfaction of having made a beautiful origami model using nothing but a square of printer paper and a few simple folds.
Origami is a rewarding and enjoyable hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced folder, there's always something new to learn and create in the world of origami. So grab some printer paper and start folding – the possibilities are endless!