Origami

What is Origami?

Origami is the fun art of folding paper into beautiful shapes. The word "origami" comes from Japan, where "ori" means to fold and "kami" means paper. But people all over the world have enjoyed folding paper for a very long time. No one really knows when origami began!

Origami is all about turning a flat square piece of paper into a sculpture just by folding it. Most origami artists do not cut, glue, or mark the paper. When cuts are used, it is called kirigami. There are two main types of origami: ceremonial origami, used for special events, and recreational origami, which is just for fun.

Fun Origami Facts

One of the most famous origami models is the paper crane. It looks like a little bird and is very popular. People also use origami ideas in real life! For example, they use origami shapes to help make stents that support people’s bodies, and they use origami styles to make packaging to protect things.

Origami can be very easy or very tricky. A few simple folds can make lovely and detailed designs. You can start with a basic square piece of paper and create something amazing!

Origami Around the World

Today, many countries use the word "origami," but some places have their own special names. In China, it is called zhe zhi, in Korea it is called jongi jeobgi, and in Spain, people say papiroflexia. No matter what it is called, folding paper is a joy that children and grown-ups love everywhere.