Welcome to House of Origami

Origami comes from the Japanese words ori meaning "folding", and kami meaning "paper". It is the art of paper folding which is often associated with Japanese culture. In modern usage, the word "origami" is used as an inclusive term for all folding practices, regardless of their culture of origin. The goal is to transform a flat square sheet of paper into a finished sculpture through folding and sculpting techniques. Modern origami practitioners generally discourage the use of cuts, glue, or markings on the paper. Origami folders often use the Japanese word kirigami to refer to designs which use cuts.

The small number of basic origami folds can be combined in a variety of ways to make intricate designs. The best-known origami model is the Japanese paper crane. In general, these designs begin with a square sheet of paper whose sides may be of different colors, prints, or patterns. Traditional Japanese origami, which has been practiced since the Edo period (1603-1867), has often been less strict about these conventions, sometimes cutting the paper or using non-square shapes to start with. The principles of origami are also used in stents, packaging, and other engineering applications.

MASTERCLASS LESSONS

Learn only from the masters of origami

Wiley Fox

Wiley Fox

In Japan, foxes symbolize intelligence associated with the Shinto spirit Inari. This particular origami was created by Kashuaki Serizawa and produces one of the finest examples of the Kitsune origami style.

9/10 SKILL LEVEL
Regal Bloodhound

Regal Bloodhound

Bloodhounds have been part of European iconography in hunting. In this lesson, we will learn to uses two complementary paper colors to produce an simple but effective Tamamushi effect.

5/10 SKILL LEVEL
Wise Owl

Wise Owl

Owls have always been part of lore and it isn't surprising that we also find it very much in origami. This lesson is created by Haruko Nakashima by composing different pieces into one without glue or adhesive.

7/10 SKILL LEVEL
Resting Lion

Resting Lion

The king of the animal world finds its place among important origami creations. This particular example uses the wet-folding technique by the famous origami artist, Shintaru Omahshi.

8/10 SKILL LEVEL