The Art of Origami

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Origami is the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative shapes and figures. It is an art form that is both fun and challenging at the same time.

I received an origami book for Christmas a few years ago from my sweet friend, Loretta. I love that the book is full of ornament ideas and so appropriately titled: “Ornagami” by Gay Merrill Gross.

I have to admit, I was a little reluctant to give it a try. Mainly, because paint is my main medium in art and I thought paper folding would be boring (did I really say “boring”). 🙂 Plus, reading instructions drives me crazy!!!

However, after giving it a try, it is an art form that I will be practicing on a regular basis. It challenged me in following each step (and carefully reading each step until I understood what to do). I found it to be a very creative process and stimulating for my mind.

The projects are designed for various levels of skill: simple, intermediate and challenging.

I did the Dove at the intermediate level.

Along with the instructions from the book, Ornagami, I have shared my folding step examples with you.

You may need to revert to the visual instructions from the book and read them a few times to get an understanding of the step required for the origami ornament.

Before starting, it is important to know the “Arrows & Symbols” in the origami instructions.
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SUPPLIES NEEDED: Paper and scissors (The 8×8 inch paper is included in the book).
STEPS 1 – 5
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1. Fold 8×8 sheet in half
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2.Fold triangle in half (unfold and turn over)
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3. & 4. Bringing the right side point to middle and make a pinch and open and fold bottom corners up to top corners
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5. Fold side corners to the middle and unfold
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Steps 6 – 11
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6. Inverting right and left corners (see the book visual & explanation)
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7. & 8. Mountain-fold and rotate clockwise
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Top View of boat shape form
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9. Lifting up wings
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10. Fold wing down
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11. Fold tail down
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Steps 12-17
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12. & 13. Lift tail to upright position and mountain fold
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14.Fold up wings
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15. Form head
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16. & 17. Open wing pockets and complete for use
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Wow…even going through the steps for the post was a great exercise for the mind! 🙂

This would be a great project to do with the children in your life. Very little mess and will help them to learn to follow instructions while being creative at the same time.

I hope these photo examples will help give you a step by step visual as you dive into this fascinating art form.

Feel free to share your creations with us on Facebook. I would love to know what you think about this project.

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Enjoy the Happy Made,
Michelle