Origami

by Chiharu Iishi (Japan)


Introduction
Origami is a Japanese traditional activity. Every Japanese person has played it at least 1 time. Origami is easy to make, and everybody can enjoy it. “Origami can be made by anyone, anywhere at anytime.” These words are given by Michael Shall (1995) who is an American origami promoter.

History of Origami

Unfortunately, it’s not clear when origami in Japan first originated. However, we have been using origami to wrap items and to fold letters since the 8th century.

Sometimes, origami was once made for the purpose of avoiding illnesses and misfortunes among us.

During the Meiji period (1868-1912), origami was used as a teaching tool in the kindergarten and the elementary school levels.

There are now origami associations in 20 different countries throughout the world. Each association is carrying out it own independent activities. Thanks to them, origami is familiar to people all over the world.

What kind of paper do we have?

We have a lot of kinds of paper, not only plain paper but also patterned paper. There are such beautiful patterns!

How to make

I’m not sure, but origami culture has more than 10,000 products.
First, I’m going to show you about how to make “A Bird”.



I’m going to tell you about one more origami. This is “A Yukata.” It is Japanese traditional wear. We usually wear it in summer at a festival.