1. The art and History of Origami

2. History
• Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding.
• “Ori” is the Japanese word for folding and
“kami” means paper
• Origami actually began in China around the end
of the first century or start of the second
century
• The earliest reference that clearly supports
paper folding in Japan is the short poem
written in 1680 by Ihara Saikaku. The poem
describes a dream that involves paper
butterflies.

3. History
In the beginning, there was very little paper
available and the art of origami was only
practiced by the wealthy. Origami was
practiced at weddings to represent the bride
and groom and it was also practiced by the
Samurai as a form of gift exchange called
Noshi.

4. • As paper methods progress, paper became
less expensive. The art of origami became
available for everyone.
• The two classic tools needed for origami
are:
– Copy paper
– Scissors

5. • For centuries there where no written
directions for origami art. Directions for
folding models where taught to each
generation and handed down to the next.
• This form of art became part of the cultural
heritage of the Japanese.
• The first book to be published with origami
instructions was “How to Fold 1000 Cranes”
in 1797.

6. Origami Today
• Akira Yoshizawa is considered is
considered one of the originators of
modern origami, he developed a system
of folding patterns employing a set of
symbols, arrows and diagrams.

7. Origami Today
• Origami is characterized by open-access
folding patterns and sequences.
• Modern origami has advanced and now
utilizing tools for techniques is seen an
innovative.
For example using highlighters to draw
specific patterns on office paper or using glue
to make models clean and crisp.

8. • Some artists like to try different materials
and use shredders to make uniform cuts
• It’s all about getting as creative as you can
with the very simple office paper

10. • Brought to you by www.Shoplet.com !we
specialize in office supplies but we love to
support your creative side!