Choosing the Perfect Paper for Your Origami Journey
Choosing the Perfect Paper for Your Origami Journey
Are you just starting your origami journey, or are you looking for the best paper to enhance your folding skills? In this article, we will explore the ideal origami papers and sizes for beginners and advanced learners alike. We will discuss the advantages of different paper types and sizes, making it easier for you to choose the perfect paper that fits your needs.
Understanding Origami Paper
The best origami paper is known as wasprojim, also known as kami. This special paper is designed specifically for the intricate folding techniques required in origami. However, do not let the idea of purchasing dedicated origami paper discourage you. The right size and type of paper can make your beginner projects much more manageable.
Recommended Origami Paper Sizes for Beginners
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the perfect origami paper size. However, the following sizes are particularly suitable for non-modular projects, which are the most common for beginners:
15 x 15 cm (6 x 6 inches) 20 x 20 cm (8 x 8 inches) 25 x 25 cm (10 x 10 inches)These sizes provide a good balance between ease of folding and the ability to create detailed designs. For modular origami—where multiple identical modules are folded and combined—smaller sizes such as:
10 x 10 cm (7.5 x 7.5 cm) 5 x 5 cm (4 x 4 inches x 3 x 3 inches) 2 x 2 cm (2 x 2 inches)are recommended to ensure precision and stability in your projects.
My Personal Experience
When my son began his origami journey, he started with 6-inch square paper, which is a common size for beginners. In my initial recollection, he had some larger paper as well (approximately 205mm square, equivalent to 200mm x 200mm). However, it turned out that my son preferred a 6-inch (150mm) square paper from the beginning. This size provides a good balance between handling and detail work.
Another option many beginners find convenient is using A4 sheets of regular paper. The process is simple: you can easily cut an A4 sheet into a square. For those in the US, letter-sized paper (8.5 x 11 inches) can be similarly handled and cut into 6-inch squares. My son found it easy to use A4 paper for his practice, and it was readily available from waste bins in printer areas.
Transitioning to Specialized Origami Paper
While starter paper sizes can be very useful, eventually, you will want to transition to specialized origami paper. This paper is typically brightly colored and labeled "ORIGAMI." These sheets are often pre-cut to square sizes and are excellent for practicing more complex folds. Origami paper is available on Amazon and other online retailers. It comes in various qualities and thicknesses, allowing you to customize your experience based on your preferences.
Conclusion
Getting started with origami can be as simple as using what you have at hand. Whether you choose A4 or letter-sized paper, or even squares cut from larger sheets, the key is to work with squares. Specialized origami paper is also a valuable resource that can help you achieve better results. As you progress, experiment with different paper types and sizes to find what works best for you. Happy folding!