Choosing Paper for Origami

Origami is the oriental art of paper folding. It is very popular in many countries. People can make many different shapes with various paper sizes. You can make a spaceship, an airplane, a table, etc. The Japanese like folding paper cranes.

Origami doesn't discriminate. It's an activity or hobby that can be practiced by anybody. You can also choose to do with with just about any kind of foldable material, cardboard, construction board, etc. Different materials have different properties. Some are better for origami than others. Below us a list of several types of materials that can be used for origami.

Origami paper. The material meant specifically for origami is absolutely divine for simple models. It comes in a huge array of colors, patterns, and sizes. Almost all the sizes are perfectly square. Though, perhaps what is more important to those who are just beginning to try origami is that it's cheap.

Duo paper. Unlike others, this little darling has a different color or pattern on each side.

Harmony paper. This is a type of origami material that has a unique pattern. They are made of colors that fade into each other. Few use it because it is distracting.

Washi. This paper, which originated from Japan, is thicker than normal and some experience is necessary in order to fold it properly. However, it can produce masterworks that can last for years. "Washi" means handmade in Japanese.

Photocopy paper. Its greatest asset is that it is a cheap and ubiquitous. It's not a very good material for origami, but its attributes let practice to your hearts content.

Kraft paper. This is usually colored brown and it is packed in huge rolls. It's marvelous for folding. You'll find that it is available in many different colors.

Tracing paper. This thick material makes neat creases difficult to make, but it is ideal for bowls and vases.

Foil paper. White on one side, colored foil on the other. It's a very nice material but it's very hard to reverse the direction of a crease.

Canson. This is a high quality art paper. It comes in many different colors. It's perfect for use in large models.

Wyndstone paper. Despite the name, this did not come from dead elephants. Rather, it has a marbled effect. It is also called Elephant hide.

Money. Paper currency is really great for folding. It is meant to be tough and it shows. Find a cheap currency in your bank and trade your money in for low-denominated bills of that country. Money also comes in many different designs and colors.

Jonathan Russell is an artist and blogger that has been writing articles on many different topics for the last 2 years. You can find him contributing articles at Beginning Quilting Now a website dedicated to helping those who are beginning quilting.

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