How To Buy Origami Paper: A Guide For Beginners

Origami, the ancient art of paper folding, is a fun and rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. If you’re new to origami, one of the first things you’ll need to do is buy origami paper. But with so many different types of origami paper available, it can be difficult to know where to start.

This guide will walk you through the basics of buying origami paper, including the different types of paper available, the qualities to look for, and where to buy it. By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to confidently choose the right origami paper for your next project.

Before we dive into the specifics of buying origami paper, let’s first take a look at the different types of origami paper available.

How to Buy Origami Paper

When buying origami paper, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

Consider the paper’s weight.
Choose the right size.
Look for quality paper.
Consider the color.
Think about the project.
Buy in bulk.
Store paper properly.
Where to buy origami paper
Enjoy the process!

By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the right origami paper for your next project and enjoy the art of origami for years to come.

Consider the paper’s weight.

The weight of origami paper is measured in grams per square meter (gsm). The higher the gsm, the thicker the paper. For most origami projects, a paper weight of 80-100 gsm is a good starting point. This weight is thick enough to hold a crease well, but it is also thin enough to be folded easily.

If you are new to origami, it is best to choose a paper that is on the lighter side. This will make it easier to learn the basic folds and techniques. As you become more experienced, you can experiment with heavier papers.

Heavier papers (120-150 gsm) are often used for more complex origami models, such as those with many layers or intricate folds. These papers are also good for making origami sculptures and boxes.

Very heavy papers (180 gsm and above) are best used for very specific projects, such as making origami armor or helmets. These papers are very thick and difficult to fold, but they can create very strong and durable origami models.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right weight of origami paper for your project is to experiment. Try different weights and see what works best for you.

Choose the right size.

The size of origami paper you need will depend on the project you are making. For most projects, a square piece of paper is best.

Small (15-20 cm)
Good for small models, such as animals, flowers, and simple geometric shapes.
Medium (25-35 cm)
Good for most origami projects, such as boxes, modular origami, and intermediate-level models.
Large (40-60 cm)
Good for large models, such as dragons, dinosaurs, and complex geometric shapes.
Extra large (60 cm and above)
Good for very large models, such as origami dresses, giant animals, and large sculptures.

If you are unsure what size of paper you need, it is always better to err on the side of caution and choose a larger size. You can always cut the paper down to size, but you can’t make it bigger.

Look for quality paper.

The quality of origami paper is just as important as the weight and size. Good quality paper will be strong and durable, and it will hold a crease well. It should also be free of tears, wrinkles, and other imperfections.

There are a few things you can look for to identify high-quality origami paper:

Strong fibers. High-quality origami paper is made from strong fibers, such as mulberry or abaca. These fibers give the paper its strength and durability.
Long fibers. Long fibers make the paper more resistant to tearing and wrinkling. Look for papers that are made from long-fibered pulp.
Good sizing. Sizing is a coating that is applied to the paper to help it hold a crease. Good quality origami paper will have a均匀 coating of sizing.
Neutral pH. Acidic paper can deteriorate over time. Look for papers that are pH neutral or slightly alkaline.

If you are buying origami paper online, it is important to read the reviews before you make a purchase. This can give you a good idea of the quality of the paper before you buy it.

If you are unsure what color to choose, you can always start with a white or cream-colored paper. These colors are versatile and can be used for a variety of projects.

Think about the project.

The type of origami project you are making will also influence the type of paper you need.

Simple projects: For simple projects, such as animals, flowers, and geometric shapes, you can use a variety of papers. However, it is best to avoid papers that are too thick or too thin.
Complex projects: For complex projects, such as modular origami and large sculptures, you will need to use a paper that is strong and durable. A heavier weight paper (120 gsm or higher) is a good choice for these projects.
Wet-folding projects: If you are planning to do any wet-folding, you will need to use a paper that is specifically designed for this purpose. Wet-folding papers are stronger and more resistant to tearing when wet.

If you are unsure what type of paper to use for a particular project, you can always consult a book or website that provides instructions for that project.

Here are some additional things to consider when choosing origami paper for a specific project:

The size of the model: The size of the origami model will determine the size of the paper you need.
The complexity of the model: The more complex the model, the stronger the paper needs to be.
The desired look of the model: Some papers have a glossy finish, while others have a matte finish. Choose a paper that will give you the desired look for your model.

Buy in bulk.

If you plan on doing a lot of origami, it is a good idea to buy origami paper in bulk. This can save you money in the long run, and it will also ensure that you always have paper on hand when you need it.

Cost savings: Buying origami paper in bulk is often cheaper than buying it in small quantities.
Convenience: Having a large supply of origami paper on hand means that you can always start a new project without having to worry about running out of paper.
Variety: If you buy origami paper in bulk, you can often get a variety of colors and weights of paper. This gives you more options for your origami projects.

When buying origami paper in bulk, it is important to store it properly. Origami paper should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can also store origami paper in airtight containers to protect it from moisture and dust.

Store paper properly.

Once you have purchased origami paper, it is important to store it properly to ensure that it remains in good condition.

Store in a cool, dry place. Origami paper should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and humidity can cause the paper to warp and deteriorate.
Store flat. Origami paper should be stored flat to prevent it from curling or wrinkling. You can store origami paper in a portfolio, a plastic storage container, or a drawer.
Avoid contact with moisture. Origami paper should not be stored in areas where it may come into contact with moisture, such as a bathroom or kitchen. Moisture can cause the paper to warp and deteriorate.
Use airtight containers. If you are storing origami paper for a long period of time, you can store it in airtight containers to protect it from dust and dirt.

By following these tips, you can store your origami paper properly and ensure that it remains in good condition for years to come.

Where to buy origami paper

Origami paper can be purchased at a variety of places, including:

Craft stores: Craft stores, such as Michael’s and Joann Fabrics, sell a variety of origami paper, including solid colors, patterned papers, and specialty papers.
Online retailers: Online retailers, such as Amazon and Etsy, sell a wide variety of origami paper, including papers from all over the world.
Origami specialty stores: If there is an origami specialty store in your area, you can find a wide selection of origami paper, as well as other origami supplies.
Japanese grocery stores: Japanese grocery stores often sell origami paper, especially if they have a section dedicated to Japanese crafts and supplies.

When choosing a place to buy origami paper, it is important to consider the following factors:

Selection: Make sure that the store or website has a good selection of origami paper in a variety of colors, weights, and sizes.
Price: Compare prices from different stores and websites to find the best deal.
Shipping costs: If you are buying origami paper online, factor in the cost of shipping when comparing prices.
Customer reviews: If you are buying origami paper online, read customer reviews to get an idea of the quality of the paper and the service from the seller.

Once you have considered these factors, you can choose the best place to buy origami paper for your needs.

Enjoy the process!

Origami is a relaxing and enjoyable hobby. Once you have purchased your origami paper, take some time to enjoy the process of folding and creating. Don’t worry about making mistakes. The most important thing is to have fun and be creative.

Start with simple projects. If you are new to origami, start with simple projects, such as animals, flowers, and geometric shapes. This will help you to learn the basic folds and techniques.
Challenge yourself with more complex projects. Once you have mastered the basics, you can start to challenge yourself with more complex projects. There are many books and websites that provide instructions for complex origami models.
Experiment with different types of paper. There are many different types of origami paper available, each with its own unique properties. Experiment with different types of paper to see which ones you like best.
Share your creations with others. Once you have created an origami model, share it with your friends and family. You can also share your creations online on origami forums and websites.

Origami is a great way to relax, be creative, and challenge yourself. Enjoy the process and have fun!

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about origami:

Question 1: What is origami?

Answer: Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding. Origami is often used to create beautiful and intricate sculptures, but it can also be used to make functional objects, such as boxes and envelopes.

Question 2: What kind of paper is best for origami?

Answer: The best type of paper for origami is thin and strong. Traditional origami paper is made from mulberry fibers, but you can also use other types of paper, such as printer paper, vellum, and tissue paper.

Question 3: What are the basic folds in origami?

Answer: The basic folds in origami are the mountain fold, the valley fold, the square fold, and the unfold. These folds can be combined to create more complex folds and shapes.

Question 4: How do I learn origami?

Answer: There are many ways to learn origami. You can find books, websites, and videos that provide instructions for folding different origami models. You can also take origami classes at local community centers or craft stores.

Question 5: What are some popular origami models?

Answer: Some popular origami models include the crane, the dragon, the rose, and the box. There are also many other origami models to choose from, ranging from simple to complex.

Question 6: What are the benefits of origami?

Answer: Origami is a fun and relaxing hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Origami can also help to improve hand-eye coordination, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving skills.

Closing Paragraph for FAQ:

Origami is a beautiful and rewarding art form that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With a little practice, you can learn to fold a variety of origami models, from simple to complex. So what are you waiting for? Start folding today!

Now that you know more about origami, here are a few tips to help you get started:

Tips

Here are a few tips to help you get started with origami:

Tip 1: Start with simple projects.

If you are new to origami, start with simple projects, such as animals, flowers, and geometric shapes. This will help you to learn the basic folds and techniques.

Tip 2: Use good quality paper.

The type of paper you use can make a big difference in the outcome of your origami project. Choose thin and strong paper that is easy to fold. Traditional origami paper is made from mulberry fibers, but you can also use other types of paper, such as printer paper, vellum, and tissue paper.

Tip 3: Be patient.

Origami can be challenging, but it is also very rewarding. Don’t get discouraged if you make a mistake. Just keep practicing and you will eventually be able to fold more complex models.

Tip 4: Have fun!

Origami is a fun and relaxing hobby. Enjoy the process of folding and creating. Don’t worry about making mistakes. The most important thing is to have fun and be creative.

Closing Paragraph for Tips:

With a little practice, you can learn to fold a variety of origami models, from simple to complex. So what are you waiting for? Start folding today!

Now that you know the basics of origami and have some tips to get you started, you are ready to start your origami journey.

Conclusion

Summary of Main Points:

Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding.
Origami can be used to create beautiful and intricate sculptures, as well as functional objects.
The best type of paper for origami is thin and strong.
The basic folds in origami are the mountain fold, the valley fold, the square fold, and the unfold.
Origami can be learned through books, websites, videos, and classes.
There are many different origami models to choose from, ranging from simple to complex.
Origami is a fun and relaxing hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Closing Message:

Origami is a great way to relax, be creative, and challenge yourself. It is also a fun and rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. So what are you waiting for? Start folding today!