Origami, the art of paper folding, is a beautiful and engaging craft that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. One of the most important things to consider when starting origami is the size of the paper you use. The right size will make your project easier to fold and give you the best results.
In this article, we’ll discuss the different sizes of origami paper available, how to choose the right size for your project, and how to cut your own paper to the correct size. We’ll also provide a table of common origami paper sizes and their uses.
Now that you know a little bit about the different sizes of origami paper available, you can start choosing the right one for your project. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
papel origami medidas
Essential information about origami paper sizes:
- Square sizes: Common options include 15cm, 20cm, 25cm.
- Rectangular sizes: Often used for modular origami, e.g. 10cm x 15cm.
- Traditional sizes: Follow ancient Japanese measurements, e.g. kami 6-bun.
- Grid paper: Helpful for precise folding, often has 1cm or 2.5cm grids.
- Double-sided colors: Create different effects by folding both sides.
- Specialty papers: Unique textures, colors, or patterns for artistic projects.
Choosing the right paper size and type can greatly enhance your origami experience and final result.
Square sizes: Common options include 15cm, 20cm, 25cm.
When it comes to square origami paper, there are a few common sizes that are widely used:
- 15cm: This is a good size for beginners, as it’s large enough to be easy to fold, but not so large that it’s unwieldy. It’s also a good choice for smaller origami projects, such as boxes or animals.
- 20cm: This is a versatile size that can be used for a wide variety of origami projects, from simple to complex. It’s a good choice for intermediate and advanced folders, as it allows for more intricate folds and designs.
- 25cm: This is a large size that is often used for modular origami, where multiple pieces of paper are folded together to create a larger structure. It can also be used for very large origami projects, such as dragons or flowers.
Ultimately, the best size for your origami project will depend on the specific model you are folding and your own personal preferences. However, these three sizes are a good starting point for most folders.
In addition to the standard square sizes listed above, there are also a number of other square sizes that are sometimes used for origami, such as 7.5cm, 30cm, and 45cm. These sizes are less common, but they can be useful for certain projects.
Rectangular sizes: Often used for modular origami, e.g. 10cm x 15cm.
Rectangular origami paper is less common than square paper, but it can be very useful for certain projects, especially modular origami.
- Modular origami: Modular origami is a type of origami where multiple pieces of paper are folded together to create a larger structure. Rectangular paper is often used for modular origami because it allows for more flexibility in the design and construction of the model. For example, the popular Sonobe unit, which is used to make many different modular origami models, is made from a rectangular piece of paper.
- Boxes and envelopes: Rectangular paper is also often used to make boxes and envelopes, as the rectangular shape lends itself well to these types of projects. For example, a simple origami gift box can be made from a single sheet of rectangular paper.
- Complex folds: Rectangular paper can also be used for complex origami folds that require more space, such as tessellations or pleated folds. The rectangular shape allows for more freedom of movement and manipulation of the paper.
- Unique designs: Rectangular paper can also be used to create unique and interesting origami designs that would not be possible with square paper. For example, a rectangular piece of paper can be folded into a boat or a house, which would be difficult or impossible to do with a square piece of paper.
Overall, rectangular origami paper is a versatile and useful material that can be used to create a wide variety of origami projects. If you’re interested in trying modular origami or creating unique and interesting designs, then rectangular paper is a good option to consider.
Traditional sizes: Follow ancient Japanese measurements, e.g. kami 6-bun.
Traditional origami paper sizes are based on ancient Japanese measurements. These sizes are still used today by some origami folders, especially those who are interested in traditional Japanese origami models.
- Kami 6-bun: This is the most common traditional origami paper size. It is approximately 24cm x 25cm (9.5in x 9.8in). Kami 6-bun is used for a wide variety of origami models, from simple to complex.
- Kami 3-bun: This size is half of kami 6-bun, and it measures approximately 12cm x 12.5cm (4.7in x 4.9in). Kami 3-bun is often used for smaller origami models, such as animals or flowers.
- Kami 1.5-bun: This size is half of kami 3-bun, and it measures approximately 6cm x 6.25cm (2.4in x 2.5in). Kami 1.5-bun is often used for very small origami models, such as insects or birds.
- Other traditional sizes: There are also a number of other traditional origami paper sizes, such as kami 4-bun, kami 8-bun, and kami 12-bun. These sizes are less common, but they can be useful for certain projects.
Traditional origami paper sizes can be a bit confusing at first, but they are actually quite simple. Once you understand the basic sizing system, you can easily find the right size paper for your origami project.
Grid paper: Helpful for precise folding, often has 1cm or 2.5cm grids.
Grid paper is a type of paper that has a grid of evenly spaced lines printed on it. This grid can be very helpful for origami, as it allows you to fold your paper more precisely.
Grid paper is available in a variety of sizes and grid spacings. For origami, the most common grid spacings are 1cm and 2.5cm. 1cm grid paper is good for most origami projects, while 2.5cm grid paper is better for larger projects or projects that require more precision.
To use grid paper for origami, simply print out the grid paper template that you want to use and cut it to the desired size. Then, fold your paper along the grid lines. The grid lines will help you to make neat and accurate folds, which will result in a better looking origami model.
Grid paper is especially helpful for complex origami models that require precise folding. For example, grid paper can be used to fold intricate tessellations or pleated folds. Grid paper can also be helpful for beginners, as it can help them to learn how to fold accurately.
Overall, grid paper is a valuable tool for origami folders of all levels. It can help you to fold more precisely, which will result in better looking origami models.
Double-sided colors: Create different effects by folding both sides.
Double-sided origami paper has different colors on each side. This can be used to create interesting and unique effects in your origami models.
There are two main ways to use double-sided origami paper:
- Single-color folding: In this method, you fold the paper so that only one color is visible. This can be used to create models with a solid color or with different colored sections.
- Double-color folding: In this method, you fold the paper so that both colors are visible. This can be used to create models with stripes, checkerboards, or other patterns.
Double-sided origami paper can also be used to create models with hidden colors. For example, you could fold a model so that the inside is a different color than the outside. This can create a surprise when the model is opened.
Double-sided origami paper is a great way to add an extra dimension to your origami models. It can be used to create models that are more visually interesting and appealing.
Here are some tips for using double-sided origami paper:
- Choose colors that complement each other well.
- Experiment with different folding techniques to see how the colors interact.
- Be creative and have fun!
Specialty papers: Unique textures, colors, or patterns for artistic projects.
Specialty origami papers are papers that have unique textures, colors, or patterns. These papers can be used to create origami models that are truly unique and eye-catching.
- Metallic papers: Metallic papers have a shiny, metallic finish. They can be used to create origami models that look like they are made of metal. Metallic papers are available in a variety of colors, including gold, silver, copper, and rose gold.
- Textured papers: Textured papers have a raised or embossed texture. This can add an interesting tactile element to your origami models. Textured papers are available in a variety of textures, including linen, canvas, and leather.
- Patterned papers: Patterned papers have a printed pattern on them. This can be anything from a simple polka dot pattern to a complex paisley pattern. Patterned papers can be used to create origami models that are colorful and visually appealing.
- Transparent papers: Transparent papers are papers that allow light to pass through them. This can be used to create origami models that are delicate and ethereal. Transparent papers are available in a variety of colors, including clear, frosted, and tinted.
Specialty origami papers can be used to create origami models for a variety of occasions. For example, metallic papers can be used to create origami ornaments for Christmas, textured papers can be used to create origami cards for birthdays, and patterned papers can be used to create origami gift boxes for special occasions.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about cool origami:
Question 1: What is cool origami?
Answer 1: Cool origami is a type of origami that is visually appealing, unique, or challenging to fold. It can be made from any type of paper, but often uses specialty papers such as metallic, textured, or patterned papers.
Question 2: What are some popular cool origami models?
Answer 2: Some popular cool origami models include the flapping bird, the jumping frog, the twisty puzzle cube, the modular origami rose, and the 3D origami dragon.
Question 3: How can I learn to fold cool origami models?
Answer 3: There are many resources available to help you learn how to fold cool origami models. You can find books, websites, and videos that provide step-by-step instructions for folding different models.
Question 4: What is the best type of paper for cool origami?
Answer 4: The best type of paper for cool origami depends on the model you are folding. For most models, a thin, strong paper such as origami paper or vellum is a good choice. However, for models that require more structure, such as modular origami models, a thicker paper such as cardstock may be a better choice.
Question 5: Can I use regular printer paper for cool origami?
Answer 5: You can use regular printer paper for cool origami, but it is not ideal. Printer paper is often too thick and stiff, which can make it difficult to fold. It is also more likely to tear than origami paper or vellum.
Question 6: Where can I find cool origami models to fold?
Answer 6: You can find cool origami models to fold in a variety of places. Some popular resources include origami books, websites, and YouTube videos. You can also find cool origami models by searching online.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
Cool origami is a fun and challenging way to express your creativity. With a little practice, you can learn to fold all sorts of amazing origami models. So what are you waiting for? Start folding today!
Now that you know a little bit more about cool origami, here are a few tips to help you get started:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you fold cool origami models like a pro:
Tip 1: Start with simple models.
When you’re first starting out, it’s best to start with simple origami models. This will help you to learn the basic folding techniques and build your confidence. Once you’ve mastered a few simple models, you can move on to more complex models.
Tip 2: Use good quality paper.
The type of paper you use can make a big difference in the outcome of your origami model. For cool origami models, it’s best to use a thin, strong paper such as origami paper or vellum. These papers are easy to fold and hold creases well.
Tip 3: Be patient and persistent.
Folding cool origami models can be challenging, but it’s important to be patient and persistent. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right the first time. Keep practicing and you’ll eventually be able to fold even the most complex models.
Tip 4: Use your creativity.
Origami is a great way to express your creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, patterns, and folding techniques. You might be surprised at what you can create.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
With a little practice and patience, you’ll be able to fold all sorts of amazing cool origami models. So what are you waiting for? Start folding today!
Now that you know how to fold cool origami models, it’s time to put your skills to the test. Here are a few ideas for cool origami projects that you can try:
Conclusion
Cool origami is a fun and challenging way to express your creativity. With a little practice, you can learn to fold all sorts of amazing origami models that are visually appealing, unique, or challenging to fold. Cool origami models can be made from any type of paper, but often use specialty papers such as metallic, textured, or patterned papers.
Folding cool origami models is a great way to relax and de-stress. It can also help to improve your hand-eye coordination and spatial reasoning skills. And best of all, it’s a lot of fun! So if you’re looking for a new and exciting hobby, give cool origami a try. You won’t be disappointed.
So what are you waiting for? Start folding today!

