Origami is an art that originated in China in 105 A.D., or perhaps even earlier. This craft requires the artist to fold paper into creative designs, including animals, shapes, and flowers, among other things. While origami may seem like a difficult craft to master, many find it relatively simple, as well as relaxing and enjoyable. For the creative individual, this pastime is not only fun, but a great way to produce impressive decorations and gifts.

How to Make Origami in Seven Steps:

1. Choose your Paper. There are many different types of paper that origami artists can use. However, beginners may want to start out with pre-cut paper that was specifically made for origami, as this will ensure that they have the perfect size. Artists can also choose the thickness and color of their paper. A beginning origami maker should choose thin paper in an array of their favorite colors. Thinner paper is more forgiving to errors, as it will not crease as deeply, and folds much easier than thicker paper. Selecting colorful paper will also add an additional flair to origami creations, instead of the monotony of black and white.

2. Choose an instructional book or tutorial. It is important to choose an instruction book, video, or tutorial that is easy to understand and offers helpful illustrations. Learning how to make origami by simply reading about it is usually not enough. It is much easier to learn by visual instruction, than by reading about it alone. Additionally, it is not always necessary to purchase a book. There are a wealth of instructional videos and illustrations that are available for free on the internet.

3. Practice and master the basics. Beginners should be sure to start off by creating very basic designs. Origami is an art that must be mastered in increments or it will seem overwhelming. Choose very simple designs, like the origami box, origami parrot, origami plane, and the origami ninja star, which are all 11 folds or under. These designs will help beginners get a feel for the right ways to fold the paper and help them master the basics. It is important for beginners to practice these simple designs a few times, until they feel very comfortable with moving on to more difficult designs.

4. Move to advanced designs. Once an artist is ready, it is then time to choose a few more difficult designs. Select designs, like the crane, frog, lily, and the lotus, which are all under 18 folds. Keep in mind that it is alright to struggle with some designs at first. Continuing to practice and work through any difficulties is the only way to master the art of origami. With some practice, most origami artists will find themselves improving and mastering the craft very quickly.

5. Practice with fabrics. Once a origami maker becomes very comfortable with a variety of designs, they may want to practice their skills on fabric. Learning to fold a fabric napkin into an animal or flower shape is a great way to sharpen one's skills. It is also a great way to show off one's abilities to family and friends, while creating beautiful place settings for dinner parties and other occasions.

6. Share the hobby with friends and family. Origami is a fun and creative hobby that most people will enjoy. Sharing the skill with family and friends is a great way to create a mutual hobby. Additionally, many origami artists will find that teaching others the art of origami will work to strengthen their own skills.

7. Create unique designs. Once a beginner has moved on to intermediate, or even advanced designs, they should take the time to create their own designs. Artists can do this by altering an already made design or creating their very own. This allows artists to flex their creative muscles, while creating designs that meet their specific tastes.