The Origami Forum

Long time no posting! One of the things I love about origami is the beautiful printed paper you can get. I have this issue that some of the paper I've got over the years I don't want to use because it is too beautiful. I want to make something permanent(ish) with them that displays their wonderful colours and patterns either origami with large planes or something else entirely. Have any of you done something like this?

this is difficult to do. most of the folders here do representational origami, and these patterned papers are not good for them for at least two reasons: 1) they detract from the actual subject, 2) usually these papers are very thick and very springy, so they are not amenable to complex folding and shaping.

the best use for them is really either in modulars or for traditional models, where the pattern can be the primary attraction.

I have some of this paper and haven't folded anything significant from it for the same reasons. Bethnor's suggestions are good, and I really like those shells. Some people fold kimonos or dolls with it. If I remember correctly, these patterns were traditionally modeled from kimonos to begin with. Certain vases, containers, or boxes might also look very nice. The papers are used a lot in non-origami applications like cards, scrap-booking, decoupage, etc...

Hm if you are looking for actual designs on paper, they are hard to find, but Washi comes in diffent patterns..

This place has some washi with several patterns http://www.mulberrypaperandmore.com/c-2 ... washi.aspx It's all small in GSM so it's good for more complex folds..

Hope I helped!

excellent suggestion, leafpiece, i'd forgotten. maekawa has some excellent two piece hina dolls that this paper works very well for.

Bethnor those are stunning! Is there a book I could get the pattern from or is it one of your own?

Most of the paper like this that I have is reasonably thin and usually only patterned on one side but like you say doesn't really work for representational origami, which is what I most do as well.

I quite like the idea of boxes, that would really show of the lovely patterns!

I also found this, not origami I know but seemed like a sweet idea. http://www.paperkawaii.com/2011/07/25/m ... -tutorial/

unfortunately, those are from the now out of print fuse origami spiral 1.

however, she has recently released a new spiral book, which is available from OUSA or nicolas terry's origami shop. it is somewhat pricey, however, at ~ $100 USD.

I would personally recommend "Advanced Origami" from Origamido Studios.
Specifically, the butterfly. It works GREAT with those thick spongee ornamental Washi papers. Plus, if you stick a bobby pin to the underside and treat it with a bit of lacker or MC, it makes for a neat hair pin. Good gift idea.

Http://www.origamido.com/products/advanced_origami.php

Bethnor, that is pricey! I did actually order her first box book used of ebay as well.

Timoris, I've been eyeing up that book for a while and you've given me one more reason to get it