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The art of origami has a long history. And while it’s mainly associated with Japanese culture, the ancient paper craft also has roots in China and Europe. Traditional origami involves folding single sheets of paper into elaborate sculptures without cutting and sticking. While the Chinese crafted boats and boxes, the Japanese often sculpted nature-inspired motifs such as flowers and birds. In Europe, paper-folding evolved from napkin-folding, but eventually moved beyond fancy dinner parties and into schools, where children would create paper art during playtime.
Today, origami continues to be a popular pastime among children and adults alike—particularly for those who want to learn a new craft without investing too much in materials. And with so many great DIY kits available, it’s super easy to create impressive paper sculptures. In this list, we’ve included some of the best paper art projects that come with everything you need, including inspiration, origami paper, and step-by-step instructions. From pretty paper flowers to an elaborate octopus lampshade, you’ll master those complex folds in no time!
Want to learn the ancient art of origami? Check out our list of some of the best DIY kits.
Origami Flowers Kit
Michael G. LaFosse | $15.76
Paper Octopus Lampshade
VasiliLights | $81.36
DIY Kimono Girl Kit
bila | $15.29
“Birds” Papercraft 3D Wall Sculpture
SmagaPaperwood | $38.29
Traditional Japanese Designs
Tuttle Publishing | $6.26
Paper Fish Lampshade
VasiliLights | $70.59
DIY Baby Mobile Kit
MUKUNOKO | $26.37+
Paper Fox Mask
Wintercroft | $17.37
“The Globe Theatre” Architecture Paper Model Kit
PaperLandmarkst | 21.54
Flying Dragons Paper Airplane Kit
Sam Ita and Paul Frasco | $11.92
Paper Ikebana
Benjamin John Coleman | $14.67
Star Wars Origami
Chris Alexander | $12.89
“Hanging Kitten” DIY Paper Art Wall Mount
EcogamiShop | $11.41
Lucky Star Kit
LoveDnAshop | $12.70
Paper Bonsai Kit
Benjamin John Coleman | $14.77
Hokusai Origami Paper
Tuttle Publishing | $6.95
DIY 3D Pen Holder
TheOrigamiFactory | $6.68
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