How to create origami step by step: a video guide

Origami is the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative shapes and figures. The word origami comes from the Japanese words origi, which means to fold, and kami, which means paper.

It is believed that origami originated in Japan in the XVII century, although it may have been practiced before. Traditional origami models are created from a single square piece of paper, without cutting or gluing.

There are many different types of origami models, ranging from simple shapes to complex designs that require sophisticated folding techniques. Popular origami models include animals, flowers and geometric shapes.

Origami has become a popular hobby around the world, and there are many books, websites and instructional videos that teach people how to create origami models. Besides being a fun and creative activity, origami also helps to develop skills such as patience, concentration and spatial thinking.

Here's a step-by-step guide to origami

Choose paper: Origami paper is usually square and comes in a variety of colours and patterns. You can also use any square piece of paper, including wrapping paper or printer paper if it is not too thick.

Make a crease: Fold the paper in half diagonally, from one corner to the opposite corner, to make a crease in the centre of the paper. Unfold the paper and repeat the process with the other two corners to make an "X" shaped fold in the paper.

Fold the corners: Fold the top corner of the paper towards the centre along the crease you made in step 2. Repeat this step with the other three corners so that all four corners of the paper are folded to the centre.

Fold in half: Fold the paper in half along the crease you made in step 2, bringing the top edge of the paper to the bottom edge. Press the fold firmly together.

Create a model: You can now start folding the paper into the desired model. Follow the instructions for your particular origami model which will tell you which folds and where to make them.

Finish the model: Once you have folded the paper into the desired shape, make all the folds again so that they are crisp and firm. You may have to tweak the model a little to make it look right.

Show off your creation: When you are happy with your origami model, you can proudly display it for all to see! Make a few more models to make a collection or give them as gifts to friends and family.