Origami flowers, as you may know, are not alive like others are. These are flowers that are crafted from paper for various reasons. The word “origami” is a Japanese word. It is the art of paper folding.
Children in Japan start learning this skill almost as soon as they’re able to understand the concept of folding. In the west, it is taught when children enter the school system. It’s usually a fun exercise to that end, but it is one that they can use throughout life.
Research has spoken to the benefits of origami for children. Not only does it add a layer of fun, but it also helps to develop vital skills.
This articles the following beautiful origami flowers:
These flowers can be crafted for various reasons, such as gifts, home décor, and even wedding decorations.
Origami Kusudama Flower
The word “kusudama” is a Japanese word that literally translates to “medicine ball.” The name is fitting because of the way that the flower is comprised. Making the flower requires six identically folded units. These units can then be glued together, which results in a large ball.
Unlike other origami flowers that can be created with a single sheet of paper, this flower requires six. One sheet of square paper is allocated to each petal. You can use calendar paper, scrapbook paper, or origami paper to make the flowers.
Of course, larger paper means larger petals. The larger the petals are, the more dramatic the flower looks. You can use an assortment of patterns and colors to achieve a unique aesthetic. Feel free to use a single color too, if you want to go for a look of realism. You may also use a button or rhinestone at the center.
Origami Lily
Of all the origami options, the lily is known for being one of the most traditional. It is very fitting, considering how popular lilies are compared to most other flowers. One of the things that makes this flower alluring is its difficulty level.
There isn’t much of one, which introduces a very inclusive accessibility factor. Beginners can get the hang of this one with little training, and it’s very versatile and customizable. For example, you may elect to use them individually when they’re finished. If you don’t, then you can put them with other such flowers to create a beautiful arrangement.
This traditional flower only takes one sheet of paper to make, and it can be done in five minutes. Curling the edges when it’s done gives the origami lily a more authentic look.
Consider doing a bit of practice with the origami masu box before moving to the lily.
Origami Lotus Flower
The real lotus flower is a treasured water lily that is native to parts of Asia. The origami version is also called the origami water lily. This is an obvious reference to the real lotus. Note that this one has an intermediate difficulty.
Therefore, if you’re a beginner, don’t be surprised if you have a big struggle getting this one to come out the way you want. This is more so because this design is done with origami paper that is very thin. In the last few steps of putting this together, pulling the paper is necessary. Tearing it during that step is entirely possible if it is pulled too hard or incorrectly.
The origami lotus is very versatile. Some people even give the flower’s look a boost with battery operated lights. The lights are placed in the center, which gives off a pattern that is great for wedding decorations.
Kawasaki Rose
This origami flower gets its design from the world of art. Toshikazu Kawasaki is the Japanese artist that is credited with the intricate design for this flower. He came up with an incredible twisting maneuver that creates a beautiful result.
In its completed state, the Kawasaki rose appears to have petals that curl out from the center. Its beauty is something that you truly need to see to believe. On that note, the flower is not a simple one to make. In fact, this one is best left to those who can perform paper folds at the advanced level.
Joseph Wu, a Canadian artist, provides instruction on how to achieve the fold. He does so by providing a downloadable PDF diagram that you can use to master it. You can find this on his website. Of course, the fact that such a diagram even exists should indicate the difficulty level.
Origami Rose
Now it is time to bring things back to the simpler side of the spectrum with the basic Origami rose. It is true that many of the rose designs are complex. The Kawasaki rose that was discussed above, for example, has 29 steps. Those steps require inside and outside reverse folds too.
Luckily, there is the simple Origami rose design, which is so accessible that even children can do it. Be that as it may, beginners and children are better off with larger squares of paper. Only a single square of paper is needed for this project, which also makes it likable.
Like the lily above, you can make your rose seem more authentic by folding the petals. Note, however, that if the crease is too pronounced, that is not the case. To avoid this, try not to press too hard on the paper as you complete the fold.
Summary
Origami flowers are made by many people, including children. The art form has its origins in Japan, where children learn it as early as is possible.
These flowers can be used for many different occasions. Not only are they a great teaching tool, but they also make excellent ceremonial decorations.
Some of the most beautiful folds are the origami kusudama flower, the origami lily, the origami lotus flower, the Kawasaki rose, and the origami rose. While some of these, such as the origami rose are simple folds, others such as the Kawasaki rose are not.
Just try to find a fold that matches your skill level.