Customer Reviews (1)

models from different folders
super simple models, as in any other origami book, to expensive for the content. ... Read more

Product Description
Paper artist Eric Gjerde demonstrates 25 of his favorite tessellations and turns them into folding projects for newcomers as well as experienced origamists. With step-by-step instructions, illustrated crease patterns, and how-to photos, you'll learn to create these wonderful designs yourself. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Amazing!
Amazing book that we plan to use to demonstrate the math and art connections in our school.

A must have for your library
Eric Gjerde has been impressing the origami world for years with his amazing tessellations. This is a wonderful book. It covers the whole range of designs, from ones you could pick up in minutes to excitingly-complex ones. For the beginner, the instructions are clear and the photos are gorgeous. If you're an experienced folder, there are designs that will keep you busy for hours watching the design evolve. As an added bonus, it's an excellent resource when your friends ask you to teach them how you folded it.

Excellent book
Wonderful book if you are interested in origami tessellations. The book's layout is excellent with many ideas to get you started but not so many so that you feel overwhelmed.
Just watch out if you are expecting such origami tessellations to be similar to conventional origami - they actually aren't, but they are not very difficult to learn, and they are fascinating, especially if you are the type that likes modular origami and are interested in the geometry and patterns.

Utterly invaluable -- Tessellations 101
This book is a great primer on the principles of the most gorgeously abstract discipline in origami -- tessellations, repeated patterns in paperfolding that result in a flat planar surface.The pictures are wonderful and illustrate many of the basic ideas, and the directions are clear and will give anyone the grounding they need to branch off on their own and design new tessellations based on the building blocks this volume teaches.The instructions are also clear, and Gjerde is careful to warn the newbie about any pitfalls particular to a diagram.

I can recommend this book to anyone -- but just make sure to purchase some mulberry paper before you open the book, because your fingers will start to itch the minute you finish it!

FREE TIME IS CHANGING
Para todos aquellos que imaginamos por un momento que teniamos tiempo libre, Eric Gjerde acabo con ese instante. Este maravilloso libre es absolutamente enviciante... Piensen en esto... lo cargo en el morral (y no le puedo sacar) y me la paso asi sea doblando reticulas y reticulas pq qusiera llenar mis paredes de Tessellations!!!
Gracias de verdad Eric por develarnos este gran misterio de papel. :) ... Read more

Product Description
Every project in the book can really move! Origami in Action presents 39 actions origami models that are as animated as they are exquisite. Each project is complete with clear step-by-step diagrams, instructions, and a photograph of the finished model. Included are such traditional favorites as the cootie catcher and the waterbomb, as well as some modern novelties--a strumming guitar player and a toothy Tyrannosaurus Rex. Other projects include: --Flapping Butterfly
--Blow-up Bunny
--Barking Wolf
--Talking Dragon
--Wagging-Tail Doggie
--Boardsailor
--Swimming Manatee
--Indian Paddling a Canoe
... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great for the Beginner
What a great book!The author explains how to accpomplish the different types of folds used in the ' Introduction.'
So when you go to make one of the models, you'll understand the directions better, than if you just tried it on your own.
Also, all the origami models in this book perform an action.
It has all skill levels of difficulty.
An awesome book to get to learn from and practice with.Besides, you get to make some neat models.
FYI- Just remember to read the Intro.

ORIGAMI IN ACTION: PAPER TOYS THAT FLY, FLAP, GOBBLE,& EXPLO
I BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR MY ONE NIECE, SHE HAS THE OTHER ONE BY: ROBERT J. LANG. THIS WAS WHAT SHE WANTED FOR EASTER. SO ALL I CAN SAY IS: FROM LISTENING TO HER, SHE HAS ALOT OF FUN WITH THE BOOK SHE HAS, THE PROJECTS ARE EASY, ALL YOU NEED IS PAPER. I THINK IT IS GREAT BECAUSE, A CHILD HAS TO USE THEIR MINDS, & NO BATTERIES, NOTHING TO PLUG IN, ONE OF THE FEW ITEMS OUT THERE, WHERE A CHILD CAN LET THEIR IMAGINATION GO WILD & THEY DO IT THEMSELVES.

Fascinating... but DEFINITELY not for beginners
If you're just starting out in origami, I really suggest averting from this book.No, really.Unless you start off taking origami very seriously and have your steel resolve handy, this book will only serve to discourage.There aren't a lot of easy designs in this volume, and there's plenty of designs towards the end that are obvious expert-level pieces.I'd go get a book that had a sizable section of traditional origami designs first, then I'd go pick a copy of this up.It's terribly fun once you have any idea what you're doing !

A good book, but I hope that this is not Lang's new style
The challenge (and pro) in this book is that you can make the completed model "move" by pull or push the model. And it contains some wonderful models, like the boat rower and the guitarist. However there aretoo many easy models here, and most of them can be found in other origamibooks. It's a good idea to make the model come to live, but I'm afraid somequintessential qualities of origami will be lost. A new and good try, but Ihope this isn't Lang's new style. From the very beginning Mr. Lang's modelsare always highly expected and appreciated and adored by folders around theworld, and always a challenge. So,fold us more super complex models.....

Fun, accessible origami models from a master origamiist!
Robert Lang is one of the most prolific and innovative origami model creators around. Many of Lang's books, however, are composed mainly of more difficult models appropriate for intermediate and advanced folders.But *Origami in Action* offers lots of fun model building for folks atevery skill level. The diagrams and instructions are wonderfully clearand presented on big pages surrounded by lots of calming white space.

I've been teaching origami to 20 third graders (an interesting volunteerexperience!).*Origami in Action* is one of my top suggestions when aparent asks me to recommend an origami book for an eight or nine year old.

But this book is also great fun for grownups -- even origami-addictedgrownups and other advanced folders. The otter lying on its back isabsolutely wonderful!

Thanks Mr. Lang! ... Read more

Product Description
The ideal first book in origami...30 projects that will lead the absolute beginner to mastery of the art of folding.

Have you ever had the urge to create a frog out of a plain sheet of paper? How about a sea serpent, an elephant, an angel fish, or even a chess set? With this fun and easy-to-use primer, you can make such origami animals and projects come magically to life. Renowned paperfolder Robert Neale and his coauthor, Thomas Hull, present thirty original models, perfect for absolute beginners as well as more seasoned paperfolders looking for fresh, fun projects.

Each model is explained in simple terms, with supportive step-by-step instructions accompanied by intuitively clear diagrams that show each stage of the process. Projects begin with the basics and slowly progress in difficulty, ranging from simple folds (Frog with a Big Mouth, Owlet and Family, Scottie Dog); action folds (Talking Bird, Funky Swan, Somersaulting Frog); and modular folds (Sunburst, Three Wise Men, Chess Set); to trickier projects (Elephant Minor, Angel Fish, Bald Eagle). The authors also provide basic tips on how to fold as the masters do and make projects that come out looking the way you want them to.

Whether you're just starting out or you're a confirmed origami enthusiast for life, Origami, Plain and Simple will provide a repertoire of folding feats that's sure to entertain and challenge as it teaches the ins and outs of this captivating art.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Good for one thing.
This really is a begginer's book for origami.There isn't any "frog base" or "kite base" business.All steps are in the book and you need no previous knowledge of origami.

While this is a good bookfor beginners, intermediate and advanced talents can appreciate it for onereason; I used this book to create the complete chess set.It really is animpressive one (for origami, especially)!

That's all I've used this bookfor, and I don't think I'd pay for it unless I was a beginner (and eventhen, I may not).Getting it from the library was an ideal solution forme.

Make this your first origami book!

If you have never done origami before, or if it has been "years" since you last did, this is the book to get!While there are many "beginner's" origami books on the market, most are aimed at children, and most contain the same set of traditional models.Almost a "if you've seen one you've seen them all" thing.

But, as the commercial says:
"This isn't your parent's first origami book"

This book contains a collection of models by Robert Neale that haven't (to my knowledge) been published anywhere else. Which makes this a great book for collectors as well as beginners.Robert's models are simple to fold, but they contain a beauty that is not easy for an origami creator to capture.Thomas Hull's prose is funny and friendly, and makes me feel like he is looking over my shoulder helping me along.

My favorite models from this book are:
"Frog with a Big Mouth" - the first model I teach anyone new to origami - extremely simple, yet it captures the essence a frog marvelously!
"Da Wabbit We-wised" - much like the traditional rabbit, except lots better!
"Magic Ring" - changes from a frisbee with a hollow center into a spikey ring, and back again (and again, and again, and again, and... you get the idea!)

Two Folds Up!
-Doug ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

Something for Everyone!
I enjoyed this book very much and found there to be a good variety of origami decorations. I liked that there were decorations for other festive ocassions and religions. I loved the Santa and made Christmas Cards of him and other items with glitter, cotton and glue. I found most of the projects within my reach to complete and I have only been folding origami for a few months. I purchased three books for Christmas and I felt this was the best holiday origami book so far.

Best holiday classroom projects
As a teacher, I can use every one of these projects in the classroom! In particular, the projects for Kwanzaa are a rare find. GREAT BOOK ... Read more

Product Description

24 simple, easy-to-follow projects for beginners to the art of origami.

The ancient art of origami continues to fascinate young and old alike. More than a method of artistic expression, it provides an opportunity for reflection and relaxation.

Easy Origami takes beginners step-by-step through the process of creating 24 simple yet interesting projects. Children, teens and adults will construct a hamster, a butterfly, an airplane, a house, a garland, a star cluster and more.

The book begins with general tips on getting started and obtaining the best results. Easy-to-follow directions are included for all the basic folds. The projects are then organized by level of capability.

Easy Origami is the perfect introduction to this popular craft. Beginners of all ages will have fun folding and unfolding as they discover a magical world of paper creations.

Customer Reviews (1)

Our family loved this book
Our children (ages 6 and under) are homeschooled, and we checked this book out from the juvenile section of our library for our study on Japan.We loved it so much that we are planning to buy it very soon from Amazon.com (with our next order).I love the way it explains how to make things.There is a very good explanation (with both drawings and pictures) at the beginning of the book showing how to make all the various basic folds you need to know, as well as the meaning of symbols used throughout the book.Then there are pages of things you can make, and they are divided by difficulty level -- very easy, easy or more challenging.Now, my girls are young and might not have the patience to do much origami yet, but it would be a great book if they were just a bit older.They loved the tree, butterfly and airplanes I made them though.I plan to buy this book and add it to our personal home library, so we can use it more often.You can use the "search inside" feature to see examples of the pages in this book.We loved this book and we hope you will enjoy this book also. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Boxes! and More boxes.
Little book packed with fun and easy to do boxes.They are easy instructions and even I did not get lost! lol
Great little book for great little boxes.

Enthusiasts Find
You buy this book for the "box of cards," money basket, and a banded box model.The box of cards model uses playing cards, money basket uses paper money for dollar bill fans, and the banded boxes is a more traditional fold with depth.There are some great photos of finished models, too.

Good beginner boxes
While this book has some nice models, after folding Tomoko Fuse's boxes (both Origami Boxes and Fabulous Origami BoxesFabulous Origami Boxes) it is a bit of a letdown.

The boxes are not as intricate as Fuse's.However, they are easier to fold and could probably be folded by children a lot easier than Fuse's.If you love boxes, as I do, it is still worth buying.If you have not used Fuse's books, I recommend you buy them first.

Origami Boxes
With the help of "Origami Boxes" you'll never have to find another gift box. This is the umpteenth book by Florence Temko who is known for writing clear step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow.Origami Boxes features patterns for 24 different containers that you can make in sizes to fit your needs. When you use beautiful papers the boxes themselves become gifts for storing jewelry and other things. I give it five stars.

good
There models aren't all boxes

You have
The easiest box, A4traditonal
All-purpose box, two squares
Row of boxes, 12 X 4 inches/30cm x 10cm
Desktop basket, square
Classic Japanese box, two squarestraditonal
Banded box, two squares 10 inches/25cm
Nested boxes, eight squares
Box of cards, 18 playing cards
Patchwork box, 8 sheets
Gift bag, gift wrap
Triangle box, 8 inches/ 20 cm
Money basket, money billtraditonal
Color cube, six squares
Star basket, squaretraditonal
Triangle gift box 9x 12/22cm x 30cm
Five happiness bowl, squaretraditonal
Mystery box, square
Hexagon box,four A4
Four thirsty birds 8 inches/20cm
Round bowl 10 inches/25cm
One piece box, 8 x 10 inches/ 20cm x 25 cm

no origami
Plant pot cover, 12 pieces of newsprint 6 x 22 inches/15cm x 55cm
Flower gift wrap, two sheets of tissue paper

no box
Stand-up frame, A4
... Read more

Product Description
Brief history, basic techniques and step-by-step instructions for 24 projects: hummingbird, giraffe, butterfly, kangaroo, more.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Extremely Useful and Great Skill level
This product was very useful with dynamic models that are not seen much. The models are hard, (sometimes a bit confusing), but in a good way. My favorites are the sun and the alligator. I haven't tried may of them yet, but they look very original.

My favorite Origami Book
I think Peter Engel only made one origami book (Folding the Universe from A-Z is the first edition of this book) but it is my absolute favorite.It is NOT for beginners.It is harder than Montroll but easier for me to follow than Lang.The book starts off with the mathematics and theory you need to design your own Origami from scratch.The second half has some amazing origami models that are quite exquisite.The month spent folding the butterfly was well worth the effort, and I needed an unfolded paper clip to help in some cases.Still others are awed that I could fold something like that from a single sheet of paper.

If you are a true beginner, I would suggest Essential Origami: How To Build Dozens of Models from Just 10 Easy Bases by Steve & Megumi Biddle.This will make you familiar with all the Origami design directions and you can pick up Japanese or Spanish Origami books and just fold from the diagrams.Then you should switch to John Montroll (or just use his Origami for the Enthusiast (Origami) to take you from beginner to advanced by folding them all in this book in order) {most of his other books will work as well to get you from beginner to advanced} and be able to do his advanced models before proceeding to this book.This book will not teach you folding techniques so you need to be at least an intermediate folder.If you want a challenge after this book, you can try The Complete Book of Origami: Step-by Step Instructions in Over 1000 Diagrams (Origami) by Robert Lang.Or you could re-read the beginning of this book and try to come up with your own models.I just wish Engel would make another origami book.

Not Your Average Origami Book
I am a beginner folder, so I was more than a little challenged by the folding diagrams and directions in this book, which are clearly meant for more intermediate folkniks.However, with a little patience and fiddling, I have grown accustomed Engel's style of instruction, and enjoy puzzling out the assembly of his neato-keen models.Not only that, but the experience has enabled me to better interpret some of the diagrams I find on the web, which invariably have far less verbal instruction or may be in a different language altogether, though the symbols (arrows, dotted lines, et c.) are fairly standard.

What I think sets this book apart from other origami titles, aside from some pretty suave designs (an octopus? a dollar bill crab?How cool!), is that it isn't merely a collection of diagrams.Peter Engel spends something like the first third of the book on background.He sketches a brief history of the art around the world; he outlines basic geometric elements of the models he constructs; he gives a little idea of the creative process involved in designing new models, aesthetics and even politics involved in the art; and he draws parallels between origami structures and those found in the natural world, as well as those in fractal geometry.Also included is an account of an interview with the amazing late origami master, Akira Yoshizawa.Numerous references cited in the back of the book will probably serve as a good jumping off place for those interested in pursuing some of these esoteric topics.Despite the difficulties I have had in following some of the folding instructions, I think this is a well written and well rounded book, and I'm right glad i own it.

wanna learn history & philosophy?
this book is for advanced...first half is about history & philosophy of Origami & Zen. origami instructions are NOT for beginers. I was looking for somthing simple to teach my kids, so I needed to return it. But, as for the price it's a good book if you are looking for those stuff. the book is all black & white (no color pages), that's one of the reasons I did not like it (but what do you expect for $12?)

A brilliant book intended for hardcore aficionados
This is the most challenging origami book I have ever seen.Although I have grown up with origami and consider myself very experienced, I am still not able to complete some of the models near the end of the book.

The models near the end of the book require huge and very thin paper.You will need paper that is at least several feet to a side.

But I still say this book is a must-have for intermediate and advanced folders.Engel's folding style is very unique in the world of origami.Works like the rattlesnake and the caterpillar use original and unusual folding methods to obtain amazing results.The works are all very enjoyable to fold. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Lame excuses for flowers
This book was written by someone who expected its readers to be morons who knew nothing about origami.Some of the patterns don't even look like flowers, and the ones that look nice mostly require cheating - cutting with scissors or using glue.There is also a huge lack in variety of leaf and calyx patterns.Don't waste your time with these two little pamphlets. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (4)

It's not origami if you use scissors
Lame.This is not origami, it's arts and crafts.
The book is all packaging, a big colorful box, some poor quality paper, a figure, and a small pamphlet of designs.Worst of all is the liberal use of scissors.This is not origami.

Mythical Creature Origami, or so They Say
Although this is a great package for those who know nothing about Origami, for those who enjoy Origami this is not what you should buy. All of the pieces demand some form of cutting, and a few of them need glue.I found this quite disappointing, because I believe that part of the beauty of Origami lies in the manipulation of a piece of paper via folding to create something of beauty; cutting and glueing does not fit into this criteria. Nonetheless, this is still a great party gift as the end result of many of the pieces is very good.

Cool Stuff
I bought this for a friend of mine as part of theX'mas Present. She loves it!!

Great origami, if only impossible to fold with given instructions.
I started making the simplest form, the duck. Unfortunately, the book makes several impossible folds, or the pictures are flat out wrong. The book could have used some better proof-folding in which every step is compared to reality. (Its often impossible to go from a to b, and then impossible again to go from b to c). I've been folding as a hobby and consider myself relatively advanced in the art form, and given enough paper and time, I could create the end results using the SPIRIT of the instructions, I doubt that most could replicate the results following the instructions step by step.

Seeing as every box comes with a flying dragon, pre-folded, the forms are possible, just not with the included instructions.

Also, for those purists out there, nearly every mythical creature involves cutting or multiple sheets, violating the spirit of origami.

I'd recommend this pack for those who love a challenge, and like the mythical creatures they represent, the final forms may conflict with reality using the instructions given.

The included 50 sheets are nice, but you can get decorative paper in bulk for less than 10 bucks per 50. ... Read more

Product Description
Brief history, basic techniques and step-by-step instructions for 24 projects: hummingbird, giraffe, butterfly, kangaroo, more.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Extremely Useful and Great Skill level
This product was very useful with dynamic models that are not seen much. The models are hard, (sometimes a bit confusing), but in a good way. My favorites are the sun and the alligator. I haven't tried may of them yet, but they look very original.

My favorite Origami Book
I think Peter Engel only made one origami book (Folding the Universe from A-Z is the first edition of this book) but it is my absolute favorite.It is NOT for beginners.It is harder than Montroll but easier for me to follow than Lang.The book starts off with the mathematics and theory you need to design your own Origami from scratch.The second half has some amazing origami models that are quite exquisite.The month spent folding the butterfly was well worth the effort, and I needed an unfolded paper clip to help in some cases.Still others are awed that I could fold something like that from a single sheet of paper.

If you are a true beginner, I would suggest Essential Origami: How To Build Dozens of Models from Just 10 Easy Bases by Steve & Megumi Biddle.This will make you familiar with all the Origami design directions and you can pick up Japanese or Spanish Origami books and just fold from the diagrams.Then you should switch to John Montroll (or just use his Origami for the Enthusiast (Origami) to take you from beginner to advanced by folding them all in this book in order) {most of his other books will work as well to get you from beginner to advanced} and be able to do his advanced models before proceeding to this book.This book will not teach you folding techniques so you need to be at least an intermediate folder.If you want a challenge after this book, you can try The Complete Book of Origami: Step-by Step Instructions in Over 1000 Diagrams (Origami) by Robert Lang.Or you could re-read the beginning of this book and try to come up with your own models.I just wish Engel would make another origami book.

Not Your Average Origami Book
I am a beginner folder, so I was more than a little challenged by the folding diagrams and directions in this book, which are clearly meant for more intermediate folkniks.However, with a little patience and fiddling, I have grown accustomed Engel's style of instruction, and enjoy puzzling out the assembly of his neato-keen models.Not only that, but the experience has enabled me to better interpret some of the diagrams I find on the web, which invariably have far less verbal instruction or may be in a different language altogether, though the symbols (arrows, dotted lines, et c.) are fairly standard.

What I think sets this book apart from other origami titles, aside from some pretty suave designs (an octopus? a dollar bill crab?How cool!), is that it isn't merely a collection of diagrams.Peter Engel spends something like the first third of the book on background.He sketches a brief history of the art around the world; he outlines basic geometric elements of the models he constructs; he gives a little idea of the creative process involved in designing new models, aesthetics and even politics involved in the art; and he draws parallels between origami structures and those found in the natural world, as well as those in fractal geometry.Also included is an account of an interview with the amazing late origami master, Akira Yoshizawa.Numerous references cited in the back of the book will probably serve as a good jumping off place for those interested in pursuing some of these esoteric topics.Despite the difficulties I have had in following some of the folding instructions, I think this is a well written and well rounded book, and I'm right glad i own it.

wanna learn history & philosophy?
this book is for advanced...first half is about history & philosophy of Origami & Zen. origami instructions are NOT for beginers. I was looking for somthing simple to teach my kids, so I needed to return it. But, as for the price it's a good book if you are looking for those stuff. the book is all black & white (no color pages), that's one of the reasons I did not like it (but what do you expect for $12?)

A brilliant book intended for hardcore aficionados
This is the most challenging origami book I have ever seen.Although I have grown up with origami and consider myself very experienced, I am still not able to complete some of the models near the end of the book.

The models near the end of the book require huge and very thin paper.You will need paper that is at least several feet to a side.

But I still say this book is a must-have for intermediate and advanced folders.Engel's folding style is very unique in the world of origami.Works like the rattlesnake and the caterpillar use original and unusual folding methods to obtain amazing results.The works are all very enjoyable to fold. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Lame excuses for flowers
This book was written by someone who expected its readers to be morons who knew nothing about origami.Some of the patterns don't even look like flowers, and the ones that look nice mostly require cheating - cutting with scissors or using glue.There is also a huge lack in variety of leaf and calyx patterns.Don't waste your time with these two little pamphlets. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (4)

It's not origami if you use scissors
Lame.This is not origami, it's arts and crafts.
The book is all packaging, a big colorful box, some poor quality paper, a figure, and a small pamphlet of designs.Worst of all is the liberal use of scissors.This is not origami.

Mythical Creature Origami, or so They Say
Although this is a great package for those who know nothing about Origami, for those who enjoy Origami this is not what you should buy. All of the pieces demand some form of cutting, and a few of them need glue.I found this quite disappointing, because I believe that part of the beauty of Origami lies in the manipulation of a piece of paper via folding to create something of beauty; cutting and glueing does not fit into this criteria. Nonetheless, this is still a great party gift as the end result of many of the pieces is very good.

Cool Stuff
I bought this for a friend of mine as part of theX'mas Present. She loves it!!

Great origami, if only impossible to fold with given instructions.
I started making the simplest form, the duck. Unfortunately, the book makes several impossible folds, or the pictures are flat out wrong. The book could have used some better proof-folding in which every step is compared to reality. (Its often impossible to go from a to b, and then impossible again to go from b to c). I've been folding as a hobby and consider myself relatively advanced in the art form, and given enough paper and time, I could create the end results using the SPIRIT of the instructions, I doubt that most could replicate the results following the instructions step by step.

Seeing as every box comes with a flying dragon, pre-folded, the forms are possible, just not with the included instructions.

Also, for those purists out there, nearly every mythical creature involves cutting or multiple sheets, violating the spirit of origami.

I'd recommend this pack for those who love a challenge, and like the mythical creatures they represent, the final forms may conflict with reality using the instructions given.

The included 50 sheets are nice, but you can get decorative paper in bulk for less than 10 bucks per 50. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (3)

An impressive origami collection
When the subtitle for this book says it includes every origami project ever, the statement isn't far from the truth.The book clocks in at an amazing 512-page count, and it does include many, many origami projects.The projects included are a compilation of the most popular projects from the author's other books and there is a wide variety to be found here, from holiday to monsters to projects made with dollar bills.The assortment here is quite impressive, and is easily the book's strongest selling point.There's even a section on beginner origami projects for those unfamiliar with the paper folding art.

However, other than that first beginner section, many of the projects are fairly complicated and including difficult things such as using several papers, cuts, and complicated folds.Still, the step-by-step instructions are clear enough that with some practice it's possible to figure out even the difficult steps.Overall, this would make a great gift for any origami enthusiast, although you might want to pick up a different volume until you have a basic knowledge of beginning origami.

Reviewed by Alyssa Feller

The Ultimate Origami Book
We bought this for my 9 year old son who is a huge origami fan. We wanted a book that had so many different projects that he could use it for a long time and always find something new to make. He absolutely LOVED the book and uses it often to make Origami.

The projects are well illustrated and he's had no issues making any of them.Uber Origami simply delivers.

Best Origami Book Ever!
Note: I'm typing this while my 10 year old son dictates.He's been doing origami for 3 years.

I am very impressed with the aircraft carriers, submarines and helicopters and dinosaurs with famous people, baby Jesus and I really appreicate that they have Velociraptor and the king cobra is very realistic.Sadly my parasaurolophus will not stand up.This book combines just about every paper folding book I either own or have checked out from the library plus some designs I've never seen before.The dollar bill scorpin is amazing.It's the best origami book ever.I just got it from the library.I'd buy it if I weren't saving up for Lego Harry Potter.It'll be on my Christmas list though.For the price it's a steal.

Note from mom:I agree.I have seen many books on the subject but if I were only buying one - this would be it.Great lay out and clarity.Nguyen has written a number of books on the subject - all of which my son as enjoyed but I really haven't come across anything even close to being as comprehensive.I highly recommend.Guess I've tipped my Christmas hand. ... Read more

Product Description
Employing the unit-origami concept, this book provides step-by-step, illustrated instructions for making dozens of beautiful boxes suitable for either display or gifts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

Fantastic
This book started my fascination with origami boxes. It is still one of my favorites and if I had to save one origami book in a fire this would be it.The boxes are beautiful. Fuse has a reputation as a master origami-folder. However, the diagrams can be hard to follow, and come across as assuming that the folder can read Fuse's mind. I've successfully made a few boxes, but I didn't love this book, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone except a hard-core origami enthusiast. My favorite box in this collection is the triangular box. Seven years ago, my husband and I folded 150 silver boxes for wedding favors.

Exceptionally Beautiful Designs by a Master
This is one of the finest books in "modular origami". Every box in the book is a delight to assemble and to showcase. Some patience might be necessary when you assemble your first box. Thereafter, assembly becomes easy. The diagrams are high quality: clear and precise -- I was never 'stuck' at any point. After assembling all the boxes in the book, I marveled at the skill and insight behind Tomoko Fuse's designs -- she is a true exponent of this art form.

Outstanding origami book
If you like origami or origami boxes, you need to own this book.

It was written by the queen of origami boxes, Tomoko Fuse. This is an outstanding book because the directions and illustrations are nicely done and easy to follow.

The book has SQUARE boxes.It has TRIANGULAR boxes.It has HEXAGONAL (6-sided) boxes.It has OCTAGONAL (8-sided) boxes. All boxes have lids and Fuse gives lid variations of many of the boxes.

The boxes are beautiful AND functional.Use the boxes to organize office drawers, hold your jewelry, etc.

They make wonderful (and strong) containers for gifts.It's fun to make them in graduated sizes and "nest" the boxes, tucking the gift (jewelry, check, watch, etc.) inside the final box.

The first time origami folder will breeze through the beginning folds of most of the boxes. The final steps of the boxes are a bit more challenging and will take the new folder a bit more effort to figure out. In other words, the end steps where you fold the flat paper up into the 3-D side of the box can be a bit confusing to a new folder.

That's typical of most origami books. However this book is far, far, far better than most in guiding you through the final steps.And if you get stuck, look at the next illustration to help you figure out how to do the current fold.

If you're new to origami or to boxes, start with the regular 4-sided box at the beginning of the book.That will familiarize you with Fuse's diagrams and instructions.

The square boxes are very fast to make ONCE you're familiar with the technique.You can easily do an entire square box (top and bottom) in 5-10 minutes.The square box is a very strong box and quite delightful.While it's not as stunning as the hexagon, use good paper and bright colors and you'll love the result. So will the recipient of the square box!

Once you've mastered the technique of the 4-sided box, you'll definitely want to make the hexagon box.This once takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete once you're familiar with the steps.

The hexagon box is my favorite.It's quite strong and quite stunning.You get a "star burst" effect on the lid if you use paper that is colored on one side and white on the other (or paper that is colored differently on each side).

One more tip....these boxes are easier to make if you use REAL origami paper rather than colored copy paper.Why REAL origami paper??

Because REAL origami paper folds MUCH crisper, holds its edges MUCH better, and slides MUCH easier than colored copy paper. "Sliding" is important when fitting the boxes together because paper that doesn't slide well crunches up or wrinkles when you try to put the boxes together.

And you don't have to spend a ton on beautiful origami papers when you're first learning.You can buy Bulk packages of 100 to 500 sheets of assorted-color origami paper which works just fine for learning and practice.

Happy Folding!:D

I love the "Aaaah!" moment
I've been folding origami for about a month now, and as with just about everything I've tried, I've thrown myself into it with enthusiasm. This is definitely one of my favorite origami books I've checked out of the library (and I'm just about to order a copy for myself). A couple of the reviewers have expressed some frustration with the instructions, but I can't say I share the sentiment. Some of the models require careful examination of the diagrams (and sometimes it's possible to miss a small detail if you're a bit careless or distracted), but I've made all but three of the models in the book and any difficulty I've encountered was cleared up after a few minutes of studying the diagrams and/or experimenting with manipulating the model. When suddenly things come together beautifully just as they should, I always mutter "Aaaaah!" under my breath, and I love that little rush of accomplishment. (What can I say, I dream small.)

I would say this is not a good choice for a first book of origami (not that it is presented as such), but for most people with an interest and a modest amount of patience, it is very nice. Practical, too - I enjoy folding the little jumping frogs, swans, doves, puppies, etc., but when they're done, I'm done and they go away. For these boxes, I can see lots of uses, especially as small gift boxes; I'm going to look for some kind of spray- or paint-on lacquer or other finish that will make the finished boxes stiffer and/or give them a glossy finish.

Fantastic book
Tomoko Fuse is fantastic!I would recommend almost all of her books.This book is no exception.As a lover of origami, and practical things, I can't go past Tomoko Fuse's box books.

I was a beginner folder when I first bought her box books and have never had a problem following her directions.I have also taught the folding or some of her boxes to a group of 10-15 year olds.Although they needed a bit of help here and there, they were capable of folding the boxes. (Some, of course were better than others at understanding the diagrams, but most caught on eventually).

The boxes have endless uses, paperclips at work, shortbread in them at Christmas time for gifts, to hold Easter eggs at Easter.

If you are trying to choose between Fuse's Origami Boxes and Fuse's Fabulous Origami Boxes, my advice is to give in and purchase them both.They do not contain duplicate boxes.

I reccomend Fuses's box books over Florence Temko's Origami Boxes and More!, however, Temko's book contains easier models. ... Read more

Product Description
Both beginners and veteran folders will love this instructive volume and its clear directions and crisp diagrams. Readers learn the basic folds, one at a time, for 27 simple models (a frog, star, piano, penguin, more), a dozen intermediate designs (a pig, kangaroo, camel, etc.), and five advanced models (impossible vase, deer, waterwheel, elephant, and bee). Perfect for classroom use.
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Customer Reviews (9)

Great Starting Point
I decided to learn a little origami for fun, and am glad I found this book.The book is divided into basic, intermediate, and advanced origami, with easy ones comprising half the book.Montroll introduces a fold or technique, and then follows up with a design or two using what was just covered.The diagrams are easy to follow, and a few tricker folds (e.g. petal fold) show intermediate steps to help visualization.About the only thing I did extra was pencil in page numbers besides the table of folds and bases for my own quick reference.This is the great thing about this book, it illustrates and names the techniques (e.g. minor miracle, blintz fold, squash fold, bird base, crimp fold, and so on) which lets me understand more complicated origami instructions (even though I might not be able to fold them just yet).After this book you too will be able to decipher more challenging projects, like ones from Lang.

The Perfect Beginner Book
I have several beginner to intermediate instructionals on origami. I haven't folded every model in any of them yet, but I have read through all of them and this one is absolutely the best of the bunch for the new-comer trying to get the basics.
This book does something I love a lot. Instead of having an introduction that teaches you all the basic folds and bases and then going into a chapter that features "easy" models that may or not use those folds/bases and throws them at you in random order, Montroll's book shows you a base, encourages you to practice that fold and even walks you through practicing it on some scrap paper and then shows you a model that you make using that base! And then you move onto the next base and repeat the process; practice walk-through and then a model made using that base.
If you read the instructions and fold every model you'll never suddenly come upon a supposedly "beginner" model that you have no clue how to fold because you've forgotten that one page from the intro.
Probably most importantly, Montroll's picks in this book are interesting to fold, even the ones I thought would be stupid and boring, like the Samurai helmet/hat and the table. I am primarily interested in animal models, so I originally planned to just skip anything in his book that wasn't an animal, but on a whim decided instead to follow his advice and fold everything in the book from page one on and I found that I had fun folding everything! The table was actually especially rewarding as it turns out since I made it from a larger sheet of paper and then was able to set the smaller Samurai helmet on top of it.
Even the simplest models, like the penguin which I had memorized after just one folding, are satisfying to fold over and over again.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a low-stress, user-friendly introduction to origami.

So helpful!
This book does a really great job demonstrating all the folds you will come across not only in Montroll's books but in any origami book. Then for each fold there is a project so you see how it is used in a typical figure. I never fully understood the double rabbit ear fold until I got this book.

Not only does it teach you all the folds, but there is a lot of really great projects to do. Every one I've done stands up on its own, even the birds.

John Montroll's origami books are my favorite- I prefer the more realistic looking results and love that there is never any cutting (for some reason that feels like cheating, plus it's nice to do something with only your hands, you know?).

Origami for first timers
I picked this book as my intro to origami. I can't be more pleased so far.

The book takes you through new models as it introduces you to new folds.Each new fold is used in a new model as well as new models incorporating already learned folds. Models get progressively more difficult, but the illustrations are clear and able to be followed with no struggle.

Standard origami notation for folds is used. Models are based on square paper, with differing color sides. I've been working through the models with larger size paper and found that works fine for the models so far.

Another positive is the reinforcing of some basic folds or starter folds.These folds are used in more complex origami models.

Rewarding introduction as well because the reader can immediately make something interesting with the earliest models.A handful of models in, the waterbomb base is given, and the walk through was spot on.

On a personal note, I've been able to share pictures of houses, boats, and more already. I feel confident to make several of the basic folds after just a short time.

Highly recommend this for beginners. Also, the price makes this an even better value.

A great origami guide
The illustrations are clear and easy to understand; hand this product (and a pack of origami paper) to a bright, interested 7-year-old and watch origami sprout all over your house. ... Read more

Product Description
Step-by-step instructions and clearly detailed diagrams enable origamists to build over 35 different polyhedra from origami units. Fascinating models range from relatively simple modular cubes and a stellated octahedron to more advanced two-piece modules, a gyroscope, and a 14-sided cuboctahedron. Subjects—graded according to difficulty—will not only challenge devotees of the ancient Japanese art of paperfolding, but can also be used to demonstrate geometric principles in the classroom.
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Customer Reviews (6)

Could be better...
This book would be a whole lot better if the diagrams were better than just black & white lines without any shading or anything to show dimension...You need to know what you're doing to figure out how to make the items in this book.

Good book - not for the beginner
While the diagrams are not always easy to follow, intermediate + folders should be able to figure it out.If you can get over the black and white pictures in the book and imagine the models in colour, it is obvious that there are some very good models in this book (mainly interesting cubes).

Like most modular models, you will require some patience to fold these models, as you will have to fold many of the same things over and over again.

So in summary - great book, will need patience, but well worth the effort.

Origami book
I was really disapointed over this book. The drawings was to unclear and difficult to understand. And I am very sorry that I am not able to use this book.

Terrible...even for an experienced folder
I have been doing origami for about 10 years, and have had great success with modular origami (mostly from "Unit Origami" by Tomoko Fuse).This book has diagrams that are hard to understand, the colored side of the paper is not even marked so it's very difficult to know if you are folding correctly.There are no written instructions, only the bad diagrams and I could not make a single model from this book.Even the few photos of the completed models were in black and white and not very good photos at all.I would recommend Fuse's book or another modular origami book with better diagrams.For those that have had success with models from this book, congratulations, but even with my usual vast amount of patience it did not take long for me to throw this book across the room in frustration.However, I will say that the models are very unique and beatiful and if you can do them, they should be very satisfying. I am copying this same review for "3-d Geometric Origami" by Gurkewitz and Arnstein, for I felt the same was true of that book.

Knifty models confusingly presented
That rating is really 3 1/2 stars, because the book is better than just average.It may look slim, but it's chock-full of several models in each of many families of modules.Not hours, but weeks of fun (not to mention a lot of paper squares).

The problem is the presentation.Many models are hard to follow, especially when trying to put them together; more than once, I had to refer to another book to figure out what to do.Some diagrams are confusing, if not outright wrong (3-dimensional pictures are especially prone to this).Occasionally instructions are alluded to (e.g., in captions) that aren't there.There's a complete absence of cross-references between illustrative photos and instructions for folding them.

In short, a frustrating book.If the good parts weren't so good, it wouldn't be quite so frustrating. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (5)

Really neat
I bought this as a gift for my sister who has everything and is extremely difficult to buy for.The book was really neat and the instructions were well laid out, I'm just not sure if it will ever be used.Who has time for napkin origami?

A little time please.
Fun ideas for entertaining, but to also amuse little ones on rainy days.I liked the variety of designs, but as stated in other reviews, time to do it.These are not for the "oh oh company will be here in 15 minutes and the table's not set" host/hostess.An iron is quite helpful.The diagrams are detailed and easy to follow, even for the more complex folds.Having a finished photograph is an additional help in showing various table settings as well.

Fun, but takes time
This is fun to do, but you need undisturbed time to do it.Suggest using an iron to see folds as you progress.

origami book
I didn't really like the book, It was obvious that the napkins are so starched and that it wouldn't work any other way and if you've ever tried to wipe your mouth with a mega starched napkin it's uncomforable.

Easy to follow
Well-written with clear instructions and good step-by-step. I liked that there are a variety of shapes included. Many of them are quite challenging. Overall, think this book has the proverbial "something for everyone." If you're looking to dress up your table, this book is a good choice. ... Read more

Product Description
Kids and folders of all ages will love turning brightly colored paper into 20 different creepy, crawly creatures. Fun to play with or for display, this kit contains everything the novice folder needs to get started in origami. Projects include ants, dragonflies, and tarantulas. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A little too simple
The paper in this kit is awesome. Fun and colorful.

However, the origami is so simple that most of the bugs don't even look like bugs. I felt bad for my kid, I kept asking him, "What is that?" I looked at the book and his models looked just like the ones in the book.

Disappointed, he finally decided to use the paper for other models that actually looked like something. I understand wanting to keep it simple, but when the final model doesn't resemble anything, then it's not worth it.

If you bought this and want to know what else to do with the paper, there's lots of good origami models on the internet.

fold those bugs!!!!!
Micheal lafosse is a creative genius in the origami world. His books have great models as well as directions that you can follow and enjoy. Never hesitate to buy one of his origami books. Just the best! Bravo to you Michael! ... Read more

Product Description
Two dozen sheets of authentic origami paper (two each of 12 different colors) for creating fascinating figures, shapes and objects. Easier-to-fold, large-size white-backed sheets help origamists free a multitude of configurations from flat piece of paper.
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Customer Reviews (3)

Average Quality Paper
This is a pretty standard set of origami paper, no special bells or whistles, but the large size makes it suitable for very intricate, complex models with many tiny folds.It is also good for beginners who are still learning the art of origami.A word of caution: the dye on the red paper and the other deep colors tends to rub off while you're folding.

This paper is BIG
This paper is bigger than I thought it whoud be.The colors are good.

Good practice paper
I received my paper and ripped open the pack so I could start folding.I was immediately disappointed by the selection of colors.The colors themselves are good enough, however they are boring.They make yourcreations uninteresting and drab.I prefer patterned color paper.Thepaper performs well and I recommend this paper for practicing because ifyou mess up you didn't lose all that much. ... Read more