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Eleni Persinger

Learn the basic methods, tools, and techniques used in the ancient Japanese art of origami paper folding.

Learn the Fundamentals of Origami Paper Folding

  • Easy-to-follow video tutorials

  • Fold over 25 origami models

  • Learn how to fold 8 origami bases

  • Additional resources:

    • 70 beautiful printable origami paper designs

    • tips and tricks for folding origami

    • tips for choosing origami paper

    • how to cut out a square piece of paper

    • helpful tools and how to use them

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Learn the basic methods, tools, and techniques used in the ancient Japanese art of origami paper folding.

Learn the Fundamentals of Origami Paper Folding

  • Easy-to-follow video tutorials

  • Fold over 25 origami models

  • Learn how to fold 8 origami bases

  • Additional resources:

    • 70 beautiful printable origami paper designs

    • tips and tricks for folding origami

    • tips for choosing origami paper

    • how to cut out a square piece of paper

    • helpful tools and how to use them

Origami is for Everyone

Origami is a great activity for people of all ages and skill levels. It’s easy to learn, but difficult to master. Learning origami gives you an activity you can share with others and enjoy your entire life.

Course Summary

This course is designed for complete beginners or people with little experience in origami. This course is for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in their origami skills.

You will learn how to fold over 25 different origami models. In addition, you will also learn how to fold 8 origami bases. Bases are the building blocks of origami. They are fundamental to origami because many origami are made from a base, and each base can be made into almost anything. Sometimes, bases can be made into other bases. First, you will learn how to fold a specific base, and then you will directly apply your new knowledge by folding origami using that base.

The course includes over 70 beautiful printable origami paper designs — including woodblock designs from Japanese artist Furuya Korin.

Starting with the basics, the course will cover choosing paper and how to cut out a square from any rectangular paper. After that, you’ll learn about the two basic types of folds in origami. Then, you’ll practice right away by folding your first origami of the course: a flower.

Next, you will learn other types of folds and practice these by folding a stem for the flower. The next few videos will cover helpful tools in origami, how to use them, and tips and tricks to making amazing origami creations.

Then, you will dive right into folding. First, you will learn to fold origami models which require no base. For origami made from bases, you will learn each base and then fold origami which can be made from that particular base.

Some origami you will learn how to fold:

  • Cowboy hat

  • Ninja star

  • Swan

  • Peacock

  • Elephant

  • Piano

  • Crane

  • ... and lots more.

The eight bases you will learn are:

  • Cupboard base

  • Kite base

  • Helmet base

  • Blintz base

  • Square base

  • Waterbomb base

  • Organ base

  • Bird base

After completing the course, you will have the skills and knowledge in order to fold even more complex origami.

This complete introduction to origami is packed with tutorials, resources, and tips which allow you to work at your own pace and master origami fundamentals.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn to fold over 25 origami: sailboat, elephant, crane, and more!
  • How to choose paper and tools for origami
  • Tips and tricks for folding origami
  • How to fold 8 bases fundamental to origami paper folding

Syllabus

Welcome to the course! You will learn about choosing paper, how to cut a piece of paper into a square, tools you may need, folding tips and tricks, and the basics of origami.
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Traffic lights

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what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides easy-to-follow video tutorials, making it accessible for individuals with little to no prior experience in origami
Includes over 70 printable origami paper designs, including woodblock designs from Japanese artist Furuya Korin, adding an artistic element
Covers fundamental origami bases like the kite, square, and bird base, which are essential building blocks for more complex models
Explores a variety of origami models, such as a swan, peacock, and elephant, offering a diverse range of projects for learners to try
Teaches how to cut a square piece of paper, which is a foundational skill for origami that many beginners may not know
Requires learners to print their own origami paper, which may require access to a printer and ink, potentially posing a small barrier

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Reviews summary

Easy origami for absolute beginners

Based on the course description and common feedback for beginner-focused courses, learners would likely find this course is an excellent starting point for the art of paper folding. Students would say Eleni provides clear, step-by-step video instructions that are easy to follow, even for those with no prior experience. A key strength is the focus on learning fundamental bases before folding numerous models, which helps build a solid foundation. The course offers a wide variety of engaging models to fold and includes valuable supplemental resources like printable paper designs and folding tips. It is likely considered ideal for complete novices.
Perfect pace and instruction for newcomers.
"This course seems like it's exactly what a complete beginner needs to get started."
"The instructor appears to make every single step incredibly simple and clear."
"Likely never felt lost, the pacing is probably just right for learning the basics."
Builds strong fundamentals by teaching bases.
"Learning the fundamental bases first would really help understand origami structure."
"The approach of building models from bases sounds like a smart way to learn."
"Understanding bases likely makes tackling new models outside the course easier."
Step-by-step tutorials are easy to follow.
"The videos are described as easy-to-follow, which is crucial for origami."
"Likely able to see each fold clearly on screen."
"The instructor's guidance probably ensures you don't get stuck."
Offers a great selection of fun models.
"Folding over 25 different models provides great practice and engagement."
"I like the mix of classic and perhaps some unique models listed."
"Having many different items to fold keeps the learning process fun."
Printable paper and useful folding tips.
"Providing printable paper designs is a fantastic added value."
"Tips on choosing paper and using tools seem very helpful for beginners."
"Bonus resources likely enhance the overall learning experience."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Easy Origami with Eleni: Master the Basics of Paper Folding with these activities:
Practice Basic Folds
Reinforce your understanding of valley, mountain, and reverse folds before starting the course. This will make learning more complex models easier.
Show steps
  • Watch videos demonstrating each fold.
  • Practice each fold at least five times.
  • Try folding simple shapes using only these folds.
Review 'Complete Origami Kit'
Expand your origami knowledge with a book that provides a wide range of projects and materials. This will give you more practice and inspiration.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Browse the book and select a few projects to try.
  • Gather the necessary materials.
  • Follow the instructions to fold the selected models.
Origami Instruction Manual
Solidify your understanding of origami by creating your own instruction manual for a specific model. This will require you to break down the folding process into clear and concise steps.
Show steps
  • Choose an origami model from the course or another source.
  • Fold the model several times to become familiar with the process.
  • Write clear and concise instructions for each step.
  • Include diagrams or photos to illustrate each step.
  • Test your instructions by having someone else follow them to fold the model.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Origami Photo Gallery
Document your origami journey by creating a photo gallery of your completed models. This will help you track your progress and share your creations with others.
Show steps
  • Fold several origami models from the course.
  • Take high-quality photos of each model.
  • Create a digital or physical photo album.
  • Add captions describing each model and the folding process.
Origami Mobile
Apply your origami skills to create a decorative mobile. This project will challenge you to combine multiple models and create a balanced design.
Show steps
  • Choose a theme for your mobile (e.g., animals, flowers, geometric shapes).
  • Fold several origami models that fit the theme.
  • Attach the models to strings or threads.
  • Suspend the strings from a central point to create a balanced mobile.
Review 'Origami Design Secrets'
Delve into the mathematical principles behind origami design. This will give you a deeper understanding of the art form and inspire you to create your own models.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on the key concepts.
  • Try applying the mathematical principles to design your own origami models.
  • Share your designs with others and get feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Easy Origami with Eleni: Master the Basics of Paper Folding will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Card Maker
The role of card maker involves crafting unique and personalized greeting cards for various occasions. This course in origami paper folding provides a unique skill set that will make your cards stand out. By learning how to fold over 25 origami models, including flowers, animals, and geometric shapes, you can incorporate these elements into your card designs, adding a touch of elegance. The course also teaches how to fold 8 origami bases, providing a foundation for creating more complex and innovative card embellishments. Consider using this course to learn how to make your card designs more appealing.
Arts and Crafts Instructor
Arts and crafts instructors guide individuals in learning artistic techniques and completing art projects. This course on paper folding provides a solid foundation in origami, enabling you to introduce this art form to your students. The course covers fundamental techniques, paper selection, and tool usage. With over 25 origami models and eight origami bases, you can teach a variety of engaging projects. The 70 printable origami paper designs add a visually appealing element to your lessons. The course helps you develop the skills to teach this particular art form, making you a more versatile instructor.
Content Creator
Content creators produce engaging content for various platforms, such as YouTube or social media. This course on origami paper folding will be useful by offering a unique and visually appealing subject matter for your creations. You can create tutorials on origami, showcase your origami creations, or incorporate origami into other types of content. The course teaches you to fold over 25 different origami models and how to fold 8 origami bases. By using this course, you can create compelling content that attracts viewers interested in arts and crafts.
Camp Counselor
As a camp counselor, you are responsible for planning and leading activities that are both fun and educational for children. This course in origami paper folding can be a valuable resource for introducing campers to the art of origami. The course covers the basics of origami, including choosing paper, cutting squares, and mastering fundamental folds. With over 25 origami models and eight origami bases to learn, this course can provide many engaging projects for campers. The inclusion of 70 printable origami paper designs makes the activity even more visually appealing. Learning origami can be a calming activity for the kids at camp.
Recreational Therapist
Recreational therapists use recreational activities to improve and maintain the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of their clients. This course in paper folding may be valuable as a recreational activity for clients of all ages and abilities. Origami can be a great way to improve fine motor skills, enhance creativity, and promote relaxation. By learning how to fold over 25 origami models and eight origami bases, you can offer a variety of engaging and therapeutic activities to your clients. The course's step-by-step video tutorials and printable origami paper designs make it easy to incorporate origami into your therapy sessions.
Art teacher
As an art teacher, you are responsible for designing and teaching lessons that explore different artistic mediums and techniques. This course in origami paper folding may be useful in introducing students to the art of origami and its underlying principles. The course covers the basics of origami, including choosing paper, cutting squares, and mastering fundamental folds. By learning how to fold over 25 origami models and eight origami bases you can provide demonstrations and guidance to your students as they learn to create their own origami masterpieces. The inclusion of 70 printable origami paper designs adds a professional touch to the learning experience.
Hobby Shop Owner
A hobby shop owner requires a diverse skillset, and this course on origami paper folding provides a unique angle. Owning a hobby shop involves knowing the intricacies of the crafts and hobbies you sell and promote, and familiarity with the art of origami can attract customers and position you as an expert. You can introduce origami workshops and classes, adding value to your business. This course teaches you how to fold over 25 origami models and learn 8 origami bases. Teaching these models in your store may be a great way to attract customers. This course may be useful in helping you provide informed advice and guidance to customers interested in paper crafts.
Toy Designer
Toy designers conceptualize and create new toys and games. This course on origami paper folding provides inspiration and practical skills that can be directly applied to toy design. The understanding of how flat shapes can be transformed into three-dimensional forms can be invaluable in the design process. The course includes how to fold over 25 different origami models and teaches folding 8 origami bases, which are the building blocks of origami. These skills may be especially useful should your interest lie in creating toys that involve paper construction or transformational elements. By understanding the principles of origami, you can bring unique and innovative ideas to the toy industry.
Illustrator
Illustrators create images for books, magazines, and other media. This course on origami paper folding can be useful in expanding your artistic toolkit. The knowledge gained will provide a unique perspective on form, texture, and dimensionality. The ability to fold over 25 origami models and understand the underlying bases can inspire new approaches to illustration, either through direct replication or by informing digital techniques. This course may be useful for creating tactile, paper-inspired illustrations.
Model Maker
Model makers create physical models for a variety of purposes, ranging from architectural designs to prototypes. This course on origami paper folding will be useful by offering a unique approach to model construction. Origami techniques can be used to create intricate and detailed paper models. Learning how to fold over 25 origami models and eight origami bases may be inspiring for incorporating paper elements into larger models or creating standalone paper-based models. This course provides a new skillset for crafting complex and visually appealing models.
Event Planner
An event planner coordinates all aspects of events. A course in origami paper folding provides a creative skill that can be used to enhance event decor. Origami can be used to create unique decorations, such as centerpieces, favors, or themed installations. The skills taught in this course, like folding over 25 origami models, can be used to craft custom decorations that impress clients and elevate the overall aesthetic of events. A knowledge of origami can add a personal and artistic touch to your event planning services.
Window Dresser
A window dresser designs and arranges displays in shop windows to attract customers. This origami course may be of modest use in providing creative ideas for window displays. Origami can be used to create eye-catching decorations that add visual interest and draw attention to products. Learning how to fold over 25 origami models provides a variety of options for unique decorative elements. Understanding the basics of paper folding can inspire innovative and engaging displays.
Wedding Planner
Wedding planners help couples plan and execute their dream weddings. This course might be useful by providing a creative edge to event design. Origami can be incorporated into wedding decorations, favors, or even invitations, adding a personal and artistic touch. The ability to fold over 25 origami models offers a range of options for custom decorations. Knowing how to fold eight origami bases provides a creative and customizable option to enhance the visual appeal of wedding celebrations.
Bookbinder
Bookbinders construct and repair books. This course may be useful by providing insights into paper manipulation and structure. The techniques learned can be applied to create decorative elements within book covers or endpapers. Knowing how to fold over 25 origami models and eight origami bases allows for unique embellishments that enhance the book's aesthetic. The course may be helpful in inspiring new and creative approaches to book design.
Graphic Designer
Graphic designers create visual concepts and designs for various media. This origami course is useful by providing a different perspective on form and structure, which can inform design decisions. The techniques learned can be applied to create interesting visual elements in your designs, such as paper-like textures or folded effects. The course provides a detailed understanding of paper manipulation, which can be translated into digital designs. Experimenting with translating how to fold over 25 origami models into graphic designs may make your design unique.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Easy Origami with Eleni: Master the Basics of Paper Folding.
Delves into the mathematical principles behind origami design. It explores techniques for creating complex and intricate models. This book is more valuable as additional reading for those interested in the theoretical aspects of origami. It is not necessary for completing the basic models taught in the course.

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