Easy Butterfly Origami

My new book, Easy Butterfly Origami features 30 bold full-color patterns designed to accurately portray the dorsal and ventral sides of some of the most beautiful butterflies from around the world!

Origami Folding Tips

Origami, from the Japanese ori (to fold) and kami (paper), began in the 6th century when Buddhist monks introduced paper to Japan. The print-and-fold crafts and easy diagrams are designed to help children with fine motor skills, directions and hand eye coordination. Some basic origami folding tips:
  • Print and cut out patterns carefully.
  • Fold with clean, dry hands.
  • Follow the instructions. Study the diagrams and be patient.
  • Be precise: fold each crease well, flattening the creases by running your fingertip over the fold.
  • Folding the paper away from you is easier than folding towards you.
  • Be creative...use your origami on greeting cards, holiday decorations, table place cards and bookmarks.

Totoro Origami

Print and Fold Totoro, from Hayao Miyazaki's classic animated film, My Neighbor Totoro (となりのトトロ, Tonari no Totoro).


Difficulty: Easy

Directions: 

1. Print Totoro Origami and cut out along outer line (choose between smiling Totoro and quiet Totoro).

2. Turn origami over, with printed side facing down. Fold along diagonal line A, as shown.
3. Fold up along diagonal line B, as shown.


4. Fold along diagonal line C, as shown.

5. Repeat origami fold on other side.


6. Fold along vertical line E, as shown. Then fold along line F, to create one of your origami Totoro's hands.

7. Repeat on other side.

8. Turn your origami Totoro over, printed side facing up.

9. Fold back on lines I and J.

10. Fold back along diagonal lines around Totoro's head...and your origami Totoro is done!

©2012 Tammy Yee



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