The History of Origami
Origami is the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative shapes and figures. Its roots can be traced back to the 6th century when Buddhist monks brought paper from China to Japan. The art form became popular in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868) and has since evolved into a worldwide phenomenon.
Introduction to 折り紙 しろくま
折り紙 しろくま or Origami Shirokuma is a type of origami that involves folding paper into a cute and cuddly polar bear. This particular design is popular among both children and adults due to its simplicity and adorable appearance.
Materials Needed
To create 折り紙 しろくま, you will need a square piece of paper. Traditionally, origami paper is used, but any paper can be used as long as it is square. The size of the paper will determine the size of the final product.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Begin by folding the paper in half diagonally, crease it well and then unfold it.
2. Fold the paper in half diagonally the other way, crease it well and then unfold it.
3. Fold the paper in half horizontally, crease it well and then unfold it.
4. Fold the paper in half vertically, crease it well and then unfold it.
5. Fold the top layer of paper down along the crease made in step 3, crease it well and then unfold it.
6. Fold the top layer of paper up along the crease made in step 4, crease it well and then unfold it.
7. Bring the top layer of paper down to meet the centre crease made in step 1, crease it well and then unfold it.
8. Bring the top layer of paper up to meet the centre crease made in step 2, crease it well and then unfold it.
9. Fold the top layer of paper along the crease made in step 5, crease it well and then unfold it.
10. Fold the top layer of paper along the crease made in step 6, crease it well and then unfold it.
11. Push the top and bottom of the paper inwards along the crease made in step 7, crease it well and then flatten it.
12. Fold the top corner of the paper down along the crease made in step 1, crease it well and then unfold it.
13. Fold the top corner of the paper down along the crease made in step 9, crease it well and then unfold it.
14. Fold the top corner of the paper down along the crease made in step 5, crease it well and then unfold it.
15. Fold the bottom corner of the paper up along the crease made in step 6, crease it well and then unfold it.
16. Fold the left and right corners of the paper inwards along the crease made in step 7, crease it well and then flatten it.
17. Fold the top corner of the paper down along the crease made in step 12, crease it well and then unfold it.
18. Fold the top corner of the paper down along the crease made in step 13, crease it well and then unfold it.
19. Fold the top corner of the paper down along the crease made in step 14, crease it well and then unfold it.
20. Fold the bottom corner of the paper up along the crease made in step 15, crease it well and then unfold it.
21. Fold the left and right corners of the paper inwards along the crease made in step 16, crease it well and then flatten it.
22. Gently pull the sides of the paper apart to create the head and body of the polar bear.
23. Fold the ears down along the creases made in step 17, crease them well and then unfold them slightly to create a more 3D effect.
24. Add the finishing touches to the face by drawing on the eyes, nose and mouth.
Conclusion
折り紙 しろくま is a fun and easy origami project that can be enjoyed by all ages. With a little patience and practice, anyone can create this adorable polar bear. So, grab a piece of paper and get folding!
