Paper

I am often asked what kind of paper to use for origami. There is no single answer; it depends on what you're folding. On this and following pages, I'll talk a little bit about the most common types of paper for origami and my own experiences with them. You can begin with the first article, or pick the one you're interested in from this list.

• Traditional Papers—Paper is all around us; how does the everyday stuff work for origami?
• Metallic Papers—Metallic papers, like foil-backed wrapping paper, are cheap, readily available, and great for practicing shaping and complex folds.
• Wet-Folding Papers—For sculptural origami, the technique of wet-folding, invented by Yoshizawa, allows the creation of organic, lifelike forms, but requires special paper and technique.
• Novelty Papers—Origami can be folded from almost anything, as long as it is sheet-like and takes a crease. Here are just a few of the examples.

See also my list of online suppliers of papers for origami.

Next: Paper is all around us →