Introduction to Design

To create origami is to solve the problem: how do you distribute a square sheet of paper into a recognizable figure? This can be a challenging task that requires experience, concentration, and a lot of patience.

The Design Process

There are many methods to design origami; the process explained here is a general method to design realistic figurative models.

First, thoroughly research your subject. Note every detail: proportions, characteristics, colors, etc. You can also brainstorm ideas on how you want specific parts to look and sketch a basic figure. 

The next task is to visualize and distribute the various parts of the figure efficiently across the square sheet of paper. With a sheet of paper in front of you, identify possible configurations of the parts that can fit efficiently in the square. You can mark and label the areas with a pencil. Try to make the positions and proportions as reasonable as possible, and make sure you are not leaving any one part out. If there are multiple configurations to distribute the parts across the paper, choose the most intuitive first, then test out the others.

Next, the objective is to design the base. You can choose a style, such as 22.5° or boxpleating, and begin folding precreases so that the paper can be collapsed according to the configuration determined in the previous step. Fold enough precreases so that you can minimize the number of times you have to unfold and refold the partially collapsed base. Not all the precreases will be used. Start collapsing the sheet of paper into a base—constructing various parts of the figure and adding more creases as you progress. You may need to test the other configurations if the initial one does not collapse efficiently. During this process, fold as many variations as necessary. You will likely have to adjust the ratios or grid to correct the proportions. Once you have a satisfactory base, you can continue on to the next step, shaping.

In the shaping stage of design, you can add details to the individual elements of the base. Some models may require significant shaping; others may require minimal shaping. Refold the model multiple times, refining each version until you are pleased with the results. 

Once the shaping details have been fully developed, the final version of the design will be ready to be folded with high quality paper. Complete the piece by adding internal supporting wires, a base, etc.