Origami Animals & Critters

Origami is one of the most versatile crafts kids and adults can engage in. It offers the freedom to transform a plain or decorative piece of paper into masterpieces. With more free time on our hands right now, Origami is a great diversion. It allows us to tap into our creativity and express ourselves through the manipulation of folding paper. The art of Origami goes back to 17th century Japan but is appreciated and practiced globally now. Did you know that according to Japanese legends, anyone folding 1000 cranes will be granted a wish? Cranes are also a symbol of hope, peace and healing and that makes them relevant and felicitous right now.

While we love making cranes, there is an abundance of Origami books from Tuttle Publishing that will teach us how to make a variety of Origami animals, bugs, birds, dinosaurs, sea creatures and more. Here are two books and one kit, all focusing on animals and critters, we’ve added to our collection.

The Origami Jungle Kit comes with everything you need to create your own jungle. Included are 96 sheets of authentic patterned and solid origami paper along with an easy-to-follow 32-page instruction booklet. There are enough supplies to make 42 projects for newbies to more experienced folders. Each project is explained with step-by-step, detailed, colorful illustrations so it’s easier to master this art form. Some of the critters you can make include a crocodile, dragonfly, jumping frog, lion, orchid, parrot, toucan and many more. This kit is perfect for home and school and would make an ideal gift for crafters or for those who just love animals.

Once you’ve practiced with your kit material, you’ll want to expand your folding skills and create more Origami animals, birds, and other critters. The Ultimate Book of Origami Animals features 120 different projects. The book is divided into 3 parts and 13 sections.

The onset of the book shares info on paper shapes and sizes, along with a lesson on how to fold the paper and the symbols used for each fold. Each project is ranked according to difficulty from easy to challenging. You will be walked through each animal with numbered and illustrated step-by-step instructions. You’ll notice that some instructions will call for scissors and eyes. Included in this book is a sheet of sticker eyes in various sizes and shapes. Take advantage of these and add them to your animal characters. Start off with an easy project and then let your creativity flow. Some of the animals you can make include a lion, elephant, tiger, panda, flamingo, monkey, swan, chicken, orca, seahorse, Tyrannosaurus and much more. This book is a must-have if you love Origami.

The Origami Animal Sculpture 128-page book is filled with 22 projects for advanced folders. When you have mastered this art and want to make more detailed sculptured animals, this book will enhance your skills and set you apart from the crowd. The book is divided into six sections with several projects each.

Each project is explained with beautiful photos, easy-to-follow illustrated directions, and an instructional DVD that will also walk you through the steps. If you are a visual learner, this will definitely help improve your origami skills. These projects use larger pieces of paper, so you’ll have to check your supplies before attempting them. If you’re ready to stretch your skills and step into some deeper origami sculptures, then you’ll enjoy making the Asian Elephant, Foxy Fox, Adirondack Moose, Butterflies, Lizards and more. It’s a beautiful book that offers lots of interesting critters to create with origami.

Disclaimer: I received complimentary products to facilitate a review. All opinions are my own, yours may differ.