A number of origami creations are actually 3D origami figures. To be three-dimensional, origami must, according to the definition from YourDictionary.com, have "depth or thickness in addition to height and width" or have a "lifelike" quality. By both of these definitions, 3D origami is common.
Origami Figures with 3D Qualities
Origami animals are some of the most commonly made 3D figures. While you can find instructions to make two-dimensional or abstract animals, most have a lifelike quality and the ability to stand, sit or even move. The flapping crane is one example of this. In order to create a more realistic 3D animal, origami instructions may create a pocket in which you blow air or push out, creating a three-dimensional figure.
Various shapes are rendered with 3D qualities, too. The lucky star is a small origami shape that can be made with both dollar bills and origami papers. It is possible to turn hearts, regular stars, squares, rectangles and more into 3D shapes.
Gifts, decorations and toys frequently take on a three-dimensional shape. Origami boxes have width, height and depth. Flowers like roses and lilies are usually lifelike 3D figures. Origami boats and jack in the boxes are two toys that are done in three-dimensions.
Most, but not all, modular origami figures are 3D. Make modular origami by putting together several pieces of origami to create a whole figure. View examples of modular 3D origami at PaperCraftCentral.com.
Practice 3D Origami Online
The number of online origami diagrams available makes learning origami in 3D easier than ever. Look for 3D diagrams and figures at these websites:
- Origami Kids: Learn to make a turtle, a duck and even a "banger" noisemaker. Kids can make origami flying wings and flying sheets by watching a 3D animation, too.
- Origami Resource Center: This website offers many links to free origami diagrams online in a number of categories, including action origami, boxes, modular origami and holiday figures. Simply click on the category of your choice and look for a 3D figure.
- Instructables: Do a quick search for 3D or modular origami on Instructables, and results include numerous geometric shapes, ornaments, and animals to create in three-dimensional form.
- Origami - MM's Modular Mania: Challenge yourself by trying to create one the many 3D modular origami figures featured at MM's Modular Mania. Go to the diagram section to find links to diagrams for cubes, intersecting planes and more. These 3D figures are not for novices, so those new to paper folding should begin with simple origami and go on from there.
More Origami 3D Resources
While you can make origami things in 3D using diagrams you find online, it may be more useful to have a reference book at home, especially once you move beyond the simple 3D figures that only use one sheet of paper. These books, available at Amazon, may offer you some guidance for creating three-dimensional or lifelike figures:
- 3D Origami by Boutique-sha Staff
- More and More 3D Origami by Joie Staff
- 3-D Geometric Origami by Rona Gurkewitz and Bennett Arnstein
- Paper in Three Dimensions: Origami, Pop-ups, Sculpture, Baskets, Boxes, and More by Diane V. Maurer-Mathison
- Interlocking and 3D Paper Airplanes by Teong Hin Tan
Origami folding is not limited to paper, nor is 3D origami limited to paper. Towel origami is often three-dimensional, usually when folded into the shape of animals.
Challenge Your Origami Skills
Intermediate and advanced origami folders often have the experience and skills needed to move from simple figures into making 3D origami. By continuing to develop your origami skills through 3D figures, you will never get bored.
