Origami is the Japanese art of folding paper into shapes representing objects and life forms. The word comes from the Japanese words "ori", meaning folding, and "kami", meaning paper. Although almost always associated with Japan, some historians say that the art actually started in China in the first or second century before ultimately spreading to Japan.

At first origami was confined to the rich, but as easier papermaking methods were developed and paper became less expensive, it became popular for everyone. Although primarily seen as an art form, this tutorial will also explore the therapeutic value of origami.

The project we are going to tackle is the popular and practical Origami Snowball.

While not the traditional origami medium, Xerox 20 lb. Bright Commercial grade is a good choice for the beginner. The blue-white shade provides a high brightness, which is ideal for an origami snowball. The acid-free paper will provide longetivity.

Lay the paper out on a smooth, flat surface. Try to visualize the pattern of folds. Get a 'feel' for the form and shape. I like to mentally bridge together the visual elements that will make up the finished paper sculpture.

The grain of the paper, although quite subtle, can lend itself to the overall appearance of the finished product, but probably the most important consideration in creating an organic form is 'shape'. Although real snowballs are man-made using natural material, each snowball is unique in it's shape. Re-creating that uniqueness takes vision and careful planning.

The layout to the left, if followed roughly, is one that will create an asymmetrical, natural looking snowball.

The first few folds are the most critical. Overall balance of the finished work will be determined by these initial folds.

Roughly fold over at points A-A, while folding under at points B-B. Your project should resemble the example to the left.

Fold up at points C-C, then back at D-D.

Fold points F-F away from the mass of the sculpture, then fold under at points G-G.

Contrast is a juxtaposition of opposing elements such as color, texture, and tone, and can be a critical aspect of design.

Although we are working with a monochromatic medium, contrast can be created by strategic folds in the paper. The depth of the cavity created by a fold can create the shadows needed to provide effective contrast.

To access some of the fold lines it may be necessary from time to time to partially unfold previous folds in order to access the remaining ones.

Feel free to take creative liberty with the remaining folds, but the following sequence should guarantee a successfull result:

Fold over at H-H, fold I-I to meet the exposed H. Fold K-K inward to meet Y, then fold J-J under P-Q, and G-Z to meet U. At this point, V will be exposed. Fold V-W under towards M, point 4 to meet T, and 5 to meet X. Manipulate crease Y-L to match up opposite S-V. Fold N-H toward F, then G-Z-G to form a triangle. N-O-E should be indented slightly, as should R-V-S. Some minor adjustments may be required to bring points 2, M, and U into the same circumferential plane.

Paper has a relatively high tensile strength, nevertheless, you should take care not to induce tears. Tears will distract from the visual continuity of the artwork. Creasing can induce fatigue in the material, so tears are more likely to appear along the folds.

Continue folding. With each fold you should be gradually reducing the overall volume of the shape, while at the same time, paying attention to the symmetry of the object. A common technique is to apply a rolling motion between the palms of the hand.

Origami "Therapy"

As mentioned earlier in this tutorial, there can be a therapeutic value in the art of origami.

Once you have established the overall shape you can begin to aggressively apply pressure and random folds to your project. Along with the aggressive application of pressure, I find it helpful to recite a mantra, (grrr works for me), or visualize an obnoxious co-worker. Some of the greatest works of art were conceived during moments of high emotion and passion.

Here it is - the Origami Snowball!

Using only a single sheet of ordinary Xerox paper, the artist has managed to capture the balance, texture, symmetry, and natural beauty of a real snowball.

While the aesthetic value cannot be discounted, there is a functional aspect as well. The tight folds contribute to an increase in density (mass/volume ratio), and aerodynamic property over the initial two-dimensional shape of the paper. This lends the project to it's use as a projectile. Upon impacting a solid surface, such as a co-worker, the numerous folds are flexible enough to absorb some of the kinetic energy, therefore preventing damage to the artwork. Density and kinetic energy can be increased through the encapsulation of staples, paper clips, and other office supplies, but this may increase the risk of damage to the snowball.

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Coming soon - How to make an origami polyvinyl-acetate molecule!