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The art of origami has a long history. And while it’s mainly associated with Japanese culture, the ancient paper craft also has roots in China and Europe. Traditional origami involves folding single sheets of paper into elaborate sculptures without cutting and sticking. While the Chinese crafted boats and boxes, the Japanese often sculpted nature-inspired motifs such as flowers and birds. In Europe, paper-folding evolved from napkin-folding, but eventually moved beyond fancy dinner parties and into schools, where children would create paper art during playtime.
Today, origami continues to be a popular pastime among children and adults alike—particularly for those who want to learn a new craft without investing too much in materials. And with so many great DIY kits available, it’s super easy to create impressive paper sculptures. In this list, we’ve included some of the best paper art projects that come with everything you need, including inspiration, origami paper, and step-by-step instructions. From pretty paper flowers to an elaborate octopus lampshade, you’ll master those complex folds in no time!
Want to learn the ancient art of origami? Check out our list of some of the best DIY kits.
Origami Flowers Kit

Michael G. LaFosse | $15.76
Paper Octopus Lampshade

VasiliLights | $81.36
DIY Kimono Girl Kit

bila | $15.29
“Birds” Papercraft 3D Wall Sculpture

SmagaPaperwood | $38.29
Traditional Japanese Designs

Tuttle Publishing | $6.26
Paper Fish Lampshade

VasiliLights | $70.59
DIY Baby Mobile Kit

MUKUNOKO | $26.37+
Paper Fox Mask

Wintercroft | $17.37
“The Globe Theatre” Architecture Paper Model Kit

PaperLandmarkst | 21.54
Flying Dragons Paper Airplane Kit

Sam Ita and Paul Frasco | $11.92
Paper Ikebana

Benjamin John Coleman | $14.67
Star Wars Origami

Chris Alexander | $12.89
“Hanging Kitten” DIY Paper Art Wall Mount

EcogamiShop | $11.41
Lucky Star Kit

LoveDnAshop | $12.70
Paper Bonsai Kit

Benjamin John Coleman | $14.77
Hokusai Origami Paper

Tuttle Publishing | $6.95
DIY 3D Pen Holder

TheOrigamiFactory | $6.68
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