How to teach origami to people with no dexterity or patience
Created | Updated Nov 21, 2005
It can't be done. Give up now.
No, more can be said I suppose. let us put up a banner:
Work in progress
Tips
Look up 'origami rules' on-line. I've seen ten 'rules' somewhere.
Origami Terms, Symbols, and Tips
by Andy and Jeremy
Reference: Pieces 'n Creases - a children's origami site.
Top Ten Tips
- Start big! Use a large square of paper. (8 x 8 inches is a good size).
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Start simple! Select a model with ten or less steps.
Choose a work area that has a large flat, firm surface.
Study all symbols and understand what they mean.
Study the folds that will be used in your model. Look ahead at the result of each fold.
Make all folds neatly and precisely (accurately)!
Crease sharply! Use your thumbnail to go over the crease or fold. Remember these will be your guidelines.-
Read all of the instructions carefully. Then follow each step in the exact order given. No skipping or changing the order of steps.
Use paper that is colored differently on each side. That way you can tell the front from the back.-
Have fun! Remember, practice makes progress. The more you fold, the more progress you will make.
If it doesn't include following add these:
- When making a crease don't crease sharply until it is perfect. While still only roughly folded, use fingertips to 'roll' the paper to the right position.
- When demonstrating to a group, by all means offer them a choice of models, but go by the majority choice - don't try and demonstrate two models at once.
- Stop after every new fold to ensure everyone is keeping up and has adequately grasped the fold.
- With people lacking experience it can help to swap models with them every so often, so that they end up with a passable model that 'they' have made, while you are able to subtly correct any excusable lack of accuracy required for a good model.