In this article you will learn how to understand written origami instructions, called diagrams. You can follow the video below or read the entire article
History of Origami-Diagramming
While many do not realize, the now accepted system of explaining how to fold origami models in printed form is less then 100 years old. It was introduced mainly by Akira Yoshizawa, who lived from 1911 to 2005. This system has changed very little since then and is used by folders all over the world.
How to Read Origami Diagrams
Origami diagrams use lines and arrows, often along with written explanations to explain the folding process. The folding is split up into several steps. In the following you will learn how to read those symbols.
Warnings
- In this article the paper will have a white and a colored (grey) side. Some diagrams won't have this, so don't be confused.
1. Lines
- Edges
are indicated by straight and thick Lines.

- creases
are folds you already made. they're usually indicated by thinner lines that do not touch the edges of the paper. In colored diagrams they often are of a different color (grey).

- X-Ray lines
Edges you can't see in reality are indicated by a doted line "........".

Now in context:

2. Folds
Origami is actually quite simple! There are only two basic kind of folds: mountain folds and vally folds
- vally folds
a fold where your fold the paper so the crease forms a little vally. it is indicated by a dashed line with dashes "-----".

- mountain folds
a fold where your fold the paper so the crease forms a little mountain. it is indicated by a line with dashes and dotes. either "-.-.-" or "-..-..-" lines.

3. Arrows
Arrows indicate movement or actions
- "fold" - arrow
The fold-arrow points along the movement paper. In the first example from the left to the right. The design of the arrow varies heavily. Below some of the most common "fold"-arrows.

Now in context:

- "fold behind" -arrow
- "unfold" - arrow
- "fold and unfold"-arrow
4. Other Symbols
Sometimes there is more to do then folding and unfolding, for that reson there are more symbols.
- turn
A turn is indicated by an winded arrow. The direction of the arrow indicates the direction of the turn

- rotate
rotation is indicated by a circled arrow. You also will encounter Degrees (e.g. 180° instead of 1/2)

Tips
- When reading diagrams , take your time.
- Also look at the pictures before and after your current step.
- Take your skills and the level of the diagram/model into account, you don't want to start with complex designs.
- Don't be afraid of putting a diagram away and trying again another time. It really helps
Want to master Microsoft Excel and take your work-from-home job prospects to the next level? Jump-start your career with our Premium A-to-Z Microsoft Excel Training Bundle from the new Gadget Hacks Shop and get lifetime access to more than 40 hours of Basic to Advanced instruction on functions, formula, tools, and more.
Other worthwhile deals to check out:
- 97% off The Ultimate 2021 White Hat Hacker Certification Bundle
- 98% off The 2021 Accounting Mastery Bootcamp Bundle
- 99% off The 2021 All-in-One Data Scientist Mega Bundle
- 59% off XSplit VCam: Lifetime Subscription (Windows)
- 98% off The 2021 Premium Learn To Code Certification Bundle
- 62% off MindMaster Mind Mapping Software: Perpetual License
- 41% off NetSpot Home Wi-Fi Analyzer: Lifetime Upgrades
Be the First to Comment
Share Your Thoughts