Kirigami

Kirigami is a variation of origami where the artist is allowed to make small cuts in the paper (from Japanese "kiru" = to cut, "kami" = paper). This enables the artist to enhance the visual presentation of the artwork, at the expense of simplicity. In origami, papercutting is frowned upon by the majority of modern folders, as techniques have advanced enough to make cutting unecessary for a skilled folder.

Kirigami is usually made when certain folds are made in the paper to make a base, or the model without the cuts in it. Then, cuts are made in the base. When all the cuts are made, the base is opened out and flattened to make the finished kirigami. Usually symmetrical objects are made, such as snowflakes, pentagrams, or orchid blossoms.

Kirigami and Origami For Kids

Origami For Kids

Kirigami and Origami are super creative crafts for kids of all ages. Children not only have fun, but they also learn important life skills such as following instructions, increasing manual dexterity, and working to completion on somewhat complex tasks.

Step 1: Preparation - get a good pair of craft scissors, a pencil, colored pencils and wash your hands!

Step 2: Choose a pattern. There are many free patterns available at ScissorCraft.com. If you can't find something to your liking there, or would like to explore other patterns, try these websites:

Dick Blick's Art Materials:

Mister Art:

Yasutomo Fold'ems Origami Paper 5 7/8 in. 6 Jurassic skin patterns pack of 6 with dino instructions

Yasutomo Fold'ems Origami Paper 5 7/8 in. 6 animal patterns pack of 24

Yasutomo Fold'ems Origami Paper 4 5/8 in. 10 chiyogami folk patterns pack of 40

Yasutomo Fold'ems Origami Paper 5 7/8 in. 8 washi folk patterns pack of 16

Step 3: Follow the directions, start folding and cutting, and have fun!

Below are some more great resources for getting your child (and you) started with kirigami and origami.

Here is the best free website I've found for learning Kid's Kirigami/Origami. The site has many Origami projects with step-by-step, picture-based instructions:

Origami Resource Center

Origami Kits & Supplies.....

Basic Paper and supplies for Origami can be found around your home; however, once your child becomes somewhat proficient, they will want something a little more fancy and colorful. Below are some great resources for Kirigami/Origami paper and supplies.