

As a paper artist, I am constantly experimenting with new ways to use origami that showcase the essence of Japanese aesthetics. This framed modular origami wall display is a unique and striking way of showing off your paper skills. Modular origami is formed by interlocking simple unit pieces, making it easy for all crafter levels, including children! I am excited to share this DIY tutorial with the Design*Sponge community and I would love to see your interpretation of this project, so if you give this a try, please share photos of your creation on Instagram or Twitter by hashtagging #giantorigami and tell me your story. Hope to see you there! –Coco Sato of Giant Origami

Photography by Emma Gutteridge

DIY Modular Origami 3D Wall Display

What you will need:

-Origami paper or any paper cut into square of single size. (I like to use paper weight range between 120 and 150gsm that is thicker than standard origami paper. I find thicker paper is better suited for modular origami, it firmly secures the interlocks.) In this tutorial, I used about 100 sheets, but you can start with a smaller quantity.)

-PVA glue

-Clear tape

-Cardboard

-A craft knife or scalpel

-A cutting mat

-A paper creaser

-A small container

-A glue brush

-Frame of your choice

The process

1. Cut the cardboard into the suitable size for your frame and with pencil subtly mark the area you wish to fill with origami.

2. Fold modular origami units. For the step-by-step folding instruction, please watch the stop-motion video I created for you below. I folded about 100 sheets for this tutorial, but you can make less or more, as you like!

3. Now let’s start assembling. First you interlock three pieces to create a pyramid. From there, you can interlock each piece to form a hexagon shape formed with six pyramids. Repeat the process until you fill the cardboard surface. During this process, you can experiment with the color combination by simply re-assembling them until you are happy. I find that combining subtly different shades creates a magical effect. Please refer to the stop-motion video below for more details.









4. Now you carefully turn the whole structure upside down. The back of the structure is facing you here. Use clear tape to fasten around the edges, then apply PVA glue. Turn the whole thing upside down again. Be careful not to let it slip during turning process (I did!), otherwise adjust the placement. Wipe any excess or spilt glue with a clean damp cloth, then let the PVA glue dry. Again, the stop-motion video can explain the step well here.







5. Drying time is usually 1-2 hours. By the time you have a cup of tea and cake, it should be good to go. Now you frame it for yourself or give it to someone special!