Origami tools checklist

Origami tools checklist

Origami tools checklist

All you really need to make origami models is paper and your hands (plus love, if you're a Beatles fan) but here are some tools that may enhance your folding experience. You can pick up these tools from most craft or art stores.

Folding tool. A folding tool is a small strip with a rounded edge, a bit like a short chopstick. Traditionally made from bone, now plastic or wooden folding tools are widely available for a few pounds. Use them to really flatten creases. Some folders love them, others are more disdainful, Make up your own mind!

Trimmer. An A3 rotary trimmer is perfect for preparing squares of the right size. Guillotine types are best for large sheets, but can be dangerous. If you decide to buy a trimmer, check that it cuts paper at right angles!

Paper storage. Okay, storage isn't really a tool, but you need some means of storing paper to keep it flat and compact. Many suitable second-hand drawer units are out there, and you can use plastic wallets for smaller squares.

Model storage. When you've made a superb model, you have four main choices about what to do with it. You can give it away (the altruistic option), display it (but most houses only have so much shelf space), throw it away (gasp), or store it. Smaller cardboard boxes that have been used for packaging are usually free from supermarkets. Put tissue paper, scrunched-up newspaper, or even polystyrene worms' in the box and arrange your model inside so it can't move about. The same applies in triplicate when you want to send origami through the post!

Cutting board and knife. The knife isn't for cutting your models, but for preparing odd shaped paper, such as triangles or hexagons. Be very careful when cutting. I foolishly once cut on an old book resting on my knee, only to slide the knife off the end of the book and into my leg. Ouch.

Glue. What? This is origami no glue allowed, surely? Actually, glue is generally considered acceptable to use when preparing a model for display. You want it to stay in place under potentially adverse conditions and glue helps. Some folders use wet-folding techniques with liquid glue when folding intricate designs. The end result is as permanent as can be.

Digital camera. A digital camera is perfect for making rough diagrams, keeping a gallery of your work, or capturing inspiring images from an exhibition. However, be aware that some folders don't allow their work to be photographed of fear of piracy.

Paper clips. At times you'll wish you had extra hands, especially when assembling modular designs. A few well-placed paper clips can be really useful.

Hammer. Sometimes layers of paper simply won't lie flat. You can use a small hammer to encourage the paper to do as it's told. Careful, now!

POST COMMENT

1Y0-A06 preparation 1Y0-A02 free demo Ewing 1200 Mr. Wan salted fish has been difficult for him turning gray label ready FOUR SIMPLE STEPS TO RAKE IN OVER $1000 INTO YOUR LIBERTY RESERVE ACCOUNT 1Y0-456 Practice Questions Swing Your TaylorMade Burner SuperFast Driver Like Tiger Woods 000-004 practice questions Buy cheap hp spare 371790 001 Reasons for Having Yard Art Customized Lanyards Are Currently a Convenient Campus Commodity How One Can Developing A Strong Belief How To Last Longer In Bed Naturally You Can't Force Commitment - Why You Should Give Your Guy Some Space