Choosing the Best Size of Origami Paper for Beginners: From 6x6 to 25x25 cm

Origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, requires the correct size of paper to create intricate models. Choosing the best size can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. In this guide, we will discuss the ideal sizes for both non-modular and modular origami, along with advice on where to start.

Ideal Sizes for Origami Paper

The most common sizes for origami paper are 15x15 cm, 220 cm, and 25x25 cm, which are also available in the US as 6x6 inches, 8x8 inches, and 110 inches respectively. These sizes are suitable for non-modular origami, where each piece of paper is folded independently. For modular origami, which involves making multiple identical units that are assembled together, smaller sizes such as 110 cm, 7.5x7.5 cm, and 5x5 cm (or 4x4 inches, 3x3 inches, and 2x2 inches) are recommended. These sizes make it easier to manage the individual pieces and assemble them into complex structures.

Personal Experience

My son initially practiced with a 6-inch (15 cm) square paper. He eventually used A4 paper, which is approximately 205 mm square, but he started with a larger size. After reviewing my original post, my son confirmed that '6-inch straight from the start' is the correct size he used. Andy Wilson also mentioned that some larger models benefit from 200 mm (8-inch) paper.

Starting with Convenient Sizes

It is crucial to start with whatever size is convenient for you. As Patrick pointed out, the most important aspect is to work with squares. An A4 sheet of paper can be easily cut into a square, making it a convenient choice for beginners. Additionally, some origami models can be started from what we call the Silver Rectangle, which is the exact shape of an A4 piece of paper.

Practical Sizes for Beginners

A4 paper or letter-sized paper in the US (approximately 150–250 mm) is a good size to begin with. This size is large enough to handle moderately detailed work without being too cumbersome. It is also affordable, and you can get an almost unlimited supply of it from the waste or recycle bin next to every printer or copier. Once you have some experience, you can move on to buying specialty origami paper in crafting or bookstores. These sheets are usually brightly colored and labeled ORIGAMI. Playing with a few sheets will help you understand which types are best for your needs.

Understanding Origami Paper Quality

Origami sheets are square, not rectangular, and are much thinner than regular printer paper. Origami paper typically weighs around 19 lb, compared to printer paper which ranges from 24–32 lb. It is important to buy origami paper that is perfectly square. Specialty origami paper can be found for around $5 to $15 per package and is essential for achieving the best results in your origami creations.

Happy folding!