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Guide to Action Origami
What is Action Origami?
Action origami is a dynamic and engaging branch of the Japanese art of paper folding, where models are designed to move or perform an action when manipulated. Unlike static origami, which focuses on creating stationary figures, action origami brings paper to life through motion, such as flapping wings, jumping, or inflating. These models often captivate folders and viewers alike with their interactive nature, making them especially popular among beginners, children, and those seeking a playful introduction to origami. The goal remains true to traditional origami: transforming a flat square sheet of paper into a functional sculpture using only folds, without cuts or glue. Action origami combines creativity, precision, and a touch of whimsy, offering both educational and recreational value.
Action origami
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Techniques and Characteristics
Action origami models typically rely on specific folding techniques that create tension or flexibility in the paper, enabling movement. Common examples include: 
History of Action Origami (by 100-Year Periods)
- Flapping Bird: Pulling the tail makes the wings flap, using a series of valley and mountain folds to create a hinge-like mechanism.
- Jumping Frog: Pressing and releasing the back causes the frog to leap, utilizing a spring-like fold structure.
- Paper Popper: A folded model that produces a loud “pop” when flicked, relying on trapped air and quick motion.
- Inflatable Models: Such as the waterbomb, which requires blowing air into the model to complete it.
- Pre-1600: The origins of origami, including action origami, are murky due to scarce documentation. Paper folding likely began in China after paper’s invention around 105 CE, spreading to Japan via Buddhist monks by the 6th century. Early folding was ceremonial, but playful, movable models may have existed informally, possibly with cloth or leather before paper. No specific evidence of action origami exists from this period.
- 1600–1700: By the Edo period (1603–1868), paper became more affordable in Japan, allowing origami to spread beyond the elite. The flapping bird, one of the earliest known action origami models, likely emerged during this time. A 1680 poem by Ihara Saikaku references butterfly origami, suggesting recreational folding, including movable models, was culturally ingrained.
- 1700–1800: The first written origami instructions appeared, such as Sembazuru Orikata (1797) by Akisato Rito, focusing on linked cranes but indicating a growing interest in recreational origami. Action models like the flapping bird and simple boats gained popularity as paper became widely available.
- 1800–1900: In the 19th century, origami was influenced by Western folding traditions, including German kindergarten pedagogies introduced to Japan around 1880. Friedrich Froebel’s educational folds, such as the “Folds of Life,” included movable models, inspiring action origami’s development. The term “origami” replaced “orikata” in 1880, formalizing the art.
- 1900–2000: The 20th century saw action origami flourish, driven by Akira Yoshizawa, who popularized the flapping bird and introduced wet-folding for more dynamic forms. Post-World War II, origami gained global traction, with action models like the jumping frog and paper popper becoming staples in educational settings. Robert Lang’s intricate action designs, such as his instrumentalists, pushed boundaries by integrating complex mechanics.
- 2000–Present: Modern action origami benefits from digital tools and global sharing via platforms like YouTube. Designers like Jo Nakashima create accessible tutorials for action models, while innovations in crease patterns and computational origami enhance complexity. Action origami remains a favorite for its engaging, interactive appeal, used in classrooms and STEM education.
- Akira Yoshizawa (1911–2005, Japan): The “father of modern origami,” Yoshizawa popularized the flapping bird and developed wet-folding, enhancing action origami’s fluidity.
- Robert J. Lang (b. 1961, USA): A physicist and origami master, Lang created action models like instrumentalists, where pulling parts triggers hand movements.
- Jo Nakashima (Brazil): A prominent YouTuber known for clear action origami tutorials, including flapping birds and modular designs.
- Tadashi Mori (Japan): A YouTuber and designer whose tutorials feature action models like dragons and flapping birds, with onscreen diagrams.
- Jeremy Shafer (USA): Known for playful action origami, including poppers and flapping models, with books like Origami to Astonish and Amuse.
- Friedrich Froebel (1782–1852, Germany): His kindergarten folds influenced action origami’s educational use, introducing movable models to Japan.
- John Smith (UK): Developed Pureland origami, which includes simple action models, emphasizing accessibility with basic folds.
- Herman Van Goubergen (b. 1961, Belgium): Creates action origami with playful, deceptive designs that challenge conventional folding.
- Satoshi Kamiya (b. 1981, Japan): Known for complex designs, some action models incorporate subtle movements, like his dynamic dragons.
- Sadako Sasaki (1943–1955, Japan): While famous for folding 1,000 cranes, her story inspired action origami’s cultural significance, particularly the flapping crane.
Origami Clubs (Japan, UK, USA, Europe)
- Japan Origami Academic Society (JOAS, Japan)
- Website: https://www.origami.gr.jp/
- Email: Not publicly listed (contact via website form)
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/japanorigami
- Instagram: Not active
- Promotes all origami types, including action origami, with conventions and publications.
- British Origami Society (UK)
- Website: https://www.britishorigami.org/
- Email: Not publicly listed (contact via website)
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/BritishOrigami
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britishorigami/
- A charity hosting conventions where action origami is taught and shared.
- Origami USA (USA)
- Website: https://www.origamiusa.org/
- Email: [email protected]
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/OrigamiUSA
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/origamiusa/
- Organizes conventions and classes, featuring action origami models.
- Origami Deutschland (Germany, Europe)
- Website: https://www.origami-deutschland.de/
- Email: [email protected]
- Twitter: Not active
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/origamideutschland/
- A leading European club with workshops on action origami and more.
- Origami Club (Global, based in Japan)
- Website: https://www.en.origami-club.com/
- Email: Not publicly listed (contact via website)
- Twitter: Not active
- Instagram: Not active
- Offers tutorials and resources for action origami and other styles.
5 YouTube Videos on Action Origami
- 10 Easy but Cool Origami Action Models – Tutorials for interactive models like jumping frogs and flapping birds, ideal for beginners. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r55Pr9Y-hMg)
- Origami Flapping Bird Tutorial – A detailed guide to the classic flapping bird, emphasizing the mechanics of motion. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dLivQ7Su14)
- How to Make an Origami Jumping Frog – Step-by-step instructions for a leaping frog, a staple of action origami. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXQjDR-F5aQ)
- Origami Paper Popper Tutorial – Teaches how to fold a popper that creates a loud sound, showcasing action origami’s playful side. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0s6GHLgY3dY)
- Action Origami: Flapping Dragon – A more advanced action model with moving wings, designed by Jo Nakashima. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5v3M9i2iNg0)
- Materials: Use lightweight, square origami paper (15cm x 15cm) for flexibility. Kami paper (colored one side, white the other) is ideal.
- Start Simple: Begin with models like the flapping bird or jumping frog to master basic folds.
- Follow Tutorials: YouTube channels like Jo Nakashima and Tadashi Mori offer clear, step-by-step guides.
- Practice Precision: Clean, sharp creases are crucial for smooth movement in action origami.
- Experiment: Once comfortable, try designing your own action models by modifying existing patterns.
Action origami is a delightful gateway to the broader world of paper folding, blending art, science, and fun. Its rich history and global community continue to inspire folders of all ages.
Paul (Poison Fish) Manjyu Woodman
