Origami Glossary

Common terms and words used in the larger origami community. Please do not replicate this list, instead please link to the page. Definitions provided by Eryk Chamberlin.

A4 Rectangle - Rectangle with the ratio of 1:√2. This ratio has a special property: when you fold the paper in half parallel to its shorter sides, the resulting halves also have the same 1:√2 aspect ratio. Read more on Wikipedia.

Action Origami - Origami that can move, such as flapping wings and jumping frogs.

Base - An origami base is a set of preliminary folds from which more complex models are then made.

Blintz Base - A blintz base is made by simply taking all four corners of a square paper and folding them to its center, forming a square that is half the original size and double its thickness.

Crease Pattern (CP) - A diagram showing all the folds required to create a specific origami model, typically displayed as a flat layout.

Crimp - A pair of folds that create a zig-zag pattern, often used to change the direction of a flap or limb.

Kirigami - A variation of origami that includes cutting the paper, whereas traditional origami only involves folding.

Modular Origami - The process of folding multiple identical units or modules and then assembling them without glue into a larger, more complex structure.

Mountain Fold - One of two basic folds (see "Valley Fold), a mountain fold is typically created folding the paper away from you creating a "peak" or "ridge", typically facing up. Every mountain fold is a valley fold on its inverted side.

Pleat - Folding the paper back on itself one or more times in a zig-zag fashion.

Rabbit Ear Fold - A special fold that forms a triangular flap on a corner.

Reverse Fold - A method where the paper is folded along a crease, opened out, and then pushed in the opposite direction.

Raw Edge - An original edge of the square, as such the edge is compose of only one layer.

Silver Rectangle - Silver Rectangle was coined by John Cunliffe referencing the A4 rectangle.

Squash Fold - A special fold where you "squash" or flatten the ridge of an already created flap or pocket, widening and flattening the area.

Tessellation - Origami tessellations involve folding paper to create a complex pattern of repeating geometric shapes that are connected and cover the entire sheet without gaps or overlaps. This technique combines aspects of traditional origami folding with mathematical principles of tessellation, resulting in intricate, often symmetrical designs that look like tiled patterns.

Valley Fold - One of the two basic folds (see "Mountain Fold"), a valley fold is typically created folding a paper away from you creating a "valley. Every valley fold is a mountain fold on its inverted side.

Washi Paper - Washi paper is a traditional Japanese paper made using fibers from the bark of trees such as mulberry, bamboo, hemp, and rice. The word "washi" comes from "wa" meaning Japanese and "shi" meaning paper. This type of paper is known for its strength, durability, absorbency, and light weight, making it highly suitable for various arts and crafts, including origami and calligraphy.

Wet Folding - A technique used to fold thick or heavy paper by slightly dampening it, allowing for more sculptural and curved formations.