OriBlog

Happy Halloween

2007-10-27T22:03:00.000-04:00

I haven't had much time for folding lately, although I have a work in progress. I took some time this weekend to carve a Jack O' Lantern, and this is the result. I decided to take picutres, since the Santa Ana winds will cause it to shrivel and rot within 2 days. The pumpkin is about 25 inches tall, and 18 inches wide. Trick or Treat?

Lazlo Original #53

2007-09-12T23:20:00.001-04:00

Because this is the first post, and also my first new creation since July, I thought it appropriate that I dedicate it to my wife Ashley. Our wedding this summer was the inspiration for the design, and she chose the colors. I am especially fond of the green leaf pieces, and I plan on using the design with other petal combinations. The red petals in this design are simple, but they fit well with the leaves. The model is 5 inches in diameter and is currently on display in my classroom.

Paper Sculpture

2007-07-09T20:28:00.000-04:00

This is my latest paper football unit sculpture, and I'm not sure how to describe it. Assembly was tricky as several units developed tears and had to be replaced. The negative space provides interesting visual effects from all angles. The piece is fairly solid, though I doubt it would survive a feline rampage. The sculpture is about 15 inches tall and required approximately 600 unit pieces that took a little more than a week to complete.

Lazlo Original #52

2007-05-15T00:23:00.000-04:00

This model has served as inspiration for two more designs, in part because of how well the pieces fit. The hearts and petals can be easily manipulated into at least two more distinct variations. This model is 5 inches in diameter and the patterned paper I used for the petals gave them the three-toned finished look. Stay tuned for more variations to come!

Lazlo Original #51

2007-04-08T22:07:00.000-04:00

The petal design for this model is simple, but also a refinement on earlier, similar designs. I'm happy with the yellow and green combination and the assembly produced a solid finished product. The model is 3 inches in diameter and will hopefully find a cat-proof display area in our new apartment.

Lazlo Original #50

2007-04-01T17:54:00.000-04:00

There is an interesting story behind the brown paper I used for the bases of this model. I began the project with the intent of using coral and brown paper and I chose a light brown parchment paper for the bases. As I folded them I discovered the paper was too brittle and it separated at the seams during folding. This left me with a dilemma, as I had no other brown paper and I had already finished the coral petals. The answer came in the form of paper grocery bags in just the right shade of brown. The model is 6 inches in diameter and due to the heavy duty grocery bag paper, is very sturdy.

Lazlo Original #49

2007-03-25T21:10:00.000-04:00

This model took several weeks to finish, mostly because the petals required careful and accurate folds. The blue and red paper work well, even though some of the effect of the white and yellow patterns is lost. Despite the small size, the model is 3 inches in diameter, the paper does not appear over-worked, and the creases all hold their line. Pepper is planning to destroy this model sometime next week... if her schedule allows.

Lazlo Original #48

2007-03-12T23:52:00.000-04:00

This is the second incarnation of this design, created after I abandoned the first. Each unit is three pieces and the two that form the petals are folded almost exactly the same. I considered several color options but was most pleased by the blue and white. The model is three inches in diameter and was good fun folding.

Lazlo Original #47

2007-02-10T16:58:00.000-05:00

I continue to find new variations of this design that are in some way pleasing to me. I particularly enjoy the curve of the petals and the contrast between the bluish centers and the speckled green bases. The complex design of the center pieces marks a distinct progression from the more simple earlier creations in this series. The model is 3 inches in diameter and has already survived multiple Pepper attacks unscathed.

Lazlo Original #46

2007-01-28T01:06:00.000-05:00

I took a break from some long-term projects to fold this design and create a new post, as I have neglected to do so for some time. The picture was taken on a new digital camera, and I am still learning its intricacies, but it is a good representation of the model. The model is 3 inches in diameter and was simple to fold. I wanted the two-colored petals to match the bases as I had planned for the back side of the paper to show through. This created the green striped effect on the leaves.

Lazlo Original #45

2006-11-12T20:31:00.000-05:00

I enjoy the small glimpses of white paper that show through the seams of the purple petals, as they give a somewhat un-natural form a slightly more natural appearance. The project took longer than normal to complete, more than two weeks, mostly due to lack of motivation. I struggled with the design from the start, settling on colors that required I work small due to limited paper supplies. The center petals, though simple, proved fustrating as evidenced by the over-creasing that is apparent. The model is 2.5 inches in diameter and now that it is complete, I am considering a different approach for my next project.

Lazlo Original #44

2006-10-29T14:08:00.000-05:00

The petal pieces in this variation are simple, but effective visually as the curls at the tips of the petals give them a more natural shape. The design hides some of the more difficult folds allowing for smaller and neater construction. The piece is 2.5 inches in diameter and the orange petals stand out distinctly against the blue bases that are darker than they appear in the photo.

Lazlo Original #43

2006-10-16T19:45:00.000-04:00

The white colored petals in this model were difficult to fold, something I anticipated before I began the piece. For this reason I used heavier than normal paper to ensure a solid and pleasant looking finished product. I considered the possibility that I might not re-create this design any time soon, so I chose simple colors that would work well together. The model is 4.5 inches in diameter, slighter larger than previous designs, also due to the difficultly of the petals. Pepper's enthusiasm for destroying things may force me to find a new home for this model as we are short on cat-proof display areas.

Lazlo Original #42

2006-10-08T13:02:00.000-04:00

I rarely use grey colored paper for folding, but I think it worked well with the purple in this model. The piece is two and a half inches in diameter, and after folding over 600 paper cranes, was a welcome return to a different approach to paperfolding. Hopefully posting will be more frequent, at least until another monstrously large modular idea consumes me. For now a few more variations on my favorite design should satisfy anyone who has been waiting anxiously for new posts.

Completed Bird Project

2006-09-30T15:02:00.000-04:00

After several years of sporadic work, and continued focus for the last three months I have finally completed the bird project. The piece is comprised of 1000 paper cranes, each smaller than a quarter. The dimensions are roughly 32" x 14" and includes 31 columns, each containing 32 cranes. Quick arithmetic will reveal only 992 cranes, hence the need for eight more hanging above the piece. The project was conceived as a tribute to the crane and its acquired status as a symbol of peace. The project is also a tribute to an old Japanese legend which said that anyone who folds a thousand paper cranes would be granted a wish. I have read many versions of a story about a young Japanese girl named Sadako Sasaki, dying from cancer after the bomb dropped on Hiroshima. She began folding cranes, hoping that her wish for recovery would be granted. She succumbed to her illness but her inspiration has touched millions and she has become an icon in the Peace Community. For more information on the Crane and its symbolic meanings visit the Thousand Cranes Peace Network homepage.

Magic Rose Cube

2006-07-22T18:33:00.000-04:00

The Magic Rose Cube, by Valerie Vann is one of the finest modular origami creations I have had the pleasure to fold. The pieces are simple and their connection is genius. The finished model transforms from a bi-colored cube into the rose pictured above. The design works best with stiff paper, and requires care when coaxing the transformation, however when folded carefully it seems to change very naturally. Definitely fun to fold, and well worth the cost of the instructional video.

Bird Delay

2006-07-18T18:07:00.000-04:00

My recent lack of new material to post can be attributed to a long term project that I unshelved recently. I began this project well over a year ago and the two piles pictured above represent less than 2/3rds of the total number of Birds required for the finished design. Though small, the cranes are not difficult to fold and with the end in sight, I will pursue this project to its conclusion. That may mean a few more weeks without a new Lazlo Original to unveil, but so be it. I will try and make up for it with a couple of posts containing links or interesting information. For now visit www.origamiboulder.com for some laughs, the "Letters from dumb dumbs" page is hilarious, and experience the genius of a famous Internet Artist.

Lazlo Original #41

2006-06-21T21:53:00.000-04:00

This is another one of those models that almost became a sacrifice to the wastebasket, and not because of any fault in the design. The center pieces are simple, and easy to fold, relying on pre-creasing until the final form snaps into place. The paper I used for the model was too lightweight, causing the frustration that nearly destroyed piece. The model is approximately 3 inches in diameter and from a distance, the pink centers seem to glow on the blue background. I think close up it loses that effect.

Lazlo Original #40

2006-06-10T23:55:00.000-04:00

Ashley chose the colors for this model, mint green for the center pieces and a slightly darker, not-quite pine color for the bases. The center pieces are very simple, and I completed the whole model in three days. Apparently none of my estimates for sizes of these models are accurate, so I'm going to stop guessing. Ashley measured with a ruler and this model is 4 inches in diameter. I will go back and make adjustments on previous posts to correct any errors.

Lazlo Original #39

2006-06-07T20:42:00.000-04:00

A new twist in this variation came about by a slight modification of the base unit, allowing 2-colored bases. I had already finished the design of the center pieces, and had begun folding the necessary pieces when I got the inspiration to modify the previously unchanging base units. Though I wouldn't use the modified base for every model, it works well for this one. The model is approximately 2 inches in diameter and much more purple than blue.

Lazlo Original #38

2006-05-29T11:39:00.000-04:00

I very much dislike the photo of this model, which is strange because I'm very happy with the model itself. It is without a doubt the smallest version of these designs that I have successfully completed. Roughly 1.5 inches in diameter, folding the pieces frustrated me to no end. Originally I began with 2-inch square paper, and would have produced an even smaller model, only I was unable to finish the pieces and had to restart with 3-inch squares. I'm not sure what it is about the picture, but I enjoy the model more in person.

Lazlo Original #37

2006-05-15T21:43:00.000-04:00

The two-colored red/yellow paper was well suited for this model which reminds me of an explosion. The yellow leaps off the red when viewed from a distance and the red bases match closely with the red on the centers. The center pieces were difficult to fold, especially considering the size, which is approximately 2.5 inches in diameter.

Lazlo Original #36

2006-04-30T22:03:00.000-04:00

In this return to a 3-piece construction, the red center pieces are the same as the centers used in #30. The white middle pieces are easy to fold, and are a nice compliment to the centers, although the color combination I chose for this model could have been better. Unlike many of my other creations that require a close-up veiwing, I actually prefer this model from a distance as the colors make more sense.

Lazlo Original #35

2006-04-16T19:14:00.000-04:00

The paper I used for this model has a metallic look, but it actually has more of a plastic surface and texture. The color of the paper changes in different lights giving a interesting visual effect. The model is small, less than 3 inches in diameter and has already caught the attention of all three of our cats.

Lazlo Original #34

2006-04-04T21:22:00.000-04:00

The center pieces of this model remind me of a compass rose and they fit snugly into the bases forming a solid finished piece. The bases have a pinkish hue that is lost in the picture and the centers are more magenta than purple. I experimented with a different size this time and the finished model is approximately 4 inches in diameter.

Lazlo Original #33

2006-03-26T19:04:00.000-05:00

This model was relatively easy to fold, but for some reason took twice as long as normal to finish. I guess I was just being lazy. I'm happy with the result, especially the colors, but the center pieces did not hold their form well during assembly. Heavier weight paper would have served the design better. All in all a fun project despite the time lag, and very interesting visually.

Lazlo Original #32

2006-03-02T22:51:00.000-05:00

Once again I started too small causing a bit of frustration folding the centers pieces, but I am happy with the finished look. The alternating petal sizes were more visible on the larger version I designed originally. Folding aside, the model assembled easily and the shades of blue compliment each other nicely.

Lazlo Original #31

2006-02-21T20:08:00.000-05:00

The pitch-forked center pieces were frustrating to fold for such a small model (less than 2 inches). The design is fairly simple, and a larger model would have been a better way to go. The colors work nicely together and are more distinct than the photo reveals. The pointed centers give the model a star quality, and I'm jealous of the model hanging in Ashley's car (Original #24), so I think I will hang this one in mine.

Lazlo Original #30

2006-02-12T22:34:00.000-05:00

This simple design was fun to fold and took very little time to make. The model is approximately three inches in diameter and is very solid. The center pieces almost folded themselves and I completed the entire model in two days. All in all, a pleasure to fold.

Lazlo Original #29

2006-02-08T19:14:00.000-05:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!! (I know, its not until next week, but who could wait?) And a special thank you to Mike and Sally Shaw for the fantastic paper!

Lazlo Original #28

2006-01-29T17:19:00.000-05:00

I nearly abandoned this 3-piece variation when it was in the development phase, but was encouraged to pursue the design further. Im pleased with the final result and the 2-colored middle pieces give the piece an interesting visual effect as it spins. The model is approximately 3 inches in diameter, and though very difficult to assemble, is extremely solid.

Lazlo Original #27

2006-01-15T16:27:00.000-05:00

The center and middle units of this 3-piece design are considerably more detailed than previous versions and took more time than normal to fold. The yellow and red seem to jump out from the green base, though not so much in the photo. The bright, almost neon yellow seems faded in the picture and the dark red is somewhat lost as well. Despite the extra time folding, the model assembled easily and yielded a solid final product.

Lazlo Original #26

2006-01-06T16:56:00.000-05:00

As promised, this design utilizes the middle piece from the previous model, this time with more intricate petals. The three shades of orange are not readily apparent in the photo, and more distinct on the actual model. The piece is very solid, about 3 inches in diameter, and held together well during assembly. Though 3-piece assemblies require more folding and time, the possibilities for expanding and creating more unique and exciting designs are limitless.

Lazlo Original #25

2005-12-30T18:02:00.000-05:00

The neon colors in this piece seem somewhat faded in the picture and are more vibrant than they appear. This is another 3-piece design, and I really like the shape of the orange/red petals. I am currently designing another variation with this part included, and it may re-appear in future designs. The center piece is very simple, and was a last minute addition.

Lazlo Original #24

2005-12-16T17:20:00.000-05:00

The most important thing I achieved with this model was creating 8 equal petals for the center pieces. This is another 2-piece variation, and the model is approximately 2 1/2 inches in diameter. The design is solid, and the units easy to fold, though tedious. Its final destination will be hanging in Ashley's car, from the rearview mirror.

Lazlo Original #23

2005-12-08T19:52:00.000-05:00

This variation is a return to 2-piece units, despite the 3-color scheme. I used 2-colored paper for the centers, attempting to imitate a sunflower, one of Ashley's favorites. The pieces are easy to fold, and assemble into a very solid form. This model is approximately 3 inches in diameter, and due to a lack of cat-proof display areas at home, will probably also become part of Ashley's classroom gallery.

Lazlo Original #22

2005-12-02T22:34:00.000-05:00

This 3-piece variation is similar to #21, except for the center petals. The model is approximately 4 inches in diameter, and is very solid. The black shells produce an interesting visual effect, especially when viewed from a distance. It will certainly make a nice addition to Ashley's classroom collection.

Lazlo Original #21

2005-11-25T16:55:00.000-05:00

This 3-piece design resulted in a model with much sharper angles than previous versions, and the individual parts were easy to fold. I gambled with multi-colored paper and was pleased with the finished product, though the colors weren't as I had planned. I considered curling the center petals, but opted for the more angular and symmetrical look. When the light hits it just right, it looks stunning.

Lazlo Original #20

2005-11-18T17:27:00.000-05:00

I was asked by a friend to design a Christmas gift for his mother and this new design is the result. In a departure from previous versions where each flower comprised two separate pieces, each unit of this design contains three pieces. The model is extremely solid, and approximately 4 inches in diameter, and will hopefully survive the trip to the U.P. intact.

Lazlo Original #19

2005-11-13T18:22:00.000-05:00

I created this model based on Ashley's color suggestions and with a classroom display in mind. The petals are challenging to fold neatly, and require careful attention. The assembly was tricky, and I used glue to make the process go more smoothly. I used normal weight paper, as origami paper yielded a sloppier, over-creased appearance.

Lazlo Original #18

2005-10-31T16:26:00.000-05:00

The center pieces in this model are similar in appearance to #11, so I attempted to make the colors drastically different from the dark purple and red of the previous model. I wanted the blue centers to stand out distinctly from the bases and I was pleased with the result. The finished piece is approximately the size of a tennis ball though the design will allow many variations in size.

Lazlo Original #17

2005-10-26T16:13:00.000-04:00

When I first got the idea for the design of these center units I was extremely pleased with the shape and the form. I especially enjoyed the two-color effect and I experimented with several different options for this presentation. I decided to use metallic foil paper for this piece, and I am unhappy with the decision for several reasons. The metallic paper is extremely delicate, and therefore frustrating to fold. The paper buckled and lost shape as I assembled the piece and as a result the centers did not hold the sharp form that previous versions had. I nearly trashed the project several times during assembly, but cringed at the idea of starting over. When I make this again I will certainly avoid using foil paper.

Lazlo Original #16

2005-10-21T01:06:00.000-04:00

The angular center pieces in this variation allowed the base color to show through more than previous versions. The model is solid, and overall was an easy piece to fold. It gives different visual impressions when viewed from different angles and an even more interesting effect when using 2-colored paper.

Lazlo Original #15

2005-10-16T19:56:00.000-04:00

In this variation, the center piece is more compact, and smaller, which yielded a rigid construction. The folding was not overly difficult, though the assembly required some care to avoid crushing the form. Once the center pieces were coaxed into their proper place the model became solid. This is the latest piece to go on display in Ashley's 7th grade science classroom.

Lazlo Original #14

2005-10-12T18:55:00.000-04:00

This is yet another variation in a series that all utilize the same base or shell unit. I was pleased with the texture and shape of the center pieces, although they were quite difficult to fold. I used slightly heavier paper, which yeilded a solid final piece, but caused serious finger fatigue during the folding stage.

Lazlo Original #13

2005-10-08T22:28:00.000-04:00

This model was a pleasure to fold. The petal piece fit perfectly into the base and the final construction is extremely solid. The petals require careful folding, but hold their shape well during assembly. Depending on paper choice the model can have two or three colors. I found the three color effect most striking.

Lazlo Original #12

2005-10-02T15:50:00.000-04:00

In this variation, the paper really complimented the design as the petals and base change color. The shell units were intended to be white, but the pink color on the back of the paper showed through. The pieces are relatively simple to fold and I enjoy the way the petals stand out from the shells.

Lazlo Original #11

2005-09-26T22:24:00.000-04:00

In this variation, the flower centers required extremely delicate folding and were quite time-consuming. The visual efffect paid off though, and Im very pleased with the result. This model is approximately three inches in diameter and Im certain a larger version would have been easier to fold.

Paper Football Two

2005-08-25T20:39:00.000-04:00

This model is comprised of over 1,000 pieces and I spent nearly two months folding them all. I opted for a different pattern this time and made pieces less than half the size of the previous paper football piece. Its almost as visually interesting on the inside as on the outside.

Lazlo Original #10

2005-08-07T20:03:00.000-04:00

This is another variation of #9, with curled petals and solid colored paper. The white backed paper had a negative visual effect on this variation so I went with a very flimsy alternative that proved frustrating during assembly. The color pairings were successful and the curled petals appear as an outer shell, floating above the base of the project. It should look nice on Ashley's desk and at least provide a distraction for her students.

Lazlo Original #9

2005-07-31T16:08:00.000-04:00

The longer petals on this design were achieved using a slightly modified variation of the petal design on #6. The petals require a little more folding, but are easier to join with the base. The white backed paper provides the lines on the petals, an unexpected but welcome suprise.

Lazlo Original #8

2005-06-12T22:53:00.000-04:00

I created this model this weekend during a few spare moments, and I'm very pleased with the way it finished. The metallic paper was difficult to work with, as always, but it gives it a sharp look. The petals that surround the peaks were a surprise and a unique feature of the unit. The individual pieces can create models of varying sizes much like Sonobe units. This model has 30 units, and will hold together without glue, but I don't recommend it unless you use extremely thick paper.

Lazlo Un-Original

2005-05-24T20:58:00.000-04:00

I was messing around the other night, randomly folding paper, and I came up with this unit. Afterwards, I found diagrams online, but haven't figured out who the designer was. It's such a simple piece, I knew someone had to have discovered it before I randomly created one. It's very similar to a Sonobe unit, only inverted, and folded differently. It was very simple to fold, but requires precision to hold together without glue.

Cube Snake

2005-05-20T06:08:00.000-04:00

For lack of a better name, I am calling this a Cube Snake. The model utilizes the Cube design by Bennett Arnstein, published in MODULAR ORIGAMI POLYHEDRA by Simon, Arnstein, and Gurkewitz (Dover Publications, Inc.). The snake is close to three feet long, and is very flexible, allowing several different display options. The paper I chose was heavier than the paper used in the Cube Ring, and was much easier to assemble. The trickiest part of this model was keeping track of the different sized cubes and their sequencing.

Cube Ring

2005-05-08T23:43:00.000-04:00

I made this Ring of Cubes using the Cube design by Bennett Arnstein, published in MODULAR ORIGAMI POLYHEDRA by Simon, Arnstein, and Gurkewitz (Dover Publications, Inc.). There were no instructions for connecting the cubes into a ring, but the book cover gave me the inspiration. The ring is about 20 inches in diameter. The cubes are fascinating because they are extremely solid despite very simple units and in this case, super-flimsy paper. The tricky part is connecting the cubes, especially the last two links which form the circle. I can offer no good advice, other than patience, during assembly. Glue is not necessary for the individual cubes, but to join them, I strongly recommend using it.

RIP -- Sanchez' Dragon

2005-05-03T06:26:00.000-04:00

NOTE -- Sanchez' Dragon recently met with an unfortunate end, and has made the final journey to the great recycling bin in the sky. -- I took a break from a large project to fold this dragon, from diagrams that I found at the Asociacion Espanola de Papiroflexia website. The author is Francisco Ramon Navarro Sanchez and it is a wonderful design. Pay careful attention to the proportions of the paper before starting and don't be intimidated if you don't understand Spanish. The drawings are more than adequate. I had to use glue to attach all the pieces.

Lazlo Original #7

2005-04-11T23:16:00.000-04:00

This Kusudama is another of my original models, part of a set of three that utilize a variation of the same design. This is by far my favorite original design to date. With the right paper this model can justifiably be called a true work of art. OK, now I'm bragging, but I was definitely excited when I created this design and it has become the centerpiece of my gallery. I have made variations out of metallic paper as well as other patterned paper, all with equally stunning results.

Pluto

2005-04-11T23:15:00.000-04:00

As near as I can tell, this model was designed by Makoto Yamaguchi, and published in KUSUDAMA BALL ORIGAMI (SHUFUNOTOMO/JAPAN PUBLICATIONS). The units are very simple to fold and can be modified slightly to produce a more spherical shape. This model is a great place to start for anyone interested in learning to make kusudama.

Lazlo Original #6

2005-04-11T23:14:00.000-04:00

This Kusudama is another of my original models, part of a set of three that utilize a variation of the same design. Obviously the notion of a "flower-ball" is being stretched in the model, but functionally it works. I considered curling the propeller-like petals, but in the end I thought they made more of a visual impact without curls. The final product has an unfinished look that almost seems like I set it down too early.

Kusudama Imposter

2005-04-11T23:13:00.000-04:00

On the surface this would appear to be a normal kusudama, flowers and all. In actuality it requires glue instead of string, so I call it an imposter. This model was designed by Makoto Yamaguchi, and published in KUSUDAMA BALL ORIGAMI (SHUFUNOTOMO/JAPAN PUBLICATIONS). Each individual petal is a separate unit, with five units to a flower. I enjoy this model because of all the possible color variations, but I must warn any aspiring folders: be sure and use paper that is of consistent weight. Variations in paper-stock will result in mal-formed flowers that do not join properly as a whole.

Lazlo Original #5

2005-04-11T23:12:00.000-04:00

I love the geometry of this design. The crisp edge lines give it added visual effect that I couldn't have imagined until after I finished the first model of its kind. The idea sprang from an earlier design and the simplicity and function are very closely related to its origin. The unit can also be modified slightly producing the same shape without the windows.

Bouquet of Primula (double flowers)

2005-04-11T23:11:00.000-04:00

Tomoko Fuse is a master of modular origami and her books have been more than an inspiration to me. This model was published in KUSUDAMA ORIGAMI (JAPAN PUBLICATIONS TRADING COMPANY). Her books contain some of the most wonderful modular origami creations I've come across. This design requires extremely delicate folding, as well as a healthy dose of patience.

Super-Sonobe

2005-04-11T23:10:00.000-04:00

This model uses the traditional Sonobe unit and its assembly stretched the limits of my knowledge of geometry. 300 individual units connect without glue and form a sphere not dissimilar to a soccer ball (except, obviously it is not round, but the geometry is similar). I would suggest becoming extremely familiar with Sonobe units before attempting a project of this size.

Lazlo Original #4

2005-04-11T23:09:00.000-04:00

This Kusudama is another of my original models, part of a set of three that utilize a variation of the same design. Each unit is comprised of two parts which together form a single unit that looks like a paper flower. Hence the translation of kusudama: flower-ball. Kusudama were originally used to hold medicinal herbs for aroma therapy and for potpourri.

Sea Urchin (long pistils)

2005-04-11T23:08:00.000-04:00

Tomoko Fuse is a master of modular origami and her books have been more than an inspiration to me. This model was published in KUSUDAMA ORIGAMI (JAPAN PUBLICATIONS TRADING COMPANY). The main aspect of Kusudama which differentiates from standard modular origami is the method which joins the individual units into a whole. Kusudama units are folded from paper, and then sewn together with a needle and thread. This allows a significant freedom in design, because symmetry, and the necessary interlocking tabs, become irrelevant. The result are hanging models, like this popular creation, that dazzle the eye.

Lazlo Original #3

2005-04-11T23:07:00.000-04:00

This model is special for me because it was my first truly original design. The units and the assembly process inspired and allowed me to create several other original designs. The methods I used to create the interlocking portions of the units were the real success. I used the same formula to create several original models subsequently, and this plain design gave birth to some of my more visually stimulating creations.

Crystal

2005-04-11T23:06:00.000-04:00

This popular design has appeared in many publications, and is very simple to fold and assemble. The units interlock amazingly well and the final product is solid enough to allow for any number of display options. This is the model that first attracted me to modular origami and encouraged my transition from a casual paperfolding wannabe to modular aficionado. I highly recommend any aspiring folding artists seek out diagrams for this model and try it out. Its a lot of fun without the assembly frustration that plagues so many modular designs.

Pointed Star

2005-04-11T23:05:00.000-04:00

This design uses the same geometric pattern and assembly principles as the Sonobe Unit and its derivative models. When I found diagrams for this model, I had been searching for some time and had only found units which required guesswork and estimation, leading to poorly constructed models which rarely stayed whole on display. This unit was the exception and hence became another of my favorites.

Hail to the Victors Valient!

2005-04-11T23:04:00.000-04:00

I take no credit for the design of this model, only the color choices. This model was designed by Makoto Yamaguchi, and published in KUSUDAMA BALL ORIGAMI (SHUFUNOTOMO/JAPAN PUBLICATIONS). I thought my paperfolding gallery could use a little maize and blue, and this project afforded me the oppurtunity. Watch out for Big Blue in 2005, beat those Bucks!!!

Lazlo Original #2

2005-04-11T23:03:00.000-04:00

This model requires both precision folding and limitless patience during assembly. That aside, it is one of my favorite original designs. During folding the units don't take their final shape until the very end, which makes the process more exciting. If the units are made correctly, the result is very rewarding. The model in the photo is made from origami paper, but a heavier weight paper produces a far more solid final product that stays together without glue.

Lazlo Original #1

2005-04-11T23:02:00.000-04:00

The best results I've had with this model utilized paper that was nearly card-stock. Assembly was difficult, especially on the first few models I produced. Once I successfully coaxed the units together, the final product was relatively sturdy, but keeping the units together during assembly was extraordinarily frustrating. I'm hoping to publish this design eventually, but alas my drawing skills (or lack of) prevent me from sharing diagrams for this model at the moment.

Paper Football Unit

2005-04-11T23:01:00.000-04:00

This model utilizes a traditional modular unit which closely resembles the paper footballs that entertained so many wasted hours in grade school. This unit is a great place to start for any folder interested in modular work. The individual units are simple and take very little time to complete, but hundreds are required for a model this size, so it can be quite time consuming. The real fun is choosing the paper color and creating patterns during assembly. Glue is not necessary, but I've found it allows for a much more solid final product.

Paper Umbrellas

2005-04-11T23:00:00.000-04:00

I got the idea for this design from a combination of sources. I had seen other paper umbrellas, but hadn't come across diagrams. The main inspiration for this project came from a design I found for a paper desk lamp. I used the design of the lampshade, and modified it slightly to produce these working umbrellas. The design requires fairly sturdy paper to maintain its form, but there is no limits to the size. I have successfully made miniature as well as life-size versions. Normally I avoid using scissors and glue when possible, but in this case the final result justified the means.

Introduction

2005-02-11T16:21:00.000-05:00

I plan to use this site to post photos of some of the things I have folded, and hopefully generate constructive criticism. Some of the models are originals, and have not been diagrammed, but I would gladly point any seekers in the direction of diagrams for published designs. I plan to publish my original creations at some point, so for those you'll have to wait. Please let me know what you think of my work. I also welcome links to paperfolding websites, and I will selectively post links to sites which I think are deserving. Any other discussion of paperfolding in general is greatly appreciated.

Peace.
Lazlo