Origami Rings and Wreaths – A Kaleidoscope of 28 Decorative Origami Creations

Kodansha International, 2007, 94 pages, ISBN: 4889962239

Review by Jayne Kerry

Origami, the Japanese art of paper-folding is an ancient and intriguing art form which is now popular worldwide.  This book focuses specifically upon creating rings and wreaths which would inspire many intrepid crafters.  There are instructions for 28 different ways to create rings and wreaths using a number of folded paper shapes; the smallest design uses 8 sections whilst the most intricate uses 16.  Instructions are very clearly set out, appropriately coded using symbols and colour, with good visual support in the form of diagrams and illustrations.  There is plenty of challenge in this book for both the beginner and more experienced paper folder.  Nevertheless, full concentration is required, especially in the early stages of learning and practising a new design, although very satisfying once achieved!

The book includes full colour photographs of every completed design, giving ideas of how co-ordinating and contrasting colours and patterns can work well together.  There are also colour photographs of the front and back of each design in order for crafters to check that they are recreating the designs accurately.

Throughout the book a standard size of paper is given as 7.5cm x 7.5 cm, although paper could be cut larger or smaller, depending upon what the finished ring or wreath is to be used for.  Completed rings and wreaths could be used in a variety of ways, for brooches, greetings cards, calendars, ear-rings, Christmas decorations, wedding invitations and so on; in fact for all occasions or celebrations and can be co-ordinated to suit any colour scheme.