The Satisfying Math of Folding Origami

Dig into the mathematical rules and patterns of folding origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding.

Dig into the mathematical rules and patterns of folding origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding.

Origami, which literally translates to “folding paper,” is a Japanese practice dating back to at least the 17th century. In origami, a single, traditionally square sheet of paper can be transformed into almost any shape, purely by folding. The same simple concepts yield everything from a paper crane with about 20 steps, to a dragon with over 1,000 steps. Evan Zodl explores the ancient art form.

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