How to Make Japanese Paper Dolls with Origami Paper Learn how to make Japanese Paper Dolls with origami paper. These adorable layered geisha girls are the perfect handmade gift tags, bookmarks or even wall art. These are not origami (paper folding with no glue), but use the vibrant shades of origami paper to capture the traditional origami vibe...as a paper doll. History: These little paper dolls are so much fun to make and actually part of Japanese tradition. During the Heian period in Japan, it was a time of peace and that always brings out the Arts. These little paper dolls became popular along side the Mataro doll, or wooden dolls decorated in silks. I'm guessing paper was a little easier to come by for people than silk, making these a popular choice. These are fun to make for special occasions, or as a fun paper craft with a class or older kids, as part of a Historical Arts lesson. Today I am just making these little Japanese girl dolls, although the book I'm using does ha...

Origami Ninja Stars!  Paper folding Ninja Stars is such a fun activity for kids! You will need 2 sheets of Origami Paper Or 2 squares of lightweight paper...  Step 1: Fold sheet in half. Fold each edge into the half line.  Step 2: Fold edges both in. Then fold paper in half. Fold in half the other way.  Step 3: Open the folded piece. Fold the side down at a 45* angle from the center line. Repeat on both sides. Take the top of the ends and fold them down into a triangle.  Step 4: Repeat with the other paper. Fold the final folds opposite direction of the first one. Lay one on top of the other. Fold the triangle ends down and tuck them into the other (there's natural little pockets for tucking)  Repeat on the front and the backside. Then straighten out, final crease and ta da!  Now make a bunch for the perfect Ninja Star fight!  Or try making them out of different materials, like foil! Here's m...