TIME WELL SPENT: ORIGAMI

Time hanging out fireside is always #TimeWellSpent…especially if you’re learning something new. Right now, we’re really into the relaxing art of origami. It’s a fun way to unwind at the end of a long weekday and it’s something the whole family can enjoy together.

If you’ve always been intrigued by origami, but weren’t sure how to start, keep on reading for some beginner-friendly tips!

• Buy the right paper! Origami paper comes cut to a standard size, eliminating the need for you to get the ruler and scissors out. Lots of origami paper is also double-sided, with each side featuring a different color or pattern. This not only gives texture and dimension to your creations, it makes it easier to keep track of which side is which when you’re following the instructions. We like this bold, colorful and affordable set.
• Take your time. Read the instructions carefully before you begin, or if you’re following a video tutorial, watch the entire how-to before starting. Don’t be afraid to start over, and to work through each step slowly.
• Create a relaxing atmosphere in your living space by lighting an Every Night firelog. They provide large flames for 2.5 hours, providing plenty of ambiance for an evening of crafting.
• It’s time to start folding! We recommend starting out with a very simple piece like this boat. This straight-forward video tutorial is shot from above so it’s easy to see exactly what’s going on with the paper and has calming music instead of talk-through steps. It’s especially ideal for children or those who are visual learners.
  
  Ready to move on to something a little more challenging? Try this charming frog that hops! The how-to features an overhead filming style and a calming music like the boat tutorial. Just add googly eyes and a hand-drawn smile to give it some personality.
  
  If you’ve created both the boat and the frog and are feeling confident, it’s time to move on to the most famous and traditional origami shape of all: the paper crane. Follow along with verbal instructions as well as the bright and simple visuals to create a graceful bird of your own. Proud of your creation? Punch a small hole in the top of the crane’s head and string some fishing wire of white thread through it, and hang it up in a window!
  
  

Did you make some origami of your own? Tag us on Instagram or Facebook for a chance to be featured!