Origami with Fabric

Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding is now increasingly extended to include other materials, foremost among them being fabrics. Use of fabric for Origami has many advantages, as it is very easy to fold and more durable than paper. The basic materials needed for fabric origami, like fabric stiffener, are available at most craft stores. A plastic card for a spreader, and a screen and an iron to impress the folds and refolds are the other tools you will need to make origami with fabrics. You can also use scrap fabrics since some origami require only smaller sized fabric pieces.

Here are some considerations for practicing Origami with fabrics:

Selection Of Fabric

The best fabric for origami would be 100% cotton broadcloth, as it easily produces a crisp crease when stiffened.. Other options would be taffeta and silk that add their own beauty to the finished product. Even metallic threads can be woven on fabrics for a distinct quality. The range of fabrics that can be used is only limited to the convenience of folding and your imagination.

Technique

A simple method to use fabric is to cut a piece of fabric a little larger than the desired size. It is best to practice on paper beforehand to review the exact folds. Apply stiffener and iron to dry the fabric on a screen. Once it is dry, you can decide on the size before finally folding it to make your piece. You can search the internet for more techniques for fabric origami and more detailed and complex designs as well.

Embellishments

With the use embroidery, you can add a new dimension to fabric origami Beading, tassels, gold leaf, and adding extra ornamentation can transform the folded fabric into a piece of art. You can also paint and laminate the finished product to make your personal style statement through it. There are dedicated websites like Embroidery.com and Thread's Embroidery Collection which offer a wide range of embroidery designs to work with.

Utility Value

As far as the utilitarian value of fabric origami is concerned, it is more durable and usable than paper. Origami containers and bags look lovely for storing rice or seed at weddings and also as gift items. Origami can also be used to make an attractive shopping bag! .As a gift item, it is unique. It can also be used on a variety of occasions like Christmas and for functions and events like weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties, receptions etc. Origami pieces make for an ideal gift or a thank you gesture for your friends.

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