How to Make Origami Fun and Functional: 17 Origami Animals, Flowers, & More

There are no limits to what you can create with paper when you let your imagination run wild. With a sheet of paper and some patience, you can craft tiny paper versions of your favorite animals. If you're feeling whimsical, fold an origami dragon to watch over you. The exquisite detail on these paper creatures can be misleading. Though these projects look hard to make, even children can get the hang of these simple origami techniques.

Unlike live plants, origami flower bouquets don't wilt, nor do they drop their petals at the first hint of wind. In the right hands, these homemade paper flowers stay perfectly preserved year after year. Because paper blooms don't require any upkeep, origami flower arrangements make especially great gifts for elderly neighbors and relatives.

Origami can be as useful as it is entertaining. Why spend money on a bookmark when you can make your own adorable origami bookmark in a matter of minutes? Organize your office supplies by crafting an origami box. It's a unique way to keep those errant paper clips in order. Origami can also be used in home décor. You can make precious holders for your tea lights. Learn how to do origami, and you'll have an inexhaustible supply of inexpensive origami ideas to give to family and friends.