Genuine Origami: 43 Mathematically-Based Models, From Simple to Complex

by Jun Maekawa

Like his counterpart in the U.S., prominent origami artist and scientist Robert J. Lang, Jun Maekawa approaches origami from the perspective of mathematical and geometric principles. In Genuine Origami , Maekawa takes readers, step-by-step, through the fundamentals of his method, beginning
with the basics and guiding them through simple figures (a mouse, an elephant, Santa Claus) all the way up to such highly sophisticated models as his signature creations, the devil and the peacock.

The 43 different models are grouped into five sections, including one chapter on the ABCs, three which present projects in order of increasing difficulty (Simple, Intermediate and Complex), and one called Varieties of Origami, which reveals how to use different kinds of papers and techniques. In
addition to the folding instructions and diagrams, Maekawa explains the mathematical theory behind each project.

An intriguing blend of art and science, Genuine Origami will allow newcomers to discover the pleasures of folding at the same time that it enables beginners and experts alike to learn clever, surprising and elegant sequences to produce exceptional results.

Genres: Origami, Nonfiction, Reference

160 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2008

Reviews

[Akshar Gupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first origami book. I learned folding using this and Sara Adam's Youtube channel. It is good for all levels of folders and can be used as a primer. But I would recommend checking out books by John Montroll first if you're a complete beginner. It still holds ample challenging material for intermediate and advanced folders.

The distinguishing quality of all the models in this book is that their crease patterns are aesthetically pleasing and the folding sequence "just makes sense". It is as if his model is the most natural way of folding the subject given the complexity at which you want to fold.

The book also talks about a few different techniques which give you a peek into the design process. But rest assured, you're not going to learn how to design origami from this book. For that, you have to look for Lang, Mitani, or Nolan.

[Cliff Landesman · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the richest, most elegant guides to origami ever published. Beautiful models that systematically introduce fundamental concepts.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

My go-to book when I want to review how origami 'works' and how best to explain it to others. Indispensable for folks like me who started folding paper seriously in their 70s.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been working my way through this book. It starts with "fundamental" models and works up through to complex. I've been treating it like a lesson book. The models build on each other. Maekawa has explanations about the techniques and concepts that go into making the models. He also describes different types of origami. I've folded for a while and had purchased books recently with more advanced models. In this book I've found a resource that has helped me build my skills and be able to tackle more models. I'm about 1/2 way through.

While the models have been picked to illustrate concepts, they can also be quite beautiful in their own right. The elephant in the beginning of the book has really grown on me over time because of the clean lines.

[Eszti]

Models range from beginner to very advanced - some of my favourite one's are in this book. The explanations of the models are entertaining, providing some scientific background to the joy of paper folding.

[Micael · Rating 5 out of 5]

is a very good book of origami

[Audrey Teo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Insanely difficult. Do not attempt if you aren't an expert. Just enjoy the pretty pictures

[vonblubba · Rating 4 out of 5]

Modelli molto "geometrici". Esteticamente forse non il massimo, ma molto divertenti da piegare.

[Dana * · Rating 5 out of 5]

fabulous complex incredible gift worthy

[Aaron Sommers · Rating 3 out of 5]

For every culture there’s an industry devoted to fidgeters, and the East is no different. Appealing as it is to the impulsive, divergent thinking population of the world, origami remains an esoteric art form.

I’ve read this book twice and remain inept in my ability to construct anything but what looks like the lost love child of a demented geometric monster and a post-it note...for now I’ll stick with what I’ve known since Middle School: paper planes.