History of Paper

• The singular tool necessary for creating origami is paper. The invention of paper is attributed to Cai Lun, a Chinese citizen, in 105 A.D., according to the Origami Resource Center. The basic concept of origami involves the folding of paper. A highly prized asset, paper was used only by the wealthy and powerful who could afford to obtain it. Only during the sixth century, once paper reached the shores of Japan, would the foundations of origami begin.
  
  

Origami History

• Origami was created and mastered by religious monks in Japan, more than 500 years after paper was invented. Monks discovered that a basic sheet of paper could transform into 2-D and 3-D shapes with simple and complex methods of physical manipulation. The tradition was passed on via verbal instructions, and arrived in the farthest reaches of Spain by the 12th century.
  
  

Origami Boat Folding

• The basic origami boat requires approximately 15 distinct folds, according to Origami Instructions. A square sheet of paper is necessary to complete the boat. Once created, the paper is transformed into a small 3-D object that can actually float in water. The origami boat is an elementary design and is often an ideal introduction for children interested in learning the craft.
  
  

Origami Boat Origins

• The origami boat was most likely invented in Europe, according to K's Origami. The main piece of evidence to support this claim is the use of 45-degree folds. Origami boats require many 45-degree angle folds. The 45-degree fold and the use of square paper began with European origami. Japanese folding angles, on the other hand, were based on those of 22 1/2 degrees.