Origami shrimps, swans, or water bombs may look very complex, but they’re actually a cinch to make. All you need to get started are sheets of paper and origami instructions. Of course, where instructions are concerned, it’s best to get them via video. That way, you won’t just learn what to do, you can see for yourself how to do it!

Now, getting started in the paper-folding hobby can be a tad overwhelming especially if you have never tried making paper-folded figures before. Here are some tips to help you out.

1. Start big — and by big, I mean literally! Use a big square of paper: 8 x 8 inches is a great size.

2. Choose crisp paper. You don’t need to buy anything expensive. Any old but crisp-surfaced paper will do.

3. Learn the basic origami folds. You will encounter all of these folds in your paper-folding projects. These basic folds comprise the techniques that you will be using to make paper sculptures, from the simplest to the most complicated.

4. Start simple. Choose a figure that you can finish in 10 or fewer steps. Keep in mind that the more the steps, the more complex the folding and the instructions.

5. Fold precisely and neatly.

6. Crease sharply. To do this, go over every fold or crease with your thumbnail. Remember, your creases will serve as your guidelines.

7. Read origami instructions carefully. Don’t skip or change the order of the steps.

8. Use paper with different colors on both sides. This lets you separate the back from the front.

Finally, have fun! Remember, if you find origami instructions too tiresome to read, you can choose to watch it instead. Manuals like Easy Origami Videos simplify the process by giving you step-by-step directions via video!

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