The origins of paper folding is not precisely known. Many origami historian have associated paper folding with the discovery of paper, apparently assuming that with the discovery of paper, it would be used for artistic or ceremonial reasons.

Paper making was believed to have been discovered by a Chinese court official Tsai Lun around AD 100 in China. Prior to this papyrus first discovered by the Egyptians was also used as a writing material but this would not be considered just as we will not consider stones, wood or other materials that does not closely resemble the paper we used today for folding. Thus making the Chinese to be the first to fold paper. The main tradition of Chinese paper folding appears to be found within the tradition of ceremonies, funerals and prayers to the Gods. At the start of the 7th Century, Buddhist monks brought paper made from the mulberry tree to Japan. In Japan during the Heian period (794 - 1185) is when the earliest evidence of paper folding such as the Noshi was found where it was used for ceremonial purposes. The Kamakura period (1185 - 1333), paper continued to be used for ceremonies. 'Modern' origami was believed to have started during the Muromachi period (1333 - 1573). By the Edo period (1603 - 1867), paper folding has become a popular pastime in Japan. The traditional crane was believed to have been created during this period. Around 1850, one of the most famous books mentioning origami, Kan-no-mado was published. Origami continued during the Meiji Period (1868 - 1912) into the Taisho Period (1912 - today). The reorganisation of origami as a creative art in Japan was through the efforts of Isao Honda. Akira Yoshizawa has been the dominating genius for many years. Back to history, the art of paper making spread westwards following the caravan routes. It reached Egypt in the 10th Century and in the 12th Century, the Moors brought paper-making into Spain. The most ancient Spanish model is the Pajarita (sparrow), believe to originate prior to 16th Century. Even after the Moors were expelled in 1492, paper folding survived in Spain, to be revived by Miguel de Unamuno (1864 - 1936). Through the Arab occupation of Sicily, paper making reached Italy, France and the rest of Europe. By the second half of the 14th Century, the use of paper was well established in Europe. The first paper mill in North America was built in 1690.

In Japan where there is a long period of peace and stability, arts and culture was able to develop and origami along with it, and it has become part of the Japanese culture.

(Rated by 3 Council Members)