Origami Symbols Key

The origami diagrams used in this book are an efficient, internationally-standardized system of lines and arrows, dots, dashes, and a few other symbols.

Although simple, it is not immediately intuitive, so please invest a few moments to study the key, and refer back to it as needed. Become familiar with the symbols and what they mean. As you watch the video, look at the corresponding diagrams in the book to reinforce your understanding. For efficiency, a diagram may contain more than one instruction, so check carefully for details you might have overlooked at first. If you are unsure of a step, glancing ahead to the next step often reveals the desired shape, and may provide other valuable clues. Rotate the paper for your comfort as you fold it (even though the diagrams will not show the object rotated), and then return it to the position shown in the diagram as you compare the shapes. Once you learn this elegant diagramming system, you will be able to enjoy countless origami books.

Cut

Wire Cutters

Paste

Curl

X-Ray View

Push, or Pull

Repeat

Inside-Reverse Fold

Scale
(Ratio of Paper Size to Bead Size)

Major Color Side

Minor Color Side

Fold in Front		Valley Fold
Fold to the Back		Mountain Fold
Fold and Unfold		Existing Crease

Turn Over
Rotate, Without Turning Over