Money Origami - The art of folding paper
Money origami is one form of the ancient Japanese art of folding paper. This tradition was started sometime in the 18th century and was originally started as a way of folding documents of importance in such a way as to prevent unauthorized copies from being made. It has since evolved into very intricate, creative designs that boggle the viewer’s minds. It also makes it difficult to unfold the paper after it is made! The traditional medium that is used is paper, but in money origami it is paper bills that are used. If money origami is something that interests you, there is a wealth of information just a click away on the web. To gather your resources, begin your search by typing in the name of money origami. This will bring up a wealth of websites for your perusal. Some sites will have basic instructions for beginners.
To make money origami, you of course will need paper bills (any denomination will do). The details on how to make different sculptures from money origami will be right on the website. Maybe you want to make an animal such as a crane. Or you might try your hand at making airplanes. The directions will all be on the website. Other ideas for making your own money origami in your own home is: boots, bow tie, butterfly, eyeglasses, fan, gift box, picture frame, ring, serpent, Christmas tree, spider, just to name a few of the many money origami designs you will be able to make.
To make a Valentine money origami - take a bill: Start by folding the bill exactly in half lengthwise two times. Wrap the bill around in a loop, and insert one end into the other end. You want to have about one third of an inch overlap. (About 1 cm for some of you.) Fold as tight as you can in the middle of the overlap. This keeps it from slipping apart. Close the circle and fold at the other end. The fold opposite the overlap will be reversed, but it helps to make the whole thing symmetrical. Reverse the fold opposite the overlap. A small quartering fold at the two tips will help to keep the two points from unfolding. This is a very beginner version of the much more complicated ones you can try after you become more adapt at making these beautiful pieces of art. Once you become more proficient, try making some of the other items!