Origami is one of the oldest paper crafts still in practice. The paper made for this craft is of a similar weight and smoothness as wrapping paper. It creases nicely and holds a crease, obviously. It is normally sold as a 2, 3, 4, 6 or 7 inch square. Other sizes are also available. Originally only in solid colors with a white back, patterned papers, including animal and amphibian, have become available. There are papers resembling stained glass, and really pretty squares with Japanese motifs printed on a small scale so the pattern is still visible once the origami figure is complete. Double-sided paper, with different colors on each side, are usually found in any display of origami paper of any variety. This makes the origami figure more interesting as well.
Origami paper can be used in any craft where wrapping paper can be used, and are good source of strong colors. Origami paper would also be interesting as the last layer of papier mache. I have no experience with the color or pattern running if it gets wet, so decoupage is also a possibility. The patterned paper or alternating elements of different solid colors would make a nice tea-bag folding project. Figures cut from origami paper would be good additions to craft projects. It would also be interesting to create craft paper flowers from this material. Should the blank side be the top or the bottom of the petal?
If you find and purchase a supply of the figured paper, I think you will find them inspirational in your paper crafts.
Go to Wikipedia and search for washi paper for technical details of how this paper is different from wood pulp paper.
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