Better Living Through Origami

Starred review from November 15, 2018
Never, ever underestimate the magic that innovative designers can bring to a centuries-old craft. Kudos go to van den Baard and Veenenbos, the Dutch husband-and-wife behind Studio Snowpuppe, who have transformed plain paper and origami techniques into elegant, pleated objets de la maison. Their great concept is only the beginning; several of the 20 patterns included here emulate Issey Miyake clothing or the simplicity of Isamu Noguchi home items. The authors' introduction shares guidance for methods, choosing paper, and the making itself (scoring, folding, assembly, etc.). Patterns for finished objects that are both contemporary and versatile feature instructions that can be readily executed, covering all of the elements more specifically and including graphics, patterns, and metric measurements. Van den Baard and Veenenbos wisely scale projects from easy to advanced in three categories. Crafters will find it difficult to choose from the triangles vase, string of stars, and the authors' patented Moth Lamp. More pleats, please! Further templates and techniques appended.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)