Kusudama (Design by Nina Ostrum)

I decided to fold this model at the last minute, today. I had initially planned to fold the origami rat designed by Eric Joisel but was simply not in the mood. So I browsed through and thought I’d fold something simple and quick instead!

I am not aware of the original designer of this model, but nonetheless it requires just 6 sheets of paper, square shaped. You can choose the size you would like to use; I have used an 8 1/4″ duo colored paper to fold the model in the accompanied image.

The design involved a sink which is the only step which might be complicated for beginners. The rest of the steps are really easy otherwise. Folding this model tool me around half an hour so I was really pleased. It requires no glue at all and can be assembled easily too.

How to fold this model:

Barbabellatje, a contributor on YouTube.com has recorded and uploaded a pretty good instructional video on this model which I think you too, will fnd it really easy to follow.

I came across a reference to this particular model as that being the “Ostrum Kusudama” or Nina Ostrum’s Star. However, I am not completely sure. If any of you have more information about this, please feel free to comment and correct me.

Star Shaped Kusudama

This Kusudama model is another popular one that you might have come across on Google and other Origami blogs.

What you need:
- 30 sheets (multi – colored) of origami paper. Wrapping paper can be used here, too. Size of the paper can be 6” to 8” – square shaped.
- The sheets of paper you use can be printed / colored on one side only or on both sides.
- Glue stick (optional)

Please remember:
- You can use glue to stick the flaps together, if you are comfortable with that idea. Else, manual interlocking of the units will work just fine, too.
- If you would prefer the “Star Shape” you see in the midst of the 5 unit interlocking to be plain white in color, start folding your units with the white side of the sheet facing you.

How to fold the unit(s):
Fold each of the 30 sheets in the manner explained in this 2 part video:

Part 1:

Part 2:

How to assemble the units:

- You need to make patterns of 3 units and 5 units repeatedly to get the “globe” look to the model.
- Therefore, first connect 3 units as shown, and then connect 3 more, to give a pattern of a “star” (5 units) and the adjoining 2.