These projects range from very basic to complex. Learning the art of origami can definitely result in hours of fun and enjoyment. It's a great way to pass away a few hours and create something beautiful at the same time. If wanting to learn about origami you can likely find books or magazines at a bookstore of craft store. One enjoyable and inexpensive hobby to consider is origami. Origami is an ancient idea that began in the early 1600's. This activity began in either China or Japan. The exact location is still unknown. However Japan is recognized for its highly developed origami art. What originally began as a pastime has been transformed into a form of art that is admired by many. Some tips for beginners - pick a well lighted relaxing area to work in, start with simple figures and work your way up (some figures will have both simple and advanced instructions for the same animal). Don't use really good paper to start with and for true beginners one of the best pieces of advice is to start with a larger piece of paper than what is called for. It's also a pretty safe bet that some of the adults will join them so better make a couple extra! Gifts: Colorful paper frames, bandanas or handkerchiefs folded into flowers or birds, lace envelopes to hold your personal note, delicate lace birds to hold your valentine, cranes (a symbol of luck) as a mobile or garland like string, book covers, book marks and dozens of other unusual gifts that you can be sure they won't get two of! In a group setting the instructions are normally relayed by one person for example a teacher or instructor. To know which folds to make, the student or individual needs to listen attentively. This is a good practice for anyone. Origami is great for fine tuning motor skills. This activity requires an individual to use their hands, both hands to fold the paper in order to achieve their goal. With the aid of computer programs using intricate mathematical theorems origami has become as much a puzzle as a piece of art. Mathematical origamists are now designing more and more complex, realistic models still sticking to the simple rule of one sheet of paper with no cuts. These programs are also used to solve problems involving getting large pieces of paper folded to fit a specific sized flat surface.