[For Seniors] Enjoy Something New Every Day! Today’s Origami

Origami for Fukuwarai

How to fold an Okame (Fukuwarai) with origami [New Year’s game]

Did you know that the “Okame” used in fukuwarai is actually a deity who brings good fortune? Let’s try folding this auspicious Okame with origami.

First, make the creases, then fold along them again.

Some steps are a bit tricky, so please offer support if it seems difficult.

If you also make facial parts for the finished Okame, you can play fukuwarai.

You could glue the parts on and enjoy it as a decoration, too.

Origami has a long history, so it’s a familiar pastime for older adults.

Through origami, some people may even recall memories from their childhood.

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Nakajima Junko

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amulet

[Origami] Easy! New Year’s Amulet Folding Method – Origami Amulet

When it comes to New Year’s in Japan, many people think of hatsumode (the first shrine visit), ema (votive tablets), and omamori (charms).

This video introduces how to make an omamori using origami! Let older adults pick their favorite color of origami paper and, using the video as a guide, create a one-of-a-kind handmade charm.

At the end, make a paper talisman to represent a sacred amulet slip, write your wish on it, and place it inside the charm.

As people get older, some may find it troublesome to go out for hatsumode or other outings.

By making a handmade omamori, help them feel the New Year spirit at home!

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moko

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koma

[3 sheets of origami] Let's make an origami spinning top!

Here’s a spinning top made of origami that’s perfect for New Year’s activities at day service centers or for making together with your grandchildren! With just three sheets of origami paper, you can create a colorful, cool top.

The key is to make crisp creases and fold carefully as you go.

Make the parts from each sheet of paper and assemble them at the end.

No glue or scissors needed, so anyone can try it easily! You can also combine patterned or glittery origami to enjoy a different look.

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miyabi

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menko (a traditional Japanese card-and-coin-flipping game)

Easy! Origami: How to make a paper menko [tutorial]

Let’s make a traditional toy, menko—familiar to many seniors—using origami! After you make it, how about enjoying a fun game of menko with your family or everyone at day service? You’ll create parts from two sheets of origami paper and combine them at the end.

By changing the color combinations, you can transform the look and finish with a charming menko! It’s perfect for New Year’s activities at day service or for making together with your grandchildren, so give it a try!

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miyabi

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Origami Cat

[Origami] Easy! How to Make a “Cat” – Origami Cat

February 22 is said to be Cat Day.

Let’s encourage seniors to enjoy making seasonally fitting “cat” origami in February while getting some finger exercise.

Moving the fingers stimulates the brain and may help prevent dementia.

Origami can be done while seated, and many seniors likely played with it when they were young.

It’s a familiar pastime for them, and this cat origami isn’t complicated, so they can take it on without strain.

The finished pieces are heartwarming works that can be displayed on facility walls or in their own rooms.

With a bit of creativity—such as combining them with other pieces—you can achieve an even cuter result.

Ehomaki

[Setsubun Origami] How to fold an Ehomaki (rolled sushi) with voice commentary ☆ Origami rolled sushi tutorial / Tatsukuri

Ehomaki are sushi rolls eaten while facing the year’s lucky direction, called the “eho,” on Setsubun.

At senior care facilities, some may also serve easy-to-eat versions of ehomaki during Setsubun events.

Eating ehomaki is a way to wish for good fortune in the coming year.

Let’s try folding this lucky item out of origami.

An ehomaki has the black seaweed exterior and the white rice inside, but we’ll make it using a single sheet of origami paper.

Some steps are a bit complex, but seniors who are skilled at origami will likely enjoy making it.

Please have those around them support the challenging parts.

For the fillings, you can easily create them using round stickers.

Of course, coloring is fine too.

Through creating their own ehomaki, seniors might find an opportunity to reflect on their past Setsubun memories.

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Nakajima Junko

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Halloween monster balloon

Halloween Monster Balloon 🎃 #origami #shorts #Halloween

Halloween, a major event in autumn, features a variety of characters centered around ghosts.

Let’s create those Halloween characters by adding designs to origami balloons.

Since all the origami pieces share the same cube shape, your choice of colors and how you draw the designs are key.

While including classic motifs like jack-o’-lanterns and mummies, try coming up with your own monsters as well.

It could also be fun to incorporate not only monsters from overseas but Japanese yokai, too.

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kappamaki

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