Animal origami bases are a set of simple, yet abstract folded figures. And although the paper itself may not look like anything after being folded into a base, it is just the starting point from which to make other origami animals.

Learning the traditional animal bases, like the preliminary bird and frog, make it easy to complete a wide array of other origami projects. Cranes are not the only animal origami creatures that can be recreated through folds, as cats, dogs, fish and many other animals are also popular choices.

Once you have built the origami base you need, you will have the foundation of something that, with just a few other folds, can create numerous other shapes.

When beginning to build a project, choose a simple origami pattern which is less complex to construct. Although it is called the bird base, it does not mean that only origami birds can be created from it, as other animals as well as decorative figures and gifts use the bird base as a starting point.

Here's how to make a dog using this Japanese paper form. First, you will begin with a square piece of paper. If it is colored, put the colored side face down on the work surface and then fold along the diagonal to create a triangle.

Next you will bring the corners together to section the paper in half and then unfold. This step creates a crease. Now you will place the model so that two points are at the top and one point is facing down.

To create the dog's ears, you will turn down each of the two top points, using the center crease line as a guide. Finally, folding the top and bottom of the dog's head away from you. The dog is complete.

This is a very basic origami diagram. Many kids who make this enjoy pasting google eyes on it as well as drawing a nose and a mouth to make it more realistic and personalized. For a great selection of inspiring origami animals and others, visit the website of Robert J. Lang, at www.langorigami.com.

Creating perfect folds in origami can be simple or difficult; it all depends on the design involved, especially for kid's crafts. Often it is recommended to add google eyes and use pens or pencils to create more realistic finished products.

To create a herd of horses or a flock of birds, use paper that contains shades of the same color. As well, choose paper that is colored differently on each side, so that you are immediately aware of which side is the front and which side is the back.

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