LaFosse & Alexander's Essential Book of Origami

The best introduction to LaFosse and Alexander’s approach to origami, and a complete course for beginners. The 16 structured lessons progress from basic folds to original, moderately complex designs, with each lesson accompanied by a video demonstration that shows you exactly how the folds should look in motion.

Why Start Here

LaFosse and Alexander have published over 75 books, kits, and videos, many of which target specific subjects like butterflies, airplanes, or advanced techniques. This book is their comprehensive beginner’s guide, the one that teaches the foundations everything else builds on.

What makes it distinctive is the combination of printed diagrams and video instruction. Many people struggle with origami because static diagrams do not always convey the motion and timing of a fold. The videos solve that problem. You read the diagram, watch the video, and then fold along. This dual approach makes the learning curve noticeably gentler.

The models are also largely original, meaning you will not find them in other beginner books. They range from a traditional crane to a three-dimensional heart, a two-color cat, and a great white shark folded from a two-dollar bill.

What to Expect

A focused 96-page book with 16 lessons designed to be worked through in order. The included DVD (or downloadable video) adds significant value. Each lesson takes roughly 30 to 60 minutes depending on the complexity of the model. Standard origami paper works for most projects, though the book encourages exploring different paper types.