day 52 - equality

In modular origami, equality isn't an idea — it's a requirement. It's material and measurable. 

When folding modular or symmetrical forms, the beauty comes from balance. 

Every module has to start out exactly the same size, be folded with the same precision, given the same care. If I rush one unit, the whole structure tells on me. 

Equality here shows up as patience, as repetition, as willingness to offer the same respect again and again. 

The challenge is consistency; the delight is when the whole becomes visibly balanced.

Today, I'm practicing equality, in origami and in life, by meeting repetitive tasks with curiosity and patience.

Illusion cubes designed by David Mitchell. Published in his book, Sticky Note Origami.

day 49 - honour

“The way you do anything is the way you do everything.”

- Thich Nhat Hanh

Honor in origami is how I treat what’s been entrusted to me.

Every choice — the paper, the pattern, the folds, the time — matters. 

Each square, each hand that will receive it, each minute spent folding is part of the offering.

Today, I’m practicing honor by giving this practice—and the sharing of it—the care, gratitude, and attention it deserves.

day 44 - cooperation

"The powerful have their power. But we have something too - the capacity to stop pretending, to name reality, to build our strength at home and to act together."  

- Mark Carney

Cooperation requires shared effort. My hands are guided by the paper's limits, and the paper responds to my hands.

This particular form cannot exist without collaboration between parts. 

• No single unit is the centre. 
• No piece is "in charge". 
• Each module holds, and is held. 

Like this modular ring, peace cannot be imposed. It must be assembled.

Today I'm practicing cooperation by remembering that the strength of the whole depends on the care of, and from, each part.

day 40 - unity

"Unity in Diversity" 

- A phrase popularized by Jawaharlal Nehru, and inspired by the ancient wisdom of the Rig Veda

Unity doesn’t have to mean sameness.

In many societies—and in many moments of daily life—people belong to one whole while carrying different traditions, viewpoints, and histories. Diversity doesn’t weaken unity; often, it enriches it.

I’m usually a bit timid when it comes to aesthetic risks. I tend to choose familiar color combinations and make sure everything neatly “matches.”

But when I took a chance and folded this modular box using four different patterned papers, I was surprised and delighted by the result. The colors settled into harmony, creating a charming patchwork effect.

Today I’m practicing unity by celebrating the many parts of my life that come together in harmony—despite their differences, and sometimes because of them.

Modular Box Design by Tomoko Fuse

day 15 - reverence

" Awe produces a state of reverence, a feeling of respect and gratitude for the things that are given."

       - Dacher Keltner

Reverence doesn't necessarily require ceremony in the traditional sense.

It's about seeing the sacred, yes - and also about recognizing the sacred in the ordinary.

This eight-piece modular form feels to me like part flower, part compass, part mandala. I am awed by the beauty of geometry, folded and fit together in such a pretty - but modest - medium. 

Today I'm practicing reverence by noticing symmetry, layers, and the depth of detail I only truly appreciate when I pause.

Wreath Source: Oriya on YouTube

made for giving

 

dinner in?

little things

 

Sometimes when the big things in life don’t seem to be coming together it helps to feel like the little things fit.

These modular boxes were folded by me with origami paper from Oomomo. 

The box and lid are designed by Tomoko Fuse.

#initforallthelove, all beings

Day 14/14, Kusudama (12 Sonobe Units)

Finally, love to all beings. 

To form this modular kusudama, or “medicine ball” (isn’t that appropriate?!?) multiple units are folded and interlocked, just like our connections and relationships build and contain us. 

May love and compassionate relationships fill this and all of our days for the sake of all beings.

Many thanks for being with me on this journey, and for being “in it for all the love”.

3 origami pieces to elevate your home

Look what was featured on Cityline today:

Here are the instructions for the three projects.  Enjoy!

pretty twisted

you spin me

sweet surprise

a little birdie

wonderful

flirt

funky flowers

handmade

keeping tabs

for love or money