The cranes represent a very important Japanese legend. The origami of this oriental bird is one of the best known. It can be used in decoration, to entertain children and stimulate art.
In addition, Tsuru folding is offered in temples as a prayer request. As it symbolizes peace, the oriental bird is very present in the decoration of traditional celebrations, such as New Year’s parties and weddings. Then get to know the legend and learn how to make origami.
What is tsuru?
Although popular due to origami, the Tsuru is a bird of Japanese legend. His beauty is considered sacred and he lives up to a thousand years. Therefore, among his representations is the vitality of youth. He is also considered the protector of the hermits, who lived as refugees in the mountains and believed in the power of eternal youth.
The history of the tsuru
After the bomb blast in Hiroshima in 1945, many war survivors became ill, including a 12-year-old girl named Sadako. During her treatment against leukemia, the girl received a visit from a friend who told her the legend of the tsuru: if she produced a thousand birds thinking about a wish, at the end of production, it would come true.
Sadako’s illness was in an advanced stage, so healing would not be an option and she decided to ask for world peace. However, Sadako died on October 25, 1955, after doubling 964 cranes. Friends of hers completed the goal and started a campaign to build a monument symbolizing the peace she wanted. In 1958, the construction was ready, since then, the cranes gained another symbology: peace.
What does tsuru mean?
There are many stories about Tsuru, so over time he gained various symbologies: health, good luck, happiness, peace, longevity and fortune.
how to make a tsuru
Tsuru origami requires only one material: square-shaped paper (you choose the size). This type of craft requires more attention than practice. Over time, it is very easy to memorize each step. See the step by step:
- Bringing two ends together, fold the square paper into a triangle shape. Then unfold, leaving where it was folded well marked.
- Fold the square in half on the opposite side of the marking, forming another triangle. Then, fold the triangle in half.
- Secure this triangle fold. Open it and repeat the process on the other side.
- Create a diamond by joining the main ends together and folding them up.
- Fold a small corner towards the center, forming a triangle on the open side of the origami.
- Repeat the process on the opposite side.
- The folded square should be turned over for you to repeat the new triangle fold steps, until it looks like a kite.
- Unfold the sheet to square shape, keeping the folds and creases created with all the previous folding steps. Use these markings as a guide to open one side, folding the edge of the paper up.
- Repeat on the other side. This process will leave the sheet in a diamond shape, with the top accessible for opening.
- Fold one of the corners (can be from any face of the origami) towards the center.
- Repeat the same process on the other side, keeping the symmetry of the fold as much as possible.
- Fold the center corners to the center once more.
- Do the same process on the other side.
- Open one side of the paper, folding it in half. This process works both ways.
- Fold one of the bottom halves up, positioning to form the tail.
- The other half will be positioned up in the other direction to form the neck.
- Fold one of the ends down, forming the beak.
You can keep the central part closed or open it to make Tsuru fly wings. The effect is even more beautiful if you make the origami on colored paper.
Tsuru making tutorials
Below, a selection of videos for you to unleash your creativity. In addition to learning how to make the traditional tsuru, see amazing tips to enrich your home or party decor.
Step by step to make a tsuru
After checking out the written step by step, it’s time to visually learn how to make your tsuru. The tutorial is very didactic. The creases can be created with your fingernails or with the help of scissors.
How to make tsuru candy mold
If a decoration with origami of tsuru is already cool, imagine including candy molds in the same style? In this video, you will follow the step by step of the execution of this project that is made only with paper and nothing else.
crane mobile
With less than R$5 it is possible to make a beautiful crane mobile. In addition to the paper, you’ll need string and some beads for embellishment.
Producing your tsuru can provide you with moments of distraction and relaxation. Crafting with EVA is also a great way to stimulate creativity and decorate your home in style.
