The Origin of Origami

Origami is known as a Japanese art, but where it truly originated from is unknown. Some people believe that paper folding originated in China, since paper was said to have been invented by Cai Lun in A.D. 105. But because there are no historical evidences that the Chinese did paper folding and there is a short record of Japanese paper folding from the 18th century, the Japanese are credited with the origin of origami as we know today. 

The word origami is Japanese and comes from the word "oru" (to fold) and "kami"  (paper). Although the word literally means to fold paper, in modern times there is debate on origami pertaining to folding other mediums such as metal or plastic.There were many uses for origami, but mostly it was incorporated in religious ceremonies. When it was first created, origami was an expensive commodity As origami advanced and became more available, people started to create the many beautiful unique designs seen today. 

References:
http://www.paperfolding.com/history/ 
http://www.origami.as/Info/history.php