Paper engineering is the art of creating three-dimensional structures from flat sheets of paper. It is a fascinating and intricate craft that has been around for centuries, but has gained a new level of popularity in recent years. One of the reasons for this renewed interest in paper engineering is the rise of social media and online platforms, like YouTube, where paper engineers can share their creations and techniques with a wider audience. In this article, we will explore the world of paper engineering on YouTube, including the different types of paper engineering videos you can find, some of the most popular paper engineers on the platform, and tips for getting started with paper engineering yourself.
Types of Paper Engineering Videos on YouTube
There are many different types of paper engineering videos available on YouTube, ranging from tutorials and demonstrations to speed builds and time-lapses. Some of the most popular types of paper engineering videos include:
Tutorials: These videos are instructional in nature, and are designed to teach viewers how to create specific paper engineering designs or techniques. Tutorials can range from beginner-level to advanced, and can cover a wide range of topics, from basic paper folding and cutting to more complex structures and mechanisms.
Demos: These videos showcase the finished product of a paper engineering project, and often include close-up shots and different angles to highlight the intricacy and detail of the design. Demos can be inspiring for viewers who are interested in paper engineering but may not have the time or skill to create their own designs.
Speed Builds: Speed builds are time-lapse videos that show the process of creating a paper engineering project from start to finish in a condensed amount of time. These videos can be mesmerizing to watch, as viewers can see the design take shape in a matter of minutes or even seconds.
Reviews: Some paper engineering YouTubers also create videos where they review different types of paper, tools, and other materials that are commonly used in the craft. These videos can be helpful for beginners who are just starting out and may not know which materials to use.
Challenges: Finally, some paper engineering YouTubers create videos where they take on challenges or prompts to create a specific type of design or structure within a set amount of time. These videos can be entertaining to watch and can also showcase the creativity and problem-solving skills of the paper engineer.
Popular Paper Engineers on YouTube
There are many talented and creative paper engineers on YouTube, each with their own unique style and approach to the craft. Here are just a few of the most popular paper engineers on the platform:
Jo Nakashima: Jo Nakashima is a Brazilian paper engineer who has been creating paper folding tutorials on YouTube since 2006. His channel features a wide range of origami and paper engineering projects, from simple animals and flowers to complex modular designs and paper airplanes. Jo’s tutorials are easy to follow and include step-by-step instructions as well as diagrams.
Rob Ives: Rob Ives is a British paper engineer who specializes in creating paper automata, or mechanical toys that move when a crank or lever is turned. His YouTube channel features tutorials and demos of his amazing creations, which include everything from dinosaurs and robots to musical instruments and vehicles. Rob’s designs are often intricate and complex, but his tutorials are clear and easy to follow.
Paper Kawaii: Paper Kawaii is a YouTube channel run by Chrissy, a paper engineer from the UK. Her channel features tutorials for a wide range of origami and paper engineering projects, including animals, flowers, and modular designs. Chrissy’s tutorials are well-organized and easy to follow, with clear instructions and diagrams.
Jeremy Shafer: Jeremy Shafer is an American paper engineer who is known for his amazing origami designs and tutorials. His YouTube channel features a wide range of projects, from simple animals and flowers to complex modular designs and pop-up cards. Jeremy’s tutorials are entertaining and engaging, with a fun and playful style that makes them enjoyable to watch.
Peter Dahmen: Peter Dahmen is a German paper engineer who creates amazing pop-up cards and other paper structures. His YouTube channel features demos of his incredible designs, which often include intricate mechanisms and moving parts. Peter’s videos are beautifully shot and edited, showcasing the detail and complexity of his work.
Tips for Getting Started with Paper Engineering
If you are interested in trying your hand at paper engineering, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you get started:
Start with simple projects: If you are new to paper engineering, it’s a good idea to start with simple projects that are easy to follow and don’t require a lot of specialized tools or materials. Look for beginner-level tutorials on YouTube or in books and magazines, and practice your skills before moving on to more complex projects.
Invest in good tools and materials: While you don’t need a lot of fancy tools and materials to get started with paper engineering, it’s worth investing in some basic supplies like a bone folder, a cutting mat, and high-quality paper.