At just 7 years old, Eli discovered that folding paper could be more than a pastime—it could be an art form. What began with fortune tellers and paper airplanes (that often win distance contests with family and friends) has grown into more advanced projects like origami boxes and even creative props he designs himself. His favorite piece so far?
“Red/Black Katana’s with Sheath Backpack is my favorite origami creation because it was super challenging to create, and I made it myself without any DIY tutorials,” Eli says.
Unlike many origami fans, Eli doesn’t always rely on step-by-step instructions. He enjoys coming up with his own designs and experimenting until they work. “I love inventing my own, but sometimes I’ll watch origami videos on YouTube when I want ideas or just want to memorize another piece.”
Eli’s curiosity for how things work started early. When a friend gave him a paper fortune teller in 1st grade, he couldn’t just enjoy it—he had to know how it was made. “I reversed engineered it. At school, I took it apart and saw how he made it then put it back together until I learned how to make it myself.” That drive to figure things out has carried through his hobby.
So what keeps him folding? “I like the challenge and to see if I can actually make it with no problems.”
But origami isn’t his only outlet. Eli has always liked stretching his brain. His teachers noticed it early on, recommending advanced classes to keep him engaged. Now, as a high school freshman, he’s taking on Honors Geometry and Honors Biology. When he’s not folding, you’ll probably find him solving Sudoku puzzles, playing Minesweeper, or mapping out strategies in chess.
Origami is more than just paper folding—it’s a way to think differently, problem-solve, and keep the mind sharp. Eli’s creations prove that sometimes the most impressive projects come from experimenting, failing, and trying again until you figure it out.
The History of Origami
Origins: Paper was invented in China around 100 A.D., and folding soon followed. The practice spread to Japan, where it became a cultural tradition.
Symbolism: In Japan, folding 1,000 paper cranes is said to bring good luck and even grant wishes. The crane has become a global symbol of peace.
Modern Origami: Today, origami is as much about math and design as it is art. Some models are so detailed they can take hours—or even days—to complete.
Try It Yourself!
Origami is more than just paper folding—it’s a way to think differently, problem-solve, and keep the mind sharp. Eli’s creations prove that sometimes the most impressive projects come from experimenting, failing, and trying again until you figure it out.
