Bird Base: The Foundation of Origami Cranes and Complex Models
The Bird Base is one of the fundamental bases in origami, creating a form with four points that typically become the head, tail, and wings of bird models. This versatile foundation is essential for many intermediate to advanced origami designs and serves as a stepping stone to complex paper folding.
Origin and History
The Bird Base has been used in traditional Japanese origami for centuries. While its exact origin is unclear, it became standardized in the early 20th century when Akira Yoshizawa, the grandmaster of modern origami, began codifying traditional bases and techniques. The name “Bird Base” comes from its primary use in creating avian models, most famously the iconic crane.
How to Create a Bird Base
Starting with a square sheet of paper, the Bird Base requires several precise preliminary folds, including diagonal creases in both directions and horizontal/vertical center folds. The paper is then collapsed along these creases in a specific sequence, transforming the flat square into a shape with four equal flaps extending from a central point.
The trickiest part of forming the Bird Base is the collapse step, where multiple creases must work together as the paper folds inward. Many beginners find this challenging at first, but it becomes intuitive with practice.
Common Models Using the Bird Base
The Bird Base serves as the starting point for numerous origami models:
- Traditional crane (tsuru)
- Flapping bird
- Peace dove
- Swan
- Many insects with four limbs
- Dragons and other mythical creatures
- Flowers with four petals
Related Techniques and Bases
- Preliminary Base: Often used as a step toward creating the Bird Base
- Frog Base: A variation that builds upon the Bird Base
- Stretched Bird Base: A modified version with elongated points
- Petal Fold: Often used after creating the Bird Base to shape wings or other features
Further Learning
Mastering the Bird Base opens up countless possibilities in origami. Try our Origami Crane Tutorial to put this base into practice, or explore the 5 Essential Origami Bases to learn related foundations.