Book excerpt: Learn how to create 24 beautiful Japanese paper designs, step by step. The Simple Art of Japanese Papercrafts reveals the best of true Japanese design, focusing on understanding and using paper in a modern and authentic style to make beautiful gifts, decorations and more. Tokyo-born graphic designer Mari Ono reveals the top Japanese techniques—origami and embellishment—in a range of 24 projects, each with clear step-by-step images and easy-to-follow instructions. Also included are over 50 pieces of gorgeous origami paper to make all the projects. The designs range from contemporary ideas for greetings cards embellished with Oriental symbols of luck and love to traditional designs, such as folding paper to create a rabbit or a crane, as well as practical items including a handmade gift box. With tips and variations throughout, this is the book that will show you how to create truly authentic Japanese papercrafts using the best of papers and materials from the modern East.