"Much detail is included regarding the authors' philosophy of folding, origami as a way of connecting with others, folding as art rather than craft, finding oneself as an origami artist, selecting materials, preservation, and showing and selling origami." —Booklist

"For people who are comfortable with the craft, this is an excellent guide to the art of origami, with thoughts from these two renowned artists on paper selection, folding techniques, displaying, and preserving folded objects, among other issues." —Forward magazine

"a complete course of instruction that is an ideal do-it-yourself introduction to the Japanese art of paper folding." —Midwest Book Review

"What makes this book worthy of the word 'Essential' in its title, though, is what's between the folds. Over a quarter of the book is dedicated to articles exploring all facets of origami, from choosing and preparing folding materials, to tips on improving your folding skills, meeting other folders, and even exhibiting and selling your work." —GiladOrigami.com

"This thoughtful, in-depth guide is recommended for advanced beginners who are interested in learning the artistry of origami while simultaneously refining their skills." —Library Journal

"Learn some new techniques such as dancing with the paper (folding in the air), wet folding, making duo-sided paper, make modular, multi-piece creations, and even learn about selling what you've folded!" —CastleViewAcademy.com

"This book has some easier projects and several more difficult ones. Having the DVD makes it easier to understand as well. The book also has several pages about origami and art. Then it has sixteen projects." —Crafty Moms Share blog

Michael G. LaFosse has been an origami artist for decades and is considered a leading authority and master of the art. An avid teacher, LaFosse co-founded the Origamido Studio, a learning center and design studio dedicated to the art of origami, and the only place in the world specializing in hand papermaking for the origami artist. Origamido also produces folded art and commercial designs for a variety of international clients. LaFosse co-curated Origami Now!, a wildly popular, year-long exhibition at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts. Vanessa Gould prominently featured LaFosse in the Peabody Award-winning film, Between the Folds.

Richard L. Alexander co-founded the Origamido Studio with Michael G. LaFosse in 1996. He has been the chief papermaker, holding workshops since 2003, and is a frequent collaborator with other famous paper artists. He holds a degree from Cornell University in biology (systems ecology), where he also studied landscape architecture and design. He has consulted with apparel, container, toy and consumer product designers to incorporate folding theory into familiar daily use objects. Together, Alexander and LaFosse have created dozens of origami exhibitions, and over 75 books, kits and videos about paper and paper arts.