Project Background for Karakuri

Karakuri paper models are mechanisms made out of paper that move when you turn a crank. Originating in Japan, these models take origami to the next level.  What starts as a sheet of paper turns into a fun and cute toy through a series of cuts, folds, and gluing.  The model I chose is called the ‘Peek-a-Bear’ and comes from the book: Karakuri: How to Make Mechanical Paper Models That Move, by Keisuke Saka and translated by Eri Hamaji.  The mechanism is a bear that plays the game peek-a-boo when you turn a crank on the outside and is made entirely out of paper.