Creating Crane Wedding Art: A Step-By-Step Guide

In Japanese culture, the crane is a symbol of longevity and fidelity, as the birds are believed to mate for life and live for a thousand years. In the ancient practice of senbazuru, a couple folds a thousand origami cranes, symbolising the patience and trust necessary for a lasting marriage. The process of folding the cranes can be time-consuming and challenging, but it is considered a labour of love, bringing good fortune and happiness to the couple. The cranes can be used as wedding decorations, hung as a backdrop or placed on trees, or even used as place cards.

Choosing the right paper

Paper is an essential component of your crane wedding art, and choosing the right type is crucial to achieving the desired results. Here are some detailed tips to help you select the best paper for your project:

Paper Size

The size of the paper you choose will impact the size of your cranes. For wedding decor, you may want to opt for larger cranes, which can be more eye-catching and impressive. In this case, choosing a larger sheet of paper is advisable. If you are a beginner, you may prefer a smaller size, as it can be easier to work with. A standard size for origami paper is 10 cm, but you can also find smaller or larger sizes to suit your needs.

Paper Weight

The weight of the paper is another important consideration. Heavier paper, such as card stock, can be great for creating sturdier cranes that will hold their shape well. However, keep in mind that very heavy paper may not be suitable for printing at home, as it may not feed through your printer properly. Generally, paper weights ranging from 65 lb to 130 lb cover are suitable for printing, with heavier weights being better for flat invitations or programs.

Paper Finish

The finish of the paper can also affect the overall look and printability. Uncoated cotton paper is an excellent option as it tends to take ink very well. On the other hand, a smooth, coated paper can give your cranes a more elegant appearance, but it may not be compatible with all printers.

Paper Colour and Pattern

Cranes are traditionally made from origami paper, which is coloured on one side. You can choose a solid colour or opt for patterned paper to add interest and variety to your crane wedding art. Consider your wedding colour palette and choose shades that complement your theme.

Cost and Availability

When choosing your paper, consider your budget and the availability of the paper. If you are making a large number of cranes, look for affordable options without compromising quality. Check online or at craft stores for the best deals.

In summary, choosing the right paper for your crane wedding art involves considering size, weight, finish, colour, and cost. By selecting the appropriate paper, you can ensure your cranes are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, adding a unique and symbolic touch to your special day.

Folding the crane

Folding 1,000 paper cranes for your wedding is a beautiful tradition, but it is also a challenging task. It requires time, patience, and understanding—qualities that are also vital for a long and happy marriage. Here is a step-by-step guide to folding the perfect paper crane for your wedding:

Firstly, purchase origami paper in your wedding colours. You can choose from thousands of colours and patterns available. Then, start with a square of origami paper, coloured on one side. With the coloured side facing up, fold the paper diagonally into a triangle. Crease well, and then unfold. Repeat this process, folding diagonally in the opposite direction. Again, crease well, and then unfold. Now, flip the paper over so that the coloured side is facing down.

Next, fold the paper in half vertically, creasing well, and then unfold. Then, fold it in half horizontally, and crease. Unfold the paper, but do not flatten the square. Bring all four corners of the paper together, folding one at a time, until you have a flat square. There will be one open end and two flaps on the left and right. Now, lift the top flap on the right side and fold it towards the centre. Crease along the dotted line, and then repeat with the top flap on the left side. Fold the top point down along the centre crease, and then unfold the three folds you just made. Lift the top layer of paper and fold it back, creasing on the inside along the centre line. Press down on the points to smooth the paper into a long, flat triangle. Flip the paper over, and repeat these steps on the other side. The folded paper should now look like a diamond with two "legs" at the bottom.

Finally, taper the bottom of the diamond by folding the top layer of each leg towards the centre. Flip the paper over and repeat the tapering folds. Lift the upper flap of one leg and fold it over, as if turning the page of a book. Flip the paper over and repeat this "book" fold on the other side. Lift the upper layer of the point at the bottom and fold it back so that it meets the top points, creasing along the centre line. Flip the paper over and repeat this step on the other side.

With these steps, you will have a beautifully folded paper crane that you can use as wedding décor. Repeat this process 999 more times, and you will have a powerful symbol of your love and commitment!

Stringing the cranes

First, gather all your folded cranes and lay them out in the order you want them to be strung. You can choose to string them in a specific pattern or alternate colours for a more vibrant look. Decide on the number of cranes you want on each string. This will depend on the length of your string and the size of your cranes. You can use an Excel spreadsheet to calculate the number of cranes per string, as well as the spacing between each crane.

Next, cut your string to the desired length. You can use fishing line, which is clear and won't be visible, or any other type of string or thread that matches your colour scheme. Tie a small knot at the bottom of the string to prevent the cranes from slipping off. Then, using a needle, poke through the hole at the bottom of the first crane and pull the string through until the crane reaches the knot. Tie another knot above the crane to secure it in place.

Continue this process, adding cranes to the string one by one. You can space them out evenly or create a more clustered look by adjusting the distance between the knots. If you want to add beads or other decorative elements to the string, now is the time to do so. Simply thread them onto the string between the cranes and secure them with knots.

Once you've added all the cranes to the string, finish it off with a final knot at the top. You can add a bead or other decorative element to hide the knot if desired. Repeat this process until you have strung all your cranes.

Finally, decide how you want to display your crane strings. You can hang them from a wooden beam, a hoop, or a tree branch. You can also use them as a backdrop for your ceremony or photo booth. If you're hanging them outside, consider anchoring the bottom of each string to prevent them from blowing around in the wind.

Your crane wedding art is now complete! This labour of love will add a unique and meaningful touch to your wedding décor.

Hanging the cranes

Hanging your carefully crafted cranes is an important part of the presentation. Here are some ideas and tips to help you display your senbazuru (1000 paper cranes) with style and ease.

Firstly, you will need to decide on the layout of your cranes. You can hang them in strings or garlands, with a few cranes per string, or you could create a large backdrop with a wooden beam and hooks. If you are hanging them outside, you may want to consider anchoring them to the ground in case of wind. You can use plastic rings at both ends of the strings to make this easier.

For a string display, you will need to decide on the number of cranes per string and the spacing between them. You can use an Excel spreadsheet to calculate this, or simply measure the space you want to fill and divide it by the number of cranes. Fishing line is a good option for hanging as it is clear and won't distract from the cranes. You can use a needle to poke through the hole in the bottom of each crane and then thread the line through, tying a knot at the bottom and above each crane to keep them in place.

If you are creating a backdrop, you will need to source a wooden beam and hooks. You can attach the strings of cranes to the hooks, and then hang the beam wherever you choose. This could be behind the head table or as a backdrop for photos.

You can also get creative with your display. For example, you could hang the cranes from tree limbs for an outdoor wedding or incorporate them into your centrepieces or dessert table. You could even put a few on your wedding cake!

Whatever you choose, make sure you plan ahead so you know how many cranes you need and how you will hang them. Enjoy bringing your senbazuru to life!

Displaying the cranes

Displaying your hand-folded cranes is a beautiful way to showcase the time and effort you put into creating them. Here are some ideas for displaying your crane wedding art:

Hanging Installations

Create a stunning visual impact by hanging your cranes in a chosen space. You can use fishing line or clear jewellery string to hang your cranes. Poke a needle through the hole at the bottom of each crane, thread the line through, and tie knots above each crane to secure them. You can hang multiple cranes on a single string, creating a beautiful garland effect. Consider hanging them from tree limbs, or creating a backdrop for your ceremony or photo booth. You can also use a wooden beam and hooks to hang your crane strings, providing a stable structure.

Table Centrepieces

Add a unique touch to your wedding tables by incorporating your cranes into the centrepiece design. You can place them directly on the tables or hang them above. For a cohesive look, use cranes in your wedding colours or a specific colour theme.

Place Settings

Miniature cranes can be used as place cards, with the guest's name on one wing and the table assignment on the other. This adds a personal and creative touch to your wedding reception.

Cake Toppers

For a whimsical touch, consider placing a few cranes on your wedding cake. This will surely make your dessert stand out and showcase your crane art.

Around the Venue

If you have extra cranes, you can display them around your wedding venue. Hang them from branches, place them on guest book tables, or incorporate them into your ceremony backdrop. You can also give your guests small cranes as favours, or have them throw cranes at you instead of rice or confetti.

No matter how you choose to display your crane wedding art, it will undoubtedly add symbolism and beauty to your special day.

Frequently asked questions