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The unexpected math of origami - Evan Zodl

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TEDEd Animation

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Origami, which literally translates to “folding paper,” is a Japanese practice dating back to at least the 17th century. In origami, a single, traditionally square sheet of paper can be transformed into almost any shape, purely by folding. The same simple concepts yield everything from a paper crane with about 20 steps, to a dragon with over 1,000 steps. Evan Zodl explores the ancient art form.

How could an object you use in your daily life be improved with the help of origami?

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About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Evan Zodl
  • Director Charlotte Arene
  • Narrator Jack Cutmore-Scott
  • Animator Charlotte Arene
  • Sound Designer Amanda P.H. Bennett, cAMP Studio, Salil Bhayani
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott
  • Editorial Producer Elizabeth Cox
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Fact-Checker Eden Girma

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