It’s that time of the year again! Time to fold origami stars and Christmas decorations.

For this project you will need 30 square sheets of paper, preferably double-sided. For the model pictured above I used 6 cm squares of red-yellow colored origami paper by Toyo (Japan). It worked out nicely, but I actually recommend using larger sheets, at least 7.5 cm (3 inch) in length.

Follow the video tutorial created by Sara Adams of HappyFolding.com where she demonstrates how to fold the unit and assemble all 30 of them into a modular ball:

Star Sonobe

This is a great model indeed and I’m always sorry to hear that many people have trouble assembling it.  The secret to easy and flawless assembly is to unfold and open up pockets before trying to tuck flaps inside! Just open the pocket, put the flap in place and close the pocket. That’s it. No struggle at all.

I also watched a few videos trying to find a good one to link to, but with no luck. Well, at least this one is an excellent example of how NOT to do it.

Cherry Blossom Ball

There are two variations of this model, I only folded the “curled” one. The other version of this kusudama doesn’t have curls, but I think should be even easier to assemble.

Geranium Kusudama

Sonobe

I wouldn’t say this is my favorite color combination, I had to use what I got. But I’m quite happy with how it turned out – very bright and colorful!

Waltz Kusudama

Sonobe

Sonobe