National Origami Day – November 11, 2026

Expected National Origami Day Deals

As National Origami Day approaches, expect a flurry of deals on paper, kits, and instructional books from major retailers. Michaels and Hobby Lobby typically offer discounts on craft supplies, including specialty origami paper and folding tools. Online stores like Amazon and Dover Publications are likely to feature sales on popular origami books and starter sets. Independent art supply shops might host workshops or provide bundles for beginners. Keep an eye out for promotions from specialty paper brands like Tant Paper and Midori, often found at art stores or online. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as November 11 approaches.

History of National Origami Day

While the origin story of this holiday remains unknown, it began in the birthplace of origami: Japan. Long ago, paper used to be a handmade product only available to wealthy families. In correspondence sent between these families, the writer would often include an intricately folded piece of paper along with their letter. 

By using such a valuable material as mere decoration, wealthy families could demonstrate their access to such luxuries. As time marched on and paper became more readily available to the masses, origami became a regular feature of familial ceremonies such as weddings and birthdays. 

Origami finds its simplistic charm by requiring only one tool: the paper itself. In this way, it can feel much like a logic problem or a brainteaser. However, origami’s modern cousin, kirigami, allows the use of scissors and glue.

Lillian Oppenheimer, who was born in New York City at the turn of the 20th century, is responsible for introducing origami to the United States and Great Britain. She founded organizations in each of these countries so that fellow paper-folding lovers such as herself could gather and share their art. 

Today, Oppenheimer’s organization still stands in America and is called OrigamiUSA. Each year, they hold a two-week convention beginning on October 24, Lillian’s birthday, and ending on National Origami Day itself, November 11. At this convention, practitioners from all over the country come together to accomplish massive artistic feats using only paper.

Origami is an intrinsically analytical and trigonometry-based activity that requires focused attention and an inclination toward problem-solving. We cannot wait to put our hands to work on some folds of our own this holiday.