Explore Japanese Paper Arts: Origami, Chigiri-e, & Kiri-e

Spend Friday afternoons making art away from screens in this welcoming, 14-session workshop series exploring Japanese paper traditions. Participants will try origami, or paper folding; chigiri-e, or hand-torn paper collage and painting; and kiri-e, or cut-paper art. Projects range from seasonal decorations and greeting cards to everyday objects, imaginative desserts, and nature-inspired pieces. No previous experience is required.

The series uses authentic Japanese washi, decorative wrapping and accent papers, recycled newspapers, multilingual book fragments, and various adhesives. All materials and tools are supplied, though participants may bring personal papers or keepsakes to incorporate into their work.

When: Friday, December 4, 2026

Showtimes: 1:00pm–2:30pm

Series schedule: December 4: Introduction to Japanese paper arts; December 11: holiday decorations; December 18: a chigiri-e calendar for January 2027; January 8: Japanese New Year celebration; January 15: chigiri-e name art; January 22: origami everyday items; January 29: origami and kiri-e inspired by the Year of the Sheep; February 12: hearts using origami, chigiri-e, and kiri-e; February 19: snow-themed handmade cards; February 26: Hinamatsuri, the Japanese Doll Festival, through origami and kiri-e; March 5: dream desserts made with kiri-e and chigiri-e; March 12 and March 19: four seasons through trees using chigiri-e and kiri-e, with the March 19 session repeating the March 12 lesson; and April 2: spring in Boston through chigiri-e, featuring ume, sakura, tulips, and more.

Instructor: Chihiro, a Cambridge-based mixed-media artist and founder of 5U3 Workshop, leads the series. Her work combines traditional Japanese paper arts with sustainable, upcycled materials. She has taught in libraries, makerspaces, schools, and senior living communities, and brings experience in nonprofit work, public health, and community advocacy to her inclusive, hands-on classes.

Ages: Everyone is welcome, and no prior experience is needed.

Materials: All materials and tools are provided. Participants may also bring papers or personal keepsakes for their projects.

Registration: Registration is required. The page lists 9 seats remaining, and registration closes December 4 at 1:00pm.

Tickets: Price not available

Venue: West End Branch Library, Programs Room, West End

Address: 151 Cambridge St, Boston, MA 02114

Hours: The location is listed as open from 9:00am–5:00pm on the day of the event.

Contact: West End Branch Library at westend@bpl.org or 617-523-3957.