Traditional Butterfly

In traditional Shinto wedding ceremonies, a male and female origami butterfly, known as Ocho and Mecho, are often wrapped around sake bottles or flasks. They symbolize the bride and groom and represent a joyful union. This custom dates back centuries and remains a popular ceremonial decoration.

Washi paper, a traditional Japanese paper made from fibers like kozo (mulberry), is frequently used for ceremonial models like wedding butterflies. Standard kami paper with a bit of weight is also perfectly suitable for practicing the basic folds. You generally want a square sheet that holds a crease well but is thin enough to avoid bulk at the wing tips.

The traditional butterfly is considered a beginner-to-intermediate model, making it highly accessible for most folders. It utilizes a series of classic squash folds and petal folds to form the wings. Most people can successfully complete the model after just a few practice attempts.

While you can fold butterflies from money, the traditional Japanese butterfly is specifically designed for square paper. There are separate, specific money-folding (origami) tutorials designed to make butterflies out of rectangular dollar bills. To get the classic symmetric shape, however, a square 6x6 inch sheet is highly recommended.