Special Sessions FAQ

Do you need to be a member of OrigamiUSA to attend a Special Session class?

No, but there are large discounts for members of OrigamiUSA and / or the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). Discounts are also available for AMNH employees and AMNH volunteers.

What does it cost?

Members of OrigamiUSA or the AMNH: $20 per class, or $35 for two classes taken on the same day. Non-Members: $35 per class. No discounts. Why not join OrigamiUSA?

Where are classes held?

All classes are held at the American Museum of Natural History (Central Park West at 81st Street, New York City) in the children's lunch rooms on the lower level. Lunch is available at the Museum cafeterias and the many local restaurants.

When are classes held?

Special Sessions classes are normally held in the Fall (Oct/Nov/Dec) and Spring (Mar/Apr/May), one Sunday per month for 3 consecutive months. There are 8–10 classes of varying skill levels offered on each day. Morning classes are 10:30am–12:30pm. Afternoon classes are 2:30pm–4:30pm. If you drive, allow plenty of time to park because street parking in the area is limited.

What time should I arrive?

Morning classes are from 10:30am to 12:30pm. Please arrive by 10:15am. Afternoon classes are from 2:30pm to 4:30pm. Please arrive by 2:15pm. These are formal classes and latecomers are discouraged because origami is a sequential activity, not a drop-in activity, and the teacher may not be able to catch you up. Please be prepared to stay for the full two-hour class.

How do I register?

You can register online here. While you do not have to be an OrigamiUSA member, you do need to create a website account to register online. You can also register by printing out the registration form and mailing it in via postal mail. To register by phone, call our office at 212-769-5635 and speak to our administrator.

What is the deadline for registration?

Saturday at 7 pm before the date of the class you want to register for. Registration ahead of time is appreciated so that teachers can plan for the materials needed.

If I miss the registration deadline date, can I still attend?

Yes, walk-ins are welcome to fill available spots. You should have 2 choices in mind, in case your first choice class is filled.

If you are coming without having registered beforehand, please make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes early so there is time to register.

Morning classes are from 10:30am to 12:30pm. Please arrive by 10:15am.
Afternoon classes are from 2:30pm to 4:30pm. Please arrive by 2:15pm.

These are formal classes and latecomers are discouraged because origami is a sequential activity, not a drop-in activity, and the teacher may not be able to catch you up. Please be prepared to stay for the full two-hour class.

How old do I have to be to take a class?

For most classes you must be 8 or older. For children between 8 and 13, a guardian or parent does not have to take the class, but does need to be available during the class time in the School Lunchroom area where the classes are held. For Family Fun classes you must be at least 5 years old. Children between 5 and 8 must have a parent or guardian register and pay to take the class with them. Both the parent and child must pay and register individually with a separate registration for each person.

What are Family Fun Classes?

These classes are an opportunity for parents and children to fold together and be introduced to the art of origami. Children must be 5 or older. Children between 5 and 8 must have a parent or guardian register and pay to take the class with them. Both the parent and child must pay and register individually with a separate registration for each person. However, these classes are also a lot of fun for new folders of all ages. Adults without children are very welcome to attend.

What classes are being offered?

Classes are different each time. Links to class listings are available here.

Can I get reimbursed if I can't attend a class?

If you wish to cancel, you must do so in writing seven days before the class date. We will refund you with the same payment method you used to pay. If you cannot attend on the day of your class and you did not cancel in advance, we cannot provide you with a refund.

How can I teach at a special session?

Contact us at sessions [at] origamiusa.org.

What level class should I take?

BEGINNERS – If you have never folded before, we recommend you take the Family Fun class, which will help you learn some of the basics and terminology.
SIMPLE – These classes are for folders who have had a beginner folding experience with OrigamiUSA or elsewhere.
LOW INTERMEDIATE - These classes are for folders who have done some folding, know some terminology and can do an inside reverse fold. One should know how to fold a water bomb base and a preliminary base.
INTERMEDIATE - To take an intermediate class, you should know how to fold a bird base from memory, and be good at inside reverse folds, outside reverse folds, and sink folds.
HIGH INTERMEDIATE - To take a high intermediate class, you should be comfortable folding double rabbit ears, crimps, double open sinks and stretching a bird base.
COMPLEX - To take a complex class you should be an experienced folder, be able to do all the types of folds mentioned in the intermediate levels, be comfortable folding from diagrams, and be able to follow intricate sequences of precise moves.

NOTES:

Anything above the Simple level, one should be familiar with origami terminology, various folds and the bases.
Keep in mind the types of models you are familiar with and let that guide you. For example, you might be at the complex level for modulars, but an intermediate level for animals.
DON'T GET IN OVER YOUR HEAD! Take a class that best fits with your current level of folding experience.