Ocho from Kayaragusa

Ocho from Kayaragusa is a noteworthy origami model because it is one of the first examples of representational origami. The instructions on this page shows how to make Ocho – the male butterfly similar to the one shown in the 1845 publication Kayaragusa.
This information is derived from “Wrapping Origami” by Yoshihide Momotani (1993). Momotani describes for 3 pairs of paper butterflies:
• Classical Mecho & Ocho (from Kayaragusa)
• Formal Mecho & Ocho (Traditional), and
• Regular Mecho & Ocho (Traditional)
The Classical Ocho is shown below. In his book, Momotani uses white paper with a red border; however, it is likely that the original butterflies made in the 1800’s were made with white paper only. Most ceremonial folds from that era were made with white-only paper.
Instructions to Fold Ocho from Kayaragusa
In step 4, fold only the top layers. Allow the back flaps to swivel towards the front.

Ocho (male)

Mecho (female)