Why was paper an especially useful material for folding?

Paper has proven to be an ideal material for folding because of its unique physical properties, which allow it to be manipulated into both two-dimensional and three-dimensional forms with ease.1

The utility of paper for this art form stems from several key characteristics:

• Flexibility and Structure: Paper possesses a balance of stiffness and flexibility, allowing it to hold a crease while remaining pliable enough to be shaped into complex designs.12
• Durability: The material is strong enough to withstand the stress of repeated folding and handling during the creative process.2
• Versatility: Because paper is composed of a randomly felted layer of fibers, its structure can be varied during manufacturing to suit different needs, ranging from soft, flexible tissues to more rigid sheets.2
• Accessibility: Historically, paper provided a superior and more affordable surface compared to materials like silk, making it a practical medium for recreational and artistic expression.1

While other materials like cloth or leather may have been used for folding before the invention of paper, paper's specific consistency and ability to retain folds have made it the standard medium for origami.1