Origami Letter Messaging Tool

Press Kit

Unique Properties

Origami Letter is a messaging tool using origami to express feelings.
On the site users can fold a digital letter or print and fold a paper letter, giving users two ways to send messages.
It was awarded Gold at the iF Design Award in Germany.

Dimensions & Packaging

For the digital letter, we created a system that converts text input by the user into WebGL textures without affecting their appearance. By combining pre-rendered images from 3DCG software with WebGL textures, we maintain a natural look and feel while enabling real-time interaction. We designed it as a single-page application that seamlessly creates a sequence of events, from writing a letter to completing the folded origami.

Tags

japan, origami, letter, message, culture, brother, expo, interactive, communication, webgl

Production Technology

We created a design with detailed decorations by combining the geometric similarities between origami, a sequence of folds, and the Middle Eastern arabesque patterns. For example, the polyhedral net for the origami crane inspired the arabesque pattern that appears when it is complete. These details and relaxing animations express a subtle worldview of heartfelt messages.

Design Challenge

Our biggest creative challenge was expressing the beauty of origami, and how a piece of paper can become a 3D shape in a digital user experience.
We paid particular attention to the first fold that hides the message, matching it to the same fold when using paper. It was accomplished through repeated examination and prototyping. In addition, we created a 3D animation by overlaying images using CG to produce a beautiful and bold expression.

Research

We sought to create a communication tool between a letter and a chat app. Apps are an everyday part of life, but they lack emotion with their simple UI, while handwriting can be a pain. That's why our tool is easy to use and express your feelings to others. It is the perfect communication tool for today's world.
After launching, we received a positive worldwide response.

Inspiration

Origami is the traditional Japanese craft of paper folding that began as a form of courtesy when washi paper was folded neatly to wrap gifts. Brother, a printer manufacturer, wishes to respect this Japanese tradition by making it a modern communication tool for people to convey their feelings.

Project Duration

The site officially launched in July 2020, but not promoted because the Dubai Expo, scheduled in October 2020, was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following several revisions, publicity began in October 2021 to coincide with the official opening of the Dubai Expo and International Letter Writing Week, which aims to promote cultural exchange and contribute to world peace through letter-writing among people worldwide.

Operation Flow

Folding paper origami is difficult for new users, but Origami Letter makes it easy for everyone. After writing a message, users can swipe or click to fold the digital letter, and finish it in three simple steps. Then they can share the URL, and send their precious message to someone special. It can be downloaded as a PDF and printed out to have the experience of folding it with real paper.

Image Credits

ORIGAMI LETTER PROJECT TEAM