Karakuri
Karakuri: How to Make Mechanical Paper Models That Move
Karakuri
Eri Hamaji, Keisuke Saka
Originally published in Japan, Karakuri is an introduction to the simple mechanisms, such as gears, cranks, cams, and levers, used to bring to life these amazing moving paper models or automata. Included are pull-out pages for you to use to construct your own moving models of the different types of gears. These models serve as the basis for designing your own karakuri or may just be admired on their own. Detailed explanations, accompanied by diagrams, explain the physics behind how karakuri move and operate, so you really learn about the properties of the different types of gears and cams. And to inspire you, also included are four fun, full-color karakuri models designed by the author, a well-known paper engineer. Printed on pull-out pages and easily assembled, the projects include a whimsical tea-serving robot, an amusing penguin perched on an iceberg and trying to fly, a delightful peek-a-boo-playing teddy bear, and a mesmerizing train that goes around on a track and through a tunnel!With complete directions, fourteen full-size models, and the science behind the craft revealed, this book is a unique introduction to an ancient art.

Book Details

Genre: 

  • Nonfiction

Age Level: 

  • 12 and up
Profile Picture

Karakuri, in Japanese, means mechanism. It can also mean how something works. For example, someone could say, "the karakuri of a magic trick..." It also is the name for small toys that move due to simple machines and mechanics. In Karakuri: How to Make Mechanical Paper Models That Move, it explains this and much more. There is a section with colored diagrams and understandable examples that explain the simple mechanics used in these toys. This book also describes, in easy to understand English, how to make these traditional Japanese toys.

To add your comments, login above or request a LitPick membership.