In origami, a flat piece of paper is folded to create a dimensional object. Similarly, in traditional Japanese kirigami, paper is folded, cut, and unfolded to reveal complex patterns—like a paper snowflake. Here, author Hiroshi Hayakawa has ingeniously combined these two techniques to create a charming menagerie of 38 animals, from flocks of sheep and swirling dragons to stampeding ostriches and pandas in a bamboo grove.

Full-size templates are provided to photocopy onto the card stock of your choice. And for added whimsy, readers can download a fence pattern or textured patterns at www.larkbooks.com. Each project is introduced with a humorous limerick and supported by colorful, modern photography.