Gerardo, I am also looking for Tyvek for a small origami project and found the same website. I am looking for a small quantity to experiment with first, then may try to get more, depending upon how expensive it is. There are many grades of Tyvek, some more like paper, some more like fabric. I would recommend that before you buy a large quantity on-line that you ask them to send you a small sample. I am interested in finding a more lightweight paper kind, similar to what is used for federal express (FedEx) envelopes. If I find a good source, I can let you know, and if you find one, could you please share it with me?
It was suggested to me that I look for it in local stores that use it for different applications; vapor barrier used in construction and in signage. I looked on the Home Depot Web-site and they don't have it, but have not taken the time to explore more hardware/building supply stores. I did find some at a local mural project, but have not gone down to check out the consistency: http://www.precitaeyes.org/store.html I am always interested in finding new types of paper to use for folding. I don't know what you are looking for with the Tyvek, but you might also consider "Yupo?" I got some from a local art store, but it is too stiff for all but the simplest models. http://www.dickblick.com/products/yupo-watercolor-paper/ Haven't experimented with it much. One of the problems with plastic/papers is that they are "springy" and have a tendency to unfold themselves. It might be possible to heat-set the creases using a pressing cloth like you would for clothes? It may also work better to stitch layers together to keep them from falling apart rather than using glue. Of course some people may think that it's "cheating", but I think that it's part of the creative process. What I find that is egregious is when people "cheat" but also try to hide or deny it. For a friend's event I folded close to 100 of the traditional lotus out of sandwich wrapping paper. I got it at a local restaurant supplier; "Smart & Final". It came in a package of 1000, so I expect that it will keep me busy for quite a while! It is very thin and semi-translucent, but also has a good deal of strength for it's weight. It doesn't tear when your turn the petals around from the back to the front. Unfortunately, since it is not made for origami, it is not square and when I tried to cut it, I discovered that the sides are not at a true 90 degree angle. Doesn't matter so much for the lotus, but for a more precise model, it might. I saw on Facebook that someone used "grease proof" paper that is also used in food prep, but haven't found any of that yet. Freezer paper is plasticized on one side, but is a little too stiff except for simple models. I am looking for something to make the lotuses out of that is waterproof, but also flameproof, which may be tricky. I was hoping to fold the lotuses and float them on water with a small candle inside. I realize that they are ephemeral and may not last long anyway, but wanted them to be as safe as possible. If they do catch fire on the water they will be extinguished, but don't want to make a mess if it can be avoided. Some of the waterproof papers are composed of plastic and may melt when exposed to flame. If find a solution, I can share, or if you have any suggestions, please let me know. Happy Folding! Susan (San Francisco, CA) Was originally just responding to Gerardo, but realized that a more open discussion may be helpful to many.
