Bring your designs to life in 3D! Learn the basics of paper engineering and explore how to move from two-dimensional forms to three-dimensional experiences! Drawing inspiration from Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Library’s collection of pop-up books, this hands-on workshop led by guest designer Sam Ita will engage participants through play and experimentation to construct movable designs—all from your home!

This activity includes a printable template. No printer? No problem! All you need is at least 5 pieces of paper, scissors, a glue stick and tape. 

Recommended for participants ages 5+. No prior experience in design required.

This free program will feature live instruction hosted through Zoom. A link will be emailed to you upon registration.

CART captioning will be provided. Please reach out to us with any information on how we can support your participation, and with requests for services by emailing CHAccess@si.edu.

ABOUT SAM ITA

Sam Ita has authored or created over 25 published titles focused on paper models, pop-up books, and origami. Best known for a series of pop-up / graphic novel hybrids, he teaches Paper Engineering for NYU’s ITP program. 

He has been featured in numerous publications, including Publisher’s Weekly, The Comics Journal, The Kirkus Review, The Christian Science Monitor, The School Library Journal, Entertainment Weekly, Paper Craft 2, Fully Booked; Ink On Paper Design & Concept for New Publications, Playing With Pop-Ups, The Art of Pop-Up, and Eye-Ai Magazine.  

His work has been displayed at the National Museum of American History, Washington DC; Center for Book Arts, New York, NY; Hangaram Design Museum, Seoul, Korea; Biblioteca Nacional, Lisbon, Portugal; Shelburne Museum, Shelburne, VT; Pratt Institute Library, Brooklyn, NY; and Bank Street Library, New York, NY.

WORKSHOP PROGRAM HOURS

11:00 – 12:30 p.m.

PROGRAM FAQ

CAN MY CHILD PARTICIPATE ON THEIR OWN?

Caregivers must remain with their child for the duration of the virtual program if their child is unable to participate on his or her own.

WHAT IS MY ROLE AS THE CAREGIVER IN THIS PROGRAM?

We ask that caregivers actively participate in our workshops. Caregivers are responsible for helping their child with their individual projects and should stay with their child for the duration of the program.