Researchers Create an Advanced Alternative to 3D Printing Written by AZoMDec 23 2020 Elaborate paper cards, pop-up children’s books and paper snowflakes are interesting not only to crafters but also to other individuals. New research allows each kirigami motif to bend into multiple shapes. Image Credit: Northwestern University. A group of engineers from Northwestern University has created an advanced alternative to 3D printing by applying concepts taken from paper-folding practices. The word Kirigami comes from the Japanese words 'kiru' (to cut) and 'kami' (paper). It is a classical form of art, wherein the paper is accurately cut and changed into a 3D object.