Get Started in Origami With These 10 Simple Projects (2024)

Paper Crafts

Origami

Beginner Origami

Origami, the centuries-old art of folding paper into decorative shapes and figures, has evolved into a popular art form that anyone can do. Start simple with cute, easy origami projects to perfect the basics of folding paper into geometric shapes. Once you have the knack for manipulating paper, you can then embark on more complicated projects. Look no further for the best origami projects for beginners. The tutorials shared below will help you lay the foundation for origami mastery.

• 01 of 10

  See Also

  Origami, the Japanese Tradition of Paper Folding — TOKIJapanese Washi Paper: 8 Things You Need to KnowForms of Origami British OrigamiPapermaking in Japan

  Crane

  

  The traditional origami crane is perhaps the most popular example of origami. It uses a bird base, which is a square base plus two petal folds. Traditionally, folding a thousand paper cranes is said to grant you the right to make one special wish.

• 02 of 10

  Modular Cube Box

  

  Next up is this lovely modular origami cube box, made from sixSonobe units (a specific origami shape that forms the base of many projects). These make great decorations or they can be used as gift boxes. If you use several different colored sheets of paper, they have apretty patchwork effect.

• 03 of 10

  Hanging Decoration/Spinning Top

  

  Spinning tops are popular paper toys for children. This design uses sixsheets of paper that are joined together, offering a unique opportunity for mixing and matching different origami paper patterns. These would look pretty hanging in a nursery as part of an origami mobile. The basic format can also be used to make Christmas tree ornaments.

• 04 of 10

  Tulip Flower and Stem

  

  Thisorigami tulip flower also has a stem that it fits onto. You will need two sheets of square paper for this one. Make a few and add them to a vase for a handmade origami flower arrangement. If you are eager to learn even more ways to make origami blossoms, you'll find all sorts of designs, from lotus flowers to lilies and more.

  Continue to 5 of 10 below

• 05 of 10

  See Also

  Traditional Washi Paper: From Japan to the World | Web Japan

  Envelope Wallet

  

  Thisuseful origami envelope walletis quick and easy to make. Use thewallet to keep your cash, business cards, or stash store receipts and coupons inside. Make it as a gift for a friend or relative using a piece of paper in their favorite color.

• 06 of 10

  Square Candy/Snack Box

  

  This origami box, perfect for candy or snacks, is tapered at the top so anything inside will stay put. These boxes take a bit longer than a regular masu box, but the result is worth the time. Consider making these as party favors for a special event.

• 07 of 10

  Tissue Holder

  

  This is a nifty origami tissue paper holder for your handbag. It's a cinch to make when you followthe origami diagram. When you're done, use your tissue holder to store folded tissues to can be pulled out neatly. This design can also double as a cardholder.

• 08 of 10

  Fan

  

  These origami fanscouldn't be easier to make.They're great decorations for parties and weddings. You can also make little origami earrings with this tutorial. Consider making special gifts for friends by using richly patterned chiyogami paper.

  Continue to 9 of 10 below

• 09 of 10

  Boat

  

  This traditional origami boat is perfect for a beginner origami project. It's also a wonderful toy, as it can float on water. Fold several to create a bathtub fleet for a child.Hint: To make the paper boat move through the water, put a drop of liquid soap at the back of the boat. The changing surface tension will propel the boat forward.

• 10 of 10

  Paper Plane

  

  Learn how to fold an easy paper plane. It's a great activity for kids and the steps are simple to remember after following the diagram a few times. This particular plane is officially an origami project, but there are many ways to fold paper planes to create unique designs and flight patterns.