The finished model has a clean cylindrical body with a pointed flame rising from the center. The contrast between the round candle and the sharp triangular flame gives it a simple but recognizable shape.

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner level 3
• Folding time: 5 minutes

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Each point starts with a square sheet and comes together to create a clean, dimensional star.

It’s perfect for beginners or anyone in the mood for a quick, eye-catching decoration.

The folds are simple, the assembly is easy, and the finished star works great as part of your seasonal decor.

You can stick with a single color for a classic look, or mix five colors to make it more playful or festive, just like I did.

Origami 5-Pointed Star Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 2
• Folding time: 10 minutes

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper facing up in a diamond position. Fold and unfold along the vertical diagonal.

Step 2

Fold the bottom left and bottom right edges in to meet the centerline.

Step 3

Fold the top corner down to meet the left corner, then unfold. Repeat for the right corner.

Step 4

Make an inside reverse fold on the right corner area. The top flap will rest over the left flap.

Step 5

Untuck the left flap so it sits on top.

Step 6

Reinforce the creases you already made (2 valley folds and 1 mountain fold).

Step 7

Repeat Steps 1 to 6 four more times. You’ll end up with 5 identical units.

Note: From this step on, I’m switching to 5×5 cm (2×2 in) kami so it fits better in the camera frame.

Step 8

Take two units. Slide the triangular flap of one unit behind the right flap of the other unit.

Step 9

Tuck the triangular flap of the right unit in between the top layers of the left unit’s right flap.

Step 10

Repeat the same connection three more times with the remaining units to complete the star.

Folding tip: Use clips to keep the units in place while assembling. It helps keep things aligned!

The Completed Origami 5-Pointed Star

I hope you enjoyed folding this star. It’s one of those models that’s quick to make and always looks good, whether you hang it up or use it as a holiday decoration.

For more tutorials like this one, don’t forget to join our newsletter to get beautiful new models sent straight to your inbox.

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It’s folded from a hexagon, and while it might seem intricate at first, it’s totally doable for beginners with a bit of folding experience.

The most delicate part is getting a clean hexagon, but don’t worry, we show you how to make one from either rectangular paper or square paper in our tutorials.

Try it with white, translucent, or duo-colored paper to highlight its elegant symmetry.

Take your time with the folds and enjoy the process. It’s a great project for slowing down and focusing.

Origami Snowflake Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 5
• Folding time: 20 minutes
• Model designer: Shuzo Fujimoto
• Paper: Hexagonal Kami or printing paper
  • How to make a hexagon from rectangular paper
  • How to make a hexagon from a square sheet

Step 1

Fold and unfold the three diagonal lines from corner to opposite corner.

Step 2

Fold and unfold the three center lines from one edge to the opposite edge.

Step 3

Fold each corner to the center point, then unfold. Then, turn the paper over.

Folding tip: Make sure your fold line runs exactly from corner to corner.

Step 4

Reverse fold along the dashed crease. Repeat for the five remaining corners, then turn the paper over.

Step 5

Fold the top right corner to the center point.

Step 6

Swivel fold along the existing creases.

Step 7

Repeat Step 6 for the five remaining corners.

Step 8

Squash fold one of the top flaps created in Step 7.

Step 9

Squash fold the remaining five flaps.

Step 10

Fold the right flap over to the left.

Step 11

Fold the left corners of the two flaps to the center point, then unfold.

Step 12

Repeat Steps 10 and 11 for all remaining flaps.

Step 13

Turn the model over.

Step 14

Fold and unfold each corner to the center point.

Folding tip: Again, check that your fold lines go neatly from corner to corner.

Step 15

Fold the bottom right corner to the center point.

Step 16

Repeat Step 15 four more times, moving counterclockwise.

Step 17

Fold and unfold the bottom corner to the center, using the existing crease.

Step 18

Swivel fold as shown. Tuck the right area under the nearest triangle.

Step 19

Turn the model over.

Step 20

Lift up the flap, open the top layers, and squash fold them down.

Step 21

Repeat Step 20 five more times for the remaining flaps.

Step 22

Turn the model over.

Step 23

Mountain fold as shown. Repeat this 11 more times for each remaining flap.

The Completed Origami Snowflake!

I hope you enjoyed folding this one as much as I did, and that you’ll find the perfect spot to display your snowflake — on a window, your Christmas tree, or as part of your holiday decor.

And if you haven’t yet, check out our YouTube channel for more tutorials, or join our newsletter to get beautiful models like this one sent straight to your inbox.

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It’s easy to learn, but just challenging enough to be satisfying, making it a perfect fold for a quiet coffee break. The finished camellia has a lovely color change at the center.

With a few light squash folds, you can even open up the inner flaps and reveal a second, more subtle color change, echoing the flower’s pistils.

Origami Camellia Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 3
• Folding time: 5 minutes

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper facing up. Fold and unfold both diagonals.

Step 2

Fold the bottom edge up to meet the diagonal crease.

Step 3

Fold the right edge to the diagonal crease. Use the reference point as a guide.

Step 4

Fold the top edge to the diagonal crease. Again, use the reference point as a guide.

Step 5

Fold the left edge over to where the layers overlap.

Step 6

Fold the top left corner to the right, using the reference point and existing creases as guides. You’ll need to reverse fold the bottom left part of the model.

Step 7

Fold the bottom flap upward along the existing creases. Align the edges, then squash fold.

Step 8

Repeat the same squash fold for the left flap.

Step 9

Repeat the same squash fold for the top flap.

Step 10

Untuck the flap located at the top right of the model and move it to the top.

Step 11

Fold the flap from Step 10 to the left using the existing creases as guides. Align the edges, then squash fold.

Step 12

Tuck all the triangle tips into the flaps underneath them.

Step 13

At the center, gently fold all corners outward.

Folding tip: You can lightly squash these new flaps to create a color change that looks like the center of a camellia (pistil).

The Completed Traditional Origami Camellia

Whether you folded a bold red bloom or a softer pastel version, we hope this camellia brought a bit of calm and color to your day. It’s a simple pleasure to fold and even more enjoyable when shared.

For more relaxing tutorials like this one, subscribe to our YouTube channel and join our newsletter. We’d love to fold with you again soon.

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Unlike the classic crane with its tucked wings and level stance, this model opens dramatically. The wings sweep upward and outward, almost like a fan, giving the model an expressive, celebratory feel.

If you use patterned chiyogami paper, like I did on the featured photo, the design beautifully reveals itself across the wide tail.

The folding sequence is not difficult but offers a few interesting twists, especially for those who have folded a traditional crane before.

Traditional Origami Celebration Crane Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 3
• Folding time: 10 minutes

Step 1

Start with the paper in a diamond position. The color facing up will appear on the crane’s body and back wings (or feathers). Fold and unfold both diagonals. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 2

Fold and unfold side to side, both directions.

Step 3

Collapse the paper along the existing creases to form a Square base.

Step 4

Fold the bottom left and right edges in to meet the centerline, then unfold.

Step 5

Fold the top corner down along the dotted line and unfold. This crease should run horizontally where the Step 4 creases intersect with the top edges.

Step 6

Bring the bottom corner (top layer only) up and Petal fold along the existing creases.

Step 7

Turn the model over.

Step 8

Fold the top right edge of the square to the centerline. Then, unfold.

Step 9

Fold the new crease (from Step 8) inward so it aligns with the centerline.

Step 10

Fold the top flap along the crease made in Step 8.

Step 11

Fold the top flap right edge inward to meet the centerline.

Step 12

Unfold everything from Steps 8 to 11.

Step 13

Squash fold along the vertical crease. Use a mountain fold on the nearest crease next to the vertical one.

Step 14

Repeat another Squash fold following the same steps as Step 13.

Step 15

Squash fold one more time using the same steps.

Step 16

Flip three flaps from left to right.

Step 17

Repeat Steps 8 to 16 on the left side.

Step 18

Fold the center flap down along the horizontal crease in the middle.

Step 19

Fold the entire model in half from right to left.

Step 20

Rotate the model 90° counterclockwise.

Step 21

Fold the bottom right edge in to the centerline. Crease well and unfold.

Step 22

Outside reverse fold along the crease from Step 21.

Step 23

Fold the top right edge down to meet the horizontal crease. Then, unfold.

Step 24

Inside reverse fold along the crease from Step 23.

Step 25

Rotate the model 90° counterclockwise.

Step 26

Fold the top corner to the left. Crease well and unfold.

Folding tip: This will become the crane’s head. There’s no exact reference point, so adjust the angle to your liking!

Step 27

Inside reverse fold along the crease made in Step 26.

Step 28

Gently spread the wings (or feathers) outward to shape your crane.

The completed origami celebration crane!

Your origami celebration crane is complete, and it truly lives up to its name.

With its open, elevated wings and sculptural form, this model feels full of energy and intention.

If you would like to share your crane, tag us on social media or leave a comment. We would love to see it. And if you’re ready for another project, feel free to subscribe to our YouTube channel or join our newsletter for more.

Other Origami Cranes:

Traditional Origami Crane

Origami Sitting Crane

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This model is cute and super simple, making it perfect for beginners. With just a few folds and only about 5 minutes, you’ll create a lovely paper angel that’s great for holiday decorations, gift toppers, or as a thoughtful handmade token.

Grab your origami paper, and let’s get started!

Origami Angel Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 1
• Folding time: 5 minutes

Step 1

Fold and unfold along the diagonals.

Step 2

Fold the bottom-left and bottom-right edges to the center line. Then, unfold.

Step 3

Turn the paper over.

Step 4

Fold the bottom corner up along the dotted line. The bottom edges should align with reference points.

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Step 5

Mountain fold the bottom layer along the horizontal diagonal crease created in Step 1.

Step 6

Fold the left edge of the top flap to the center line.

Step 7

Fold the top flap along the dotted line to create the first wing. Adjust the angle to your taste.

Step 8

Mirror Steps 6 and 7 on the right side to create the second wing.

Step 9

Fold the top corner along the dotted line to meet the reference point.

Step 10

Fold the bottom corner up along the dotted line, using the bottom edges of the colored paper as guides.

Step 11

Slightly fold the model in half so it can stand on its own. Then, turn the model over.

The Completed Origami Angel

Congratulations on making your very own origami angel!

Whether you use it as part of a festive display or gift it to someone special, your angel is sure to spread happiness.

Don’t hesitate to share your creations with us in comments or on social media. We’d love to see them!

Check out Nick’s website to find more of his amazing work and books!

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With just a few simple folds, you’ll create a charming 3D star that’s small enough to use as decorations, gifts, or even as part of a larger craft project.

To get started, you’ll need long, thin strips of paper—about 10 to 11 inches (25 cm) long and 3/4 of an inch (2 cm) wide for standard-sized stars. Thinner strips create smaller stars, while wider ones result in larger stars.

The key to a perfect paper star is keeping your folds neat and tight so it will puff up beautifully at the end.

Ready to fold your way to a pile of tiny origami stars? Let’s get started with this step-by-step guide!

Origami Lucky Star Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 2
• Folding time: Under 5 minutes

Step 1

Start with a long, narrow strip of paper. The exact measurements are not important. Form a loop at one end of the strip.

Pull the loop through, leaving only a small strip of paper at the end.

Step 2

Flatten the loop so that it forms a pentagonal shape.

Step 3

Tuck the remaining small strip of paper under the two top layers of the loop.

Step 4

Flip the model around.

Step 5

Fold the pentagonal portion down, aligning the top left edge with the width of the long strip.

Step 6

Fold down the pentagonal portion again, aligning the top right edge with the strip. Note that the edge being aligned is different from that of Step 5.

Step 7

Continue to repeat Steps 5 and 6, alternating the edges that are lined up. Stop when there is only a small strip remaining.

Step 8

Tuck the small remaining strip under the top two layers, similar to Step 3.

Step 9

And now, the fun part! Pinch at the corners to puff up the star.

The Completed Origami Lucky Star

And there you have it—your very own 3-D paper star!

These stars add a touch of magic to any occasion. I hope you enjoyed making them and feel inspired to create dozens more.

Feel free to share your creations with us in the comments or on socials!

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The origami lantern is super easy to fold, making it perfect for beginners. Let’s get started!

Origami Lantern Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 2
• Folding time: Less than 5 minutes

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper facing up. Fold both diagonals in half and unfold.

Step 2

Fold the four corners to the center point and turn the paper over.

Step 3

Similar to the previous step, fold the four corners to the center point and turn the paper over.

Step 4

One last time, fold the four corners to the center point and turn the paper over.

Step 5

Open up the two flaps at the top while lifting up along the dotted lines. Make a swivel fold and push everything flat.

Repeat the same on the opposite corner, at the bottom.

The Completed Origami Lantern

Congratulations on completing your paper lantern!

Feel free to play around with different paper textures, colors, and sizes to add more fun. Here we used a beautiful chiyogami (patterned paper).

And don’t forget to share your origami birds with us in the comments or on social media. Happy folding!

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Whether you’re decorating for a seasonal display, a themed party, or simply engaging in a calming craft, our step-by-step guide will help you bring this charming creature to life.

This traditional model is great for beginners and can be folded in less than 5 minutes. I’ll also give you a tip on how to make a reverse fold easily.

Traditional Origami Penguin Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Very Easy – Beginner Level 2
• Folding time: Less than 5 minutes

Step 1

Start with the colored side facing up, with the paper in a diamond position (so a corner points up).

Fold and unfold the paper in half diagonally (top corner to bottom corner). Then, turn the paper over.

Step 2

Fold the top edges inward, but don’t fold all the way to the centerline. Leave a gap between the edges (see the next diagram for reference).

Step 3

Turn the paper over.

Step 4

Fold the side corners inward along the dotted lines.

Step 5

Fold the bottom corner up, using the bottom corners of the flaps from Step 4 as a guide.

Step 6

Fold the paper in half vertically, using the crease you made back in Step 1.

Step 7

Make an outside reverse fold at the top corner to form the penguin’s head.

Folding tip: Make this step easier by pre-creasing the head using a valley fold and a mountain fold at the same level on both sides as shown in the video.

The Completed Origami Penguin

Great work! Your paper penguin is complete, standing proudly with its sleek shape and charming character.

Keep experimenting with different colors and patterns, and use your penguin as part of a seasonal decoration, classroom activity, or just as a delightful craft.

Feel free to share your creations with us in the comments or on socials. We’d love to see them!

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The traditional origami owl offers an interesting way to practice your folding (and cutting) skills.

Don’t worry if this model seems a bit trickier. We’ll guide you step by step as we turn a simple sheet of paper into a wise little owl.

Traditional Origami Owl Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 4
• Folding time: 15-20 minutes
• Material: This traditional model requires the use of scissors

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper up. Fold in half vertically, then unfold.

Step 2

Fold and unfold horizontally in half. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 3

Fold and unfold along the diagonals.

Step 4

Rotate the paper 45 degrees clockwise and turn it over.

Step 5

Collapse along the existing creases to form a Square Base.

Step 6

Fold and unfold along the dotted lines.

Step 7

Petal fold by bringing the bottom corner up and folding along the creases made in Step 6.

Step 8

Turn the model over and repeat Steps 6 to 7 on the other side.

Step 9

Fold the top flap down. The, repeat on the other side.

Step 10

Fold the top edges to the centerline. The, repeat on the other side.

Step 11

Gently pull the middle right flap outward.

Lift it up and pivot it toward you so it lies flat. Adjust the angle as needed and press to flatten.

Step 12

Repeat Step 11 on the left side.

Step 13

Time to fold the owl’s head! Make a pleat by folding the tip once with a valley fold, then again with a mountain fold.

Step 14

Fold the tip down along the dotted line.

Step 15

Make a small cut along the centerline of the top layer only.

Step 16

Fold the flaps up to form the talons.

Step 17

Turn the model over.

Step 18

On each side, make a cut along the dotted lines on the top layer only.
Lift the flaps to form the ear tufts. Then, turn the model over.

The Completed Origami Owl

Congratulations on folding your very own origami owl!

This lovely paper owl will make a perfect addition to your origami collection or a great handmade gift.

I hope you had fun with the process and feel inspired to keep exploring other origami models.

Feel free to share your creations with us in the comments or on socials!

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