Useful Origami: Step-by-Step Instructions &#8211; Origami.me

Step 1

Start with a 2×1 rectangle (half of a square) with the white side facing up. Fold and unfold in half both vertically and horizontally.

Step 2

Fold the bottom edge up to the horizontal centerline. Pinch a small mark at the right edge, then unfold.

Step 3

Fold the bottom edge up again, this time to the pinch mark you just made.

Step 4

Turn the paper over.

Step 5

Fold both bottom corners in to meet the vertical centerline.

Step 6

Turn the model over.

Step 7

Fold the bottom corner up to the nearest horizontal centerline.

Step 8

Turn the paper over.

Step 9

Lift the bottom right flap and squash it flat.

Step 10

Repeat on the left side.

Step 11

Fold the bottom left and right corners in to meet the nearest vertical crease.

Step 12

Fold both bottom corners up to the nearest horizontal line.

Step 13

Fold the right edge to the centerline, then unfold.

Step 14

Fold the bottom right corner along the edge of the heart, starting at the circle point.

Step 15

Mountain fold the top section down along the dashed line.

Step 16

Rotate the model 90° clockwise.

Step 17

Turn the model over.

Step 18

Fold both the top and bottom edges along the dashed lines.

Step 19

Fold the right edge to the nearest vertical line, then unfold.

Step 20

Fold the top right corner in to meet the nearest corner.

Step 21

Fold the bottom right corner up along the diagonal of the square area.

Step 22

Mountain fold the top strip into the pocket behind.

Step 23

Gently spread the layers and turn the model over.

The Completed Origami Heart Corner Bookmark

Once you’ve folded one, you’ll probably want to make a few more. It’s quick, practical, and just cute enough to bring a smile. Try it in your favorite colors or patterned paper and see what works best.

If you’re up for more paper love, don’t miss our Valentine’s origami selection.

And if you want to learn more beautiful designs like this, subscribe to our origami YouTube channel or join our newsletter to get fresh tutorials right in your inbox.

Download the Complete Origami Heart Corner Bookmark Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.

The post How to Fold an Origami Heart Corner Bookmark appeared first on Origami.me.

How to Fold an Origami Heart Envelope

Florent Fabre — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 16:23:52 +0000

This origami heart envelope was designed by the late Francis Ow, whose heart-themed creations continue to inspire folders around the world.

Folded from a single rectangle, this sweet design transforms a simple sheet of paper into an envelope locked with a heart. It’s not difficult, but it does require a bit of folding experience.

I recommend starting with a square and cutting it in half. That way, you can make two envelopes at once, perfect for sending a little love to more than one person.

Origami Heart Envelope Step-by-Step Instructions

Difficulty: Easy – Beginner level 4
Folding time: 10-15 minutes

Recommended Paper

24×24 cm (9.5×9.5 in) Kami cut in half. This will make a 6x3x3 cm (2.4×1.2×1.2 in) box.

Step 1

Start with a 2×1 rectangle (half of a square), colored side facing up. Fold and unfold in half vertically and horizontally. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 2

Fold the left and right edges to the centerline, but only crease the top half. Then unfold.

Step 3

Fold the top edge down to meet the centerline.

Step 4

Fold and unfold the top edge to the nearest horizontal line (A). Then, unfold everything (B).

Folding tip: When doing step A, hold the layers together firmly so they don’t move.

Step 5

Fold the top edge down along the third horizontal line from the top.

Step 6

Fold the top left and right corners in so their points meet the nearest corners.

Step 7

Mountain fold the top layer’s left and right edges inward to the centerline.

Step 8

Fold the bottom edge up to the nearest horizontal line. Then unfold.

Step 9

Fold the colored rectangle in half (bottom to top), then unfold.

Step 10

Mountain fold the top colored section at the back. The top flap should lift up as you do this.

Step 11

Fold the top edge down to the nearest horizontal crease.

Step 12

Turn the model over.

Step 13

Fold the left and right edges of the colored flap to the centerline. Only crease the top part.

Step 14

Fold the top corners in so they meet the vertical centerline. Only crease halfway along the length. Unfold, then turn the model over.

Step 15

Pleat the top colored flap downward.

Step 16

Fold in the bottom corners of the colored rectangle.

Step 17

Mountain fold both the left and right edges inward.

Step 18

Tuck the bottom part of the top flap into the pocket underneath.

Step 19

Fold the top flap down along the top edge.

Step 20

Lift the top square flap and make a swivel fold by pushing its bottom left corner in and rotating the square upward.

Step 21

Repeat on the right side. Then, turn the model over.

Step 22

For each square, fold the top corners in to meet at the center point.

Folding tip: Make a small pinch at the center of the top edge as a reference. Start with corner “B” and align it with the diagonal crease. You can now use this first fold as a reference for the remaining folds.

Step 23

Fold the top corners down to meet the nearest horizontal line.

Step 24

Rotate the model 180°.

Step 25

Fold the bottom edge up along the nearest horizontal crease.

Step 26

Fold and unfold the left and right edges so they align with each side of the heart.

Step 27

Fold along the diagonals of the bottom-left and bottom-right rectangles.

Step 28

Fold along the creases made in Step 26.

Step 29

Fold along the diagonals of the top-left and top-right rectangles.

Step 30

Fold the top edge down along the existing crease. Then tuck the flap under the heart to close the envelope.

The completed origami Heart Envelope

This envelope is a great way to add a handmade touch to your messages, whether it’s for Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just because.

Try it with contrasting colors like we did here, or go for something more subtle and monochrome.

And if you enjoyed folding this design, check out more Valentine’s Day origami creations, including Francis Ow’s origami heart card and the heart box, which all pair beautifully together.

Download the Complete Origami Heart Envelope Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.

The post How to Fold an Origami Heart Envelope appeared first on Origami.me.

How to Fold an Origami Heart Box

Florent Fabre — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 21:05:47 +0000

This origami heart box is another lovely creation by Francis Ow, and it’s actually built on top of his origami heart card design. If you’ve already folded the card, you’re halfway there. Just keep going, and you’ll end up with this sweet little box.

It’s easy to fold, and the result is perfect for holding a small note, chocolate, or other tiny gift. We’re using half of a square sheet here, just like for the card, so you can get two boxes out of one sheet of origami paper.

Origami Heart Box Step-by-Step Instructions

Difficulty: Easy – Beginner level 4
Folding time: 15 minutes

Recommended Paper

24×24 cm (9.5×9.5 in) Kami cut in half. This will make a 6x3x3 cm (2.4×1.2×1.2 in) box.

Step 1

Start with a 2×1 rectangle (half of a square) with the colored side facing up. Fold and unfold the paper in half both vertically and horizontally. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 2

Fold the bottom edge up to the centerline.

Step 3

Fold and unfold the bottom edge to the nearest horizontal line (A). Then, unfold everything (B).

Folding tip: When doing step A, hold the layers together firmly so they don’t move.

Step 4

Fold the bottom edge up along the crease you just made.

Step 5

Turn the paper over.

Step 6

Pleat fold as shown:

Valley fold along the horizontal centerline.
Mountain fold the nearest horizontal line.

Step 7

Fold and unfold the bottom corners inward to meet the vertical centerline. Crease only the bottom section as shown in the diagram.

Step 8

Fold the top right corner of the top flap down to meet the nearest horizontal line. Then, unfold.

Step 9

Inside reverse fold along the crease you just made.

Step 10

Fold the flap you just created to the left.

Step 11

Repeat Steps 8 to 10 on the left side.

Step 12

Turn the model over from top to bottom.

Step 13

Fold the colored flap down.

Step 14

Lift the top square flap and make a swivel fold by pushing its bottom left corner in and rotating the square upward.

Step 15

Repeat Step 14 on the right side.

Step 16

Turn the model over.

Step 17

For each square area, fold the top corners inward so they meet at the center.

Folding tip: Make a small pinch mark at the center of the top edge as a guide. Start by folding corner B, and align it with the diagonal line. You can now use this first fold as a reference for the remaining folds.

Step 18

Fold the top corners down to meet the nearest horizontal line.

Step 19

Fold and unfold the left and right edges to the vertical centerline.

Step 20

Make three horizontal folds to complete the 4×4 grid.

Step 21

Fold and unfold along the diagonal of each square (4 total). Then, turn the model over.

Step 22

Fold the top edge down to the nearest horizontal line. Crease only at the edge level on both sides, then unfold. Turn the model over again.

Step 23

Collapse as shown. The heart will move 90° upward as the sides fold inward.

Folding tip: For the box collapse (Steps 23 to 27), always glance at the next step to preview what your folds should look like. Pay close attention to how the layers are arranged and where they’re supposed to sit.

Step 24

Fold both sides up at a 90° angle.

Note: From Steps 24 to 27, the heart is not shown in the diagrams so you can focus on the box structure.

Step 25

Collapse as shown. This step is similar to Step 23.

Step 26

Fold both sides up again at a 90° angle.

Step 27

Lock the box by folding the remaining flap inward.

Folding tip: You’ll need to press all sides at the same time to secure it in place. Then, gently roll the paper between your fingers to adjust everything neatly. You can also use a pen or bone folder to shape the inner corners of the box.

The Completed Origami Heart Box

I hope you enjoyed turning the card into this little heart box! It’s a thoughtful handmade touch for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or just because.

If you haven’t already, check out our Valentine’s Day origami collection. And for more creative ideas like this, subscribe to our YouTube channel or join our origami newsletter to get fresh tutorials sent your way.

Download the Complete Origami Heart Box Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.

The post How to Fold an Origami Heart Box appeared first on Origami.me.

How to Fold an Origami Heart Card

Florent Fabre — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:10:08 +0000

This lovely origami heart card was designed by the late Francis Ow, an origami artist best known for his heartfelt creations. It’s a simple but thoughtful model he called the Valentine’s Dutch Card, and it makes a perfect little gift for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any occasion when you want to send a bit of love.

It’s folded from a 1×2 rectangle. Here, we’re using half of a square sheet, so you can make two cards from one square of origami paper. The model is quick to fold and works great as a personalized message card.

Bonus: this design is also the starting point for an origami heart box! So if you enjoy this one, check out our heart box tutorial linked below.

Origami Heart Card Step-by-Step Instructions

Difficulty: Easy – Beginner level 3
Folding time: 10 minutes

Recommended Paper

24×24 cm (9.5×9.5 in) Kami cut in half. This will make a 12×12 cm (4.8×4.8 in) card.

Step 1

Start with a 2×1 rectangle (half of a square) with the colored side facing up. Fold and unfold the paper in half both vertically and horizontally. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 2

Fold the bottom edge up to the centerline.

Step 3

Fold and unfold the bottom edge to the nearest horizontal line (A). Then, unfold everything (B).

Folding tip: When doing step A, hold the layers together firmly so they don’t move.

Step 4

Fold the bottom edge up along the crease you just made.

Step 5

Turn the paper over.

Step 6

Pleat fold as shown:

Valley fold along the horizontal centerline.
Mountain fold the nearest horizontal line.

Step 7

Fold and unfold the bottom corners inward to meet the vertical centerline. Crease only the bottom section as shown in the diagram.

Step 8

Fold the top right corner of the top flap down to meet the nearest horizontal line. Then, unfold.

Step 9

Inside reverse fold along the crease you just made.

Step 10

Fold the flap you just created to the left.

Step 11

Repeat Steps 8 to 10 on the left side.

Step 12

Turn the model over from top to bottom.

Step 13

Fold the colored flap down.

Step 14

Lift the top square flap and make a swivel fold by pushing its bottom left corner in and rotating the square upward.

Step 15

Repeat Step 14 on the right side.

Step 16

Turn the model over.

Step 17

For each square area, fold the top corners inward so they meet at the center.

Step 18

Fold the top corners down to meet the nearest horizontal line.

The Completed Origami Heart Card

I hope you enjoyed folding this heart card and that it finds its way to someone special.

If you’re up for more paper love, don’t miss our Valentine’s origami selection.

And if you want to learn more beautiful designs like this, subscribe to our origami YouTube channel or join our newsletter to get fresh tutorials right in your inbox.

Download the Complete Origami Heart Card Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.

The post How to Fold an Origami Heart Card appeared first on Origami.me.

How to Fold an Origami Candy Box

Florent Fabre — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:36:52 +0000

This traditional origami candy box is one of those quick, delightful models that’s just as useful as it is fun to fold.

With its shallow depth and gentle pyramidal shape at the base, it’s perfect for holding small treats, paper clips, or any tiny treasures.

The folding sequence is very beginner-friendly with no tricky steps, just a clean, satisfying result.

A great project if you’re just starting out or want something easy to share with kids.

Origami Candy Box Step-by-Step Instructions

Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 3
Folding time: 5-10 minutes

Recommended Paper

15×15 cm (6×6 in) Kami

printable Instructions

Step 1

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

Step 2

Turn the paper over.

Step 3

Fold and unfold from side to side, left and right.

Step 4

Collapse the paper along the existing creases, bringing the corners together from bottom to top, to form a square base.

Step 5

Fold the top corner down to meet the bottom corner (just one layer). Repeat on the other side.

Step 6

Flip the top left flap over to the right. Repeat on the other side.

Step 7

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

Step 8

Flip the top right flap over to the left.

Step 9

Turn the model over.

Step 10

Fold the top left and right edges in to the centerline, just like before.

Step 11

Flip the top right flap over to the left.

Step 12

Fold the bottom corner up (just one layer). The crease should run from the left to the right corner. Repeat on the other side.

Step 13

Fold the top flap’s top corner down to meet the nearest horizontal line.

Step 14

Tuck the top flap into the pocket underneath.

Folding tip: Hold all layers together while tucking them in the pocket.

Step 15

Flip the top left flap to the right. Repeat on the other side.

Step 16

Fold the top corner down to meet the bottom corner.

Step 17

Fold the top flap’s bottom corner up. Your crease should line up with the bottom edge of the layer beneath.

Step 18

Fold the top flap’s top corner down to meet the nearest horizontal line.

Step 19

Tuck the top flap into the pocket underneath.

Step 20

Repeat Steps 16 to 19 on the other side.

Step 21

Fold the bottom corner up along the central horizontal line. Crease well, then unfold.

Step 22

Open the box by gently spreading the top layers apart. At the same time, push the bottom section upward to flatten it into shape.

Sweet! Your origami candy box is ready.

We hope you enjoyed folding this sweet little box!

Try making a few in different colors to create a cheerful collection for your desk or table.

If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out our YouTube channel for more relaxing tutorials and sign up for our newsletter to get new models, folding tips, and inspiration every week.

Download the Complete Origami Candy Box Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.

The post How to Fold an Origami Candy Box appeared first on Origami.me.

How to Fold an Origami Hexagonal Box

Florent Fabre — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:53:01 +0000

This elegant hexagonal box was designed by Nick Robinson, based on a model by the legendary Shuzo Fujimoto.

While the original is folded from a full square, Nick’s clever adaptation begins with just half a square and greatly simplifies the folding sequence and collapse.

The result is more accessible, quicker to fold, and just as satisfying, without losing the beauty of the geometric forms.

And since it only uses half a square, you can fold two boxes from a single sheet of paper.

Origami Hexagonal Box Step-by-Step Instructions

Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
Folding time: 20 minutes

Recommended Paper

Printer paper or Kami 24×24 cm (9.5×9.5 in) for a 6x5x3 cm (≈ 2.4x2x1.2 in) box. This is good for a first fold. Go for something thicker for a more usable box.

For the tutorial, we used 24×24 cm (9×9 in) Japanese Kraft Duplex 100 g/m².

Step 1

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

Step 2

Cut along the crease you just made.

Step 3

Fold the piece in half vertically again, then unfold.

Folding tip: This model needs sharp creases. Use your nail or a folding tool to press down each fold firmly.

Step 4

Fold in half horizontally, then unfold.

Step 5

Fold the top and bottom edges to meet the center crease.

Step 6

Fold the top and bottom edges again, this time to meet the creases you just made in Step 5.

Step 7

Fold and unfold the bottom edge to the second crease from the top. Then do the same for the top edge, folding it to the second crease from the bottom.

Step 8

Fold the bottom left corner to the circled point, but only crease the left edge. Start the fold from the bottom right corner.

Step 9

Rotate the model 90° counterclockwise. Then, fold the bottom edge up to the reference point you made in Step 8.

Step 10

Fold the top left edge to the nearest vertical crease.

Step 11

Fold the top edge down to the horizontal centerline.

Step 12

Reinforce all the vertical creases in the top colored section. Then turn the model over.

Step 13

Reinforce all vertical creases in the bottom section. Then turn the model over again.

Step 14

Rotate the model 90° clockwise.

Step 15

Fold and unfold a diagonal crease across the bottom left rectangle.

Step 16

Repeat Step 15 for all rectangular sections.

Folding tip: If you’re comfortable with mountain folds, try turning the model over and creasing while holding it mid-air. It helps you make cleaner, more accurate folds.

Step 17

Fold the right section up, forming a 90° angle with the left section.

Step 18

Collapse the paper along the existing creases as shown.

Step 19

Repeat Step 18 for all sections.

Folding tip: The more you fold, the harder it gets to collapse each section, especially as they start to sit on the edge of the box. Keep going! They’ll eventually all fit into place.

Step 20

Turn the model over.

Step 21

Swivel fold the dotted area inside the box.

Folding tip: This part is tricky. If you’re not sure how to swivel the flap into the box, watch the video for guidance.

Step 22

Turn the model over again.

Step 23

Tuck one side of the box under the other.

Folding tip: Use the tip of your folding tool to help lift and move the flap. It’s a tight fit, so don’t hesitate to unfold things a bit, then refold them.

The completed origami hexagonal box!

Challenge: Want to go a step further? Try folding a matching lid!

To do this, simply cut a slightly smaller rectangle (just a few millimeters narrower on each side) to form the base. You can also create a shorter lid by folding the flap from Step 11 in half.

We’d love to see what you create! Share your version with a lid in the comments or tag us on social media.

And if you enjoy elegant origami like this, don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel and newsletter for more tutorials, tips, and inspiration each week.

Download the Complete Origami Hexagonal Box Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.

The post How to Fold an Origami Hexagonal Box appeared first on Origami.me.

How to Fold an Origami Lazy Susan

Florent Fabre — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 10:34:28 +0000

This clever origami Lazy  Susan is a great example of functional folding. With five neat compartments, it’s perfect for holding paperclips, candy, or other little desk items.

The model first appeared in the 1963 book The Best of Origami by Samuel Randlett, and it has become a classic ever since. Most of the folds are beginner-friendly, but the final shaping step, where you open and round the compartments, can be a little tricky the first time.

You can watch our video where we show you exactly how to get it right. Once you’ve folded one, you’ll want to make more for every corner of your home or workspace!

Origami Lazy Susan Step-by-Step Instructions

Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 4
Folding time: 5-10 minutes

Recommended Paper

20×20 cm (8x8in) Tant

printable Instructions

Step 1

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

Step 2

Turn the paper over.

Step 3

Fold and unfold from side to side, both horizontally and vertically.

Step 4

Fold the bottom left corner to meet the centerpoint.

Step 5

Repeat Step 4 on all remaining corners.

Step 6

Fold each corner to the middle of the edge.

Step 7

Fold and unfold the bottom corner to meet the center point. Repeat on all remaining corners. Then, rotate 90° clockwise.

Step 8

Turn the model over.

Step 9

Fold and unfold each side to the center line.

Step 10

Fold the top and bottom edges to the center line.

Step 11

Open the layer on the left and collapse along the existing creases.

Step 12

Repeat Step 11 on the right side.

Step 13

Mountain fold in half from right to left.

Step 14

Rotate the model 90° counterclockwise.

Step 15

Inside reverse fold the left corner inward.

Step 16

Repeat Step 15 on all remaining corners.

Step 17

Place a finger in the first pocket facing you and open it by pushing the top edge down.

Step 18

Repeat Step 17 on all remaining sides. Then, turn the model over.

Folding tip: Try to shape all pockets the same way. After turning the model over, you can round the top edge further with your nails or the edge of a bone folder.

The Completed Origami Lazy Susan

Going Further: How to Get Rounder Edges?

With Kami, the center of your Lazy Susan might look a bit star-shaped. To soften that look and get rounder edges, try using thicker paper like Tant. You can also skip Step 1.

This will make the folding process a bit trickier, but the final result will have smoother, rounder shapes.

I hope you enjoyed crafting your origami Lazy  Susan!

For more tutorials, tips, and seasonal paper‑projects, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter so you won’t miss what’s next in the folding lineup.

And if you fold this Lazy Susan, feel free to share it in the comments below. We’d love to see them!

Download the Complete Origami Lazy Susan Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.

The post How to Fold an Origami Lazy Susan appeared first on Origami.me.

How to Fold an Origami Witch Hat Bookmark

Florent Fabre — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 09:59:17 +0000

This clever origami witch hat bookmark by Francesco Mancini is a fun and practical model, perfect for Halloween season, or for marking your spot in a favorite fantasy novel any time of year.

With its playful shape and useful form, it also makes a charming gift or seasonal craft, especially when folded in dark purple, black, or starry-patterned paper.

The folding sequence requires a bit of precision, but it’s very accessible to anyone with a little origami experience.

The final result slips neatly over the corner of your page, with the iconic pointed hat displayed at the front, adding a touch of magic to your reading time.

Origami Witch Hat Bookmark Step-by-Step Instructions

Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 3
Folding time: 5-10 minutes

Recommended Paper

15×15 cm (6×6 in) Kami

Printable Instructions

Watch Video

Step 1

Start with the colored side of the paper facing you. Fold and unfold both diagonals.

Step 2

Turn the paper over.

Step 3

Fold and unfold the paper in half horizontally, then vertically.

Step 4

Fold the bottom corner up to the center point.

Step 5

Collapse the model along the existing creases.

Step 6

Fold the bottom corner up to meet the top corner.

Step 7

Fold the top corner down to meet the horizontal crease. Then unfold.

Step 8

Fold the top corner down again. This time, the crease you just made should line up with the center horizontal crease.

Step 9

Flip the top right flap over to the left.

Step 10

Fold the bottom corner up to meet the top corner. Then unfold.

Step 11

Fold and unfold both left edges to the centerline. Each crease should run from the corner to the horizontal centerline.

Step 12

Fold both left edges inward at the same time, then squash the flap that’s facing you upward. Its right edge should align with the vertical centerline.

Step 13

Fold down the top edge of the flap, then swivel fold as shown.

Step 14

Fold the bottom corner up to meet the top corner.

Step 15

Flip the top left flap over to the right.

Step 16

Repeat Steps 9 to 15 on the left side.

Step 17

Tuck the bottom flap into the pocket, locking the flaps behind the hat together.

The Bewitching Hat Bookmark is Done

Folding tip: Here, I show you how to hide the flap sitting on each side of the witch hat.

Whether you’re casting spells in fiction or just curling up with a good book, this origami witch hat bookmark is a delightful companion. It’s quick to fold, fun to decorate, and guaranteed to spark a smile when you open your book.

If you’d like more tutorials like this one, join us on YouTube and subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive diagrams, folding tips, and fresh ideas delivered straight to your inbox.

Download the Complete Origami Witch Hat Bookmark Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.

Watch the Origami Witch Hat Bookmark Video Tutorial

Enjoyed this tutorial?

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for new inspiring origami videos every week!

The post How to Fold an Origami Witch Hat Bookmark appeared first on Origami.me.

How to Fold an Origami Heart Bookmark

Florent Fabre — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 08:59:17 +0000

This origami bookmark is a lovely and thoughtful model designed by the late Francis Ow, an origami artist known for his many heart-themed creations.

It’s simple, elegant, and makes a perfect little gift or a cute addition to your current read. With just a bit of folding experience, you can make one in a few minutes, and the best part is you can fold two bookmarks from a single 15 x 15 cm square.

Whether you use patterned paper, soft colors, or something more playful, the heart shape always shines through.

Origami Heart Bookmark Step-by-Step Instructions

Difficulty: Easy – Beginner level 3
Folding time: 5 to 10 minutes

Recommended Paper

15×15 cm (6×6 in) Kami

Step 1

Cut a square sheet of paper in half.

Step 2

Start with the white side facing up. Fold the paper in half horizontally and make a pinch mark at the right edge. Then unfold.

Step 3

Fold the top and bottom edges to meet the pinch mark. Make two new pinch marks at the left and right edges, then unfold.

Step 4

Fold the top edge to the nearest pinch mark. Then unfold.

Step 5

Fold the top edge to the crease you just made. Add two pinch marks at the left and right edges, then unfold.

Step 6

Fold the paper in half vertically. Make a pinch mark at both the top and bottom edges.

Note: The top edge pinch mark should extend slightly past the crease from Step 4.

Step 7

Fold the top edge down to the second pinch mark (counting from the top).

Step 8

Turn the paper over.

Step 9

Fold the top left and right edges in to meet the center pinch mark from Step 6.

Step 10

Focusing on the top left flap, fold its bottom left edge to the center pinch mark. Repeat on the right flap.

Step 11

Mountain fold the top section along the top edges of the flaps you just made in Step 10.

Step 12

Open the top layer and squash fold it upward as shown.

Step 13

Move the flap from back to front, reversing the fold you made in Step 10.

Step 14

Fold the tip of the triangle downward.

Step 15

Repeat Steps 12 to 14 on the right side.

Step 16

Fold the left and right edges in to meet the center pinch mark at the bottom edge.

Step 17

Turn the model over.

Step 18

Fold the bottom left edge to the center pinch mark. Crease well, then unfold.

Step 19

Inside reverse fold along the crease you just made in Step 18.

Step 20

Repeat Steps 18 and 19 on the right side.

The Completed Origami Heart Bookmark

Your origami heart bookmark is ready!

Your bookmark is ready to slide onto the corner of your favorite page.

It’s a simple model, but one that feels meaningful, both for its design and for the artist behind it. If you enjoyed this fold, feel free to share it with someone or make a few extras as gifts.

You can also tag us on social media or leave a comment to show us how yours turned out. And if you want more relaxing folds like this one, feel free to join our newsletter or check out our latest YouTube tutorials.

Download the Complete Origami Heart Bookmark Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.

The post How to Fold an Origami Heart Bookmark appeared first on Origami.me.

How to Fold an Origami Basket

Florent Fabre — Sun, 30 Mar 2025 07:36:18 +0000

Origami baskets have been around for centuries and were mentioned for the first time in a 1663 diary entry by Samuel Pepys.

Often used to hold small gifts or treats, this traditional origami basket is easy to fold and works beautifully as a handmade Easter basket.

Whether you fill it with mini chocolate eggs, flowers or just enjoy the folding process, it’s a lovely seasonal project perfect for adding a personal touch to your spring decorations.

Traditional Origami Basket Step-by-Step Instructions

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

Recommended Paper

15×15 cm (6×6 in) Kami or Chiyogami (patterned paper) x 2

Printable Instructions

Watch Video

Paper Preparation

Step 1

Fold the paper in half horizontally, then unfold.

Step 2

Fold the right edge to the centerline, then unfold.

Step 3

Cut along the crease made in Step 2 to create a strip for the handle.

How to Fold the Handle

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper strip facing up. Fold it in half horizontally, then unfold.

Step 2

Fold the left and right edges inward to the centerline.

Step 3

Fold the strip in half horizontally along the crease made in Step 1.

How to Fold the Basket Case

Step 1

Start with the colored side facing up, positioned like a diamond. Fold and unfold both diagonals.

Step 2

Turn the paper over.

Step 3

Fold the paper in half from side to side in both directions, then unfold.

Step 4

Collapse the paper along the creases from Steps 1 and 3 to form a Square Base.

Step 5

Fold the top layer’s top corner down to meet the bottom corner.

Step 6

Fold the top layer’s bottom corner up to the centerline.

Step 7

Lift the flap created in Step 6 and tuck the handle behind it. The handle width should align with the crease made in Step 6.

Step 8

Hold the handle in place, then fold the top two layers of the colored flap (from Step 6) in half to secure the handle.

Step 9

Repeat Steps 5 to 8 on the other side.

Folding Tip: If your handle does not extend over the flaps pointing up, place it between them so it reaches the folding area.

Step 10

Fold and unfold the top layer’s left and right corners to the centerline.

Step 11

Reverse the creases made in Step 10 inward.

Step 12

Repeat Steps 10 and 11 on the other side.

Step 13

Place your index fingers behind the handles on both sides and gently open the basket, flattening the bottom.

Step 14

Fold the two flaps sticking out of the basket inward along the dotted lines.

Folding Tip: To make this step easier, first fold them outward, then reverse the fold inward.

Your origami basket is complete!

Well done. You’ve folded a classic origami basket with a design that’s stood the test of time.

Try making a few in different colors or paper styles for your Easter table or to give as thoughtful, handmade gifts.

And if you’d like to share your paper basket, we’d love to see it. Drop a photo in the comments or tag us on social media.

Download the Complete Origami Basket Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of printable PDFs, and member-only content.