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

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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

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

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

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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

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

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

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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

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

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

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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

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

According to the original 1989 diagram notes, it’s a traditional Chinese model collected by Philip Shen, though its exact origins remain a mystery.

Folding it doesn’t require advanced skills, but shaping the final form takes a bit of care and patience.

It’s a beautiful piece for displaying dry or paper flowers, and a great next step for beginner folders looking for a challenge.

Origami Vase Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 20 minutes
• Model designer: Traditional

Step 1

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

Step 2

Fold the bottom left corner to the circled point. Start the fold from the bottom right corner. Only crease at the vertical centerline to make a pinch mark. Then, unfold.

Step 3

Fold the bottom left corner to the pinch mark from Step 2. Crease only at the bottom edge to mark another pinch, then unfold.

Step 4

Fold the right edge to the pinch mark you made in Step 3. Then, unfold.

Step 5

Fold the left edge to the crease you made in Step 3.

Step 6

Fold both the left and right edges to the nearest crease line.

Step 7

Fold the bottom right corner to meet the top left corner. Pinch where it crosses the second crease line from the left edge. Then, unfold.

Step 8

Using the pinch mark from Step 7, divide the paper into 6 equal horizontal sections by folding and unfolding, just like you did in Steps 4 to 6.

Step 9

Fold and unfold each raw edge to the nearest crease line. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 10

Fold and unfold each raw edge again, as shown in the diagram.

Step 11

On both sides of the vertical centerline, pleat fold using the two nearest existing creases.

Step 12

Repeat Step 11 at the horizontal centerline level.

Step 13

Turn the model over.

Step 14

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

Step 15

Petal fold downward using the creases from Step 14.

Step 16

Repeat Steps 14 and 15 on the remaining sides. Then, turn the model over.

Step 17

Fold and unfold the top left and right edges to the nearest horizontal crease line. Repeat on the other sides.

Step 18

Fold the left and right edges to the vertical centerline.

Step 19

Fold the top and bottom edges to the horizontal centerline. Tuck these flaps into the pockets.

Step 20

Fold each corner around the center point inward, along existing creases.

Step 21

Turn the model over.

Step 22

Place two fingers under the top flaps and gently open the model.

Then, gently push the angles inward to shape the vase.

The Completed Origami Vase!

Folding tip: Use thicker and larger paper if you want a sturdier, usable vase. Just don’t put water inside

I hope you enjoyed folding this beautiful vase and that it now holds something special on your desk or shelf.

If you’re into functional origami or want to explore more traditional models, check out our origami YouTube channel and join our newsletter for new tutorials every week.

Let me know how your vase turned out, and what you decided to put inside it in the comments below!

Download the Complete Origami Vase 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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

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

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

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?

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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

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

With its hollow center, it can hold small candies, mini eggs, or even a full-sized egg when folded from standard origami paper.

Whether you’re making a festive decoration or just looking for a light, creative project, this little origami chick is a cheerful one to fold.

Origami Basket Chick Step-by-Step Instructions

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

Step 1

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

Step 2

Fold the top edges inward to meet the centerline.

Step 3

Fold the top corner down to the line created in Step 2, where the colored and white sides of the paper meet. Then, unfold.

Step 4

Fold the top corner at the back of the model along the crease made in Step 3.

Step 5

Fold the top left and right corners inward along the dotted lines.

Step 6

Turn the paper over.

Step 7

Pinch the bottom corner of the top flap and flatten it along the dotted line while folding the right side to the back.

Step 8

Fold the bottom right corner up to the reference point. Crease well, then unfold.

Step 9

Inside reverse fold along the creases made in Step 9.

Step 10

Fold the bottom corner of the top flap up to the reference point located under the beak. Repeat this step on the back side.

Step 11

Fold the wing along the dotted line, then repeat on the back. The crease should run from the bottom angle to the top edge of the wing.

Step 12

Mountain fold the bottom corner inward along the dotted line, then repeat on the back.

Step 13

Gently open the flaps at the top of the model in opposite directions. Pull slightly to flatten the inner flap and create a hollow space inside.

The Completed Origami Chick

And there you have it. Your basket chick is complete!

Fill it with treats, display it on the table, or tuck it into a spring gift.

It’s a simple model with lots of charm and is perfect for adding a handmade touch to Easter or any time of year.

If you fold some, we’d love to see them. Share a photo in the comments or tag us on social media.

Download the Complete Origami Chick 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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

The post How to Fold an Origami Basket Chick appeared first on Origami.me.

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

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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

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

It is used to store small gifts or treats during festivals and ceremonies, like kagami mochi for New Year’s, beans for Setsubun, and dango for Tsukimi.

With its unique design and interesting raised base, this project provides an easy step-by-step guide to folding your own ceremonial box, perfect for decoration or special occasions.

Origami Sanbo Box Step-by-Step Instructions

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

Step 1

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

Step 2

Fold each corner to the center.

Step 3

Fold both diagonals, then unfold.

Step 4

Turn the model over and fold both sides in half. Then unfold.

Step 5

Using the existing folds, collapse along the dotted lines.

Step 6

Bring the top flap down and fold it in half. Then unfold.

Step 7

Open the top layer pockets and bring the top corner down to meet with the lower corner, creating a squash fold.

Step 8

Repeat Steps 6 to 7 on the other side of the model.

Step 9

Bring the top right flap to the left, then repeat on the other side.

Step 10

Fold both top layers in half along the dotted lines.

Step 11

Repeat Step 10 on the other side of the model.

Step 12

Bring the top flap down and fold along the dotted line. Repeat on the other side.

Step 13

Gently pull the flaps created in Step 12 outward to open the box.

Folding tip: Use your fingers to press the paper down and shape the inside of the box.

The Completed Sanbo Box

Great job on folding your very own origami sanbo box! It’s a timeless piece rich with tradition.

Keep experimenting with different papers and enjoy the beauty this box adds to any place.

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

Download the Complete Origami Sanbo 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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

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

This easy-to-follow tutorial will show you how to fold an origami envelope. This model is ideal for beginners and fun for crafters of all ages.

Origami envelopes have a rich heritage in Japan. Japanese people use them during celebrations and as an elegant and discreet way to gift money.

Grab any origami paper you have—colorful, patterned, or even a simple white sheet—and let’s fold together this wonderful envelope.

Origami Envelope Step-by-Step Instructions

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

Step 1

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

Folding tip: Don’t rush the first creases when you’re making the envelope. They’ll set the tone for how the whole model turns out.

Step 2

Fold in half diagonally the other way, then unfold.

Step 3

Fold two opposite corners inward so their tips meet at the center point.

Step 4

Fold the top corner down to the center point, but only press lightly at the intersection with the diagonal to create a small pinch crease. Then unfold.

Step 5

Rotate the paper 45 degrees counterclockwise.

Step 6

Fold the bottom corner up to meet the pinch mark from Step 4, then unfold.

Step 7

Fold the bottom corner up to meet the crease made in Step 6.

Step 8

Fold the bottom left section upward, aligning its left edge with the crease made in Step 6.

Step 9

Repeat on the right side.

Step 10

Unfold the folds made in Steps 7 to 9.

Step 11

Fold along the dotted lines, using the existing creases as guides.

Folding tip: This is the most tricky fold of this model. However, you can make it very easily before unfolding the model during the previous step. Just turn the model and create a light precrease with a mountain fold at the level of the valley fold shown in step 11. You can then unfold the model as shown in step 10 and create your valley fold by reversing the mountain fold you just created. Crease well, and here are your perfect folds for step 11. Let me know in the comments if you’d like a video about this tip!

Step 12

Fold the bottom corner up, using the creases made in Step 11 as guides.

Step 13

Collapse the paper along the existing creases. Refer to the diagram to identify valley and mountain folds.

Note: The square flap of the collapsed model is positioned on top of the two side flaps.

Step 14

Open the top left flap while releasing the one trapped in the bottom left corner.

Note: The top flap should remain raised and should not rest on the bottom flap yet.

Step 15

Close the top left flap over the flap beneath it. The mountain fold follows an existing crease, while the valley fold creates a new crease.

Step 16

Repeat Steps 14 to 15 on the top right flap.

Step 17

Make a mountain fold along the dotted line at the midpoint of the square. Swing the square backward without creasing through it.

Step 18

Fold the entire bottom flap upwards along the existing crease.

Step 19

Gently open the left flap that is trapped under the bottom left flap. Don’t flatten it yet.

Step 20

Tuck the corner of the flap underneath the square.

Step 21

Repeat Steps 19 to 20 on the right side.

Step 22

Fold the top corner down to meet the bottom edge, then unfold.

Step 23

Fold the top corner down to meet the crease made in Step 22.

Step 24

Fold the top edge down along the crease made in Step 22.

Step 25

Tuck the edge of the top flap under the square.

The Completed Origami Envelope

And there you have it—your very own handmade paper envelope! This isn’t just any envelope; it’s a handcrafted envelope that feels both special and personal.

If you want to use patterned paper, I recommend using chiyogami (ready-to-use) or creating your own origami paper by sticking two layers of wrapping paper together.

I hope you enjoyed making your origami envelope as much as I loved sharing this tutorial with you.

Keep these handy for any occasion, or just make them for the simple joy of folding. Either way, you’re keeping a beautiful tradition alive and adding a touch of creativity to your everyday life.

Share your creations with us in the comments or on socials. Happy folding!

Download the Complete Origami 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.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

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