The best way to start off on your origami adventure is with the origami crane. This well known origami model is easy to intermediate level. For first timers, a larger piece of paper is recommended to practice the folds easier. All you will need is a square piece of paper.
So lets get started!
Step 1
Lay your square piece of paper out flat and then fold in half diagonally.
Step 2
Unfold and fold the paper in half in the opposite direction.
Step 3
Unfold the paper and flip it over. You should now have two creases forming an X.
Step 4
Fold the paper in half horizontally and unfold to reveal new crease.
Step 5
Now fold the paper in half vertically and again unfold to reveal the new crease.
Step 6
Bring the top point down to the bottom, while also folding in the left and right corners down to the centre. You should end up with a diamond shape, with a vertical crease down the centre.
Step 7
Now, with the open end at the bottom fold the right lower edge to the crease in the centre. Do the same with the left side.
Step 8
Fold the top section down and then unfold the three previous folds.
Step 9
Pull one layer up from the bottom and push the left and right edges inwards. Then flip the model over to the other side.
Step 10
Now repeat step 7 on the other side. Starting with the lower right fold to the central crease. And then the same with the left side.
Step 11
Fold down the small triangle to meet the two folds you just made and then again unfold the last three folds you just made.
Step 12
Repeating the action of step 9, pull one layer up from the bottom from the creases you’ve just made and push the left and right sides inwards.
Step 13
Now fold the lower right edge to the central crease. Do the same with the left.
Step 14
Flip the model over and fold the entire right corner to meet the crease in the centre. Do the same with the left.
Step 15
Fold the lower right flap up, under, and out to the right. Then do the same with the left side. This part can be a little bit tricky so take your time
Step 16
Create the wings by folding down from the top to meet the crease you made earlier.
Step 17
Lastly form the head by flattening the flap on the right and reverse fold a little section at the top.
And that’s it, your very first origami crane! Just remember to take your time and practice those folds a few times if you need to. Tag us on social media to show us your creations.
