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How to Fold a Paper Crane
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How to Make an Origami Crane

The origami crane is steeped in tradition, and it's a paper craft that's surprisingly simple to fold. This beautiful bird adds a touch of peace and artistry to any space, making it a perfect project for beginners and experienced crafters alike.
Active Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Yield: 1 origami crane
Author: Debbie Chapman
Cost: $1

Materials

Instructions

Step 1: Find what you need

  • All you need to make an origami crane is 1 square piece of paper! You can use origami paper or cut printer paper to size.
    Origami Crane Supplies

Step 2: Create initial guideline creases

  • Set the paper with the good side down (facing the table).
    Origami Crane
  • Fold the paper in half by bringing the bottom edge up to the top.
    Origami Crane
  • Open the fold and then fold in half again, this time from left to right.
    Origami Crane
  • Open this fold as well, and then fold in half diagonally -- bringing the bottom left corner up to the top right.
    Origami Crane
  • Re-open the diagonal fold and then flip the paper over so the good side faces up.
    Origami Crane
  • Then fold diagonally the opposite way (with the good colour inside).
    Origami Crane

Step 3: Fold into a smaller square

  • Open the fold again and hold the paper like a diamond, with a point towards you. Take the left and right points and bring them inwards.
    Push the front and back together. Flatten and set down with the open point towards you.
    Origami Crane

Step 4: Create a narrow diamond shape

  • Fold the bottom right edge (2 layers of paper) in to the middle. Repeat on the left side.
    Origami Crane
  • Flip the paper over horizontally and repeat on the other side.
    Origami Crane
  • Unfold your 2 most recent folds. Fold the top layer of the bottom point up towards the top. As you do this, fold the right and left sides in towards the middle.
    Make sure all 4 points are neatly folded.
    Origami Crane
  • Flip your paper horizontally and repeat the same folds on this side, creating another long diamond.
    Origami Crane
  • Fold the top layer of the bottom right edge in to meet the center fold. Repeat on the left side.
    Origami Crane
  • Flip the paper horizontally and repeat.
    Origami Crane

Step 5: Create the head, neck, and tail

  • Slide your finger between the top and bottom layers on the right. Fold the right side up at a 45 degree angle, then flatten the fold to create the crane's tail.
    Origami Crane
  • Repeat the same fold on the other side, then fold the tip down to create the crane's head.
    This fold should be roughly parallel with the bottom of the crane.
    Origami Crane
  • Pick up the crane and fold the wings down on either side.
    Origami Crane
  • Your origami crane is complete!
    Origami Crane

Video

Notes

Looking for more fun paper folding crafts? Here's a few of our favourites:
Origami Fish
How to Make Paper Crane Earrings
Folded Paper Heart