How to Make a Paper Crane

Learn how to make a paper crane fast!

A bird in the hand
A bird in the hand

Steps   

  1. Get a small square piece of paper.
  2. Fold the square diagonally in half, so that it is shaped like an upside-down triangle.
  3. Fold it once horizontally. This fold should leave the design shaped like a smaller triangle; it should be right-side-up.
  4. Note that a pocket should form at the bottom of the figure after steps 1 and 2. Turn the paper over, and open up the pocket so that it forms a square next to a scalene triangle (this is a triangle shaped like the top portion of a 4). Together, they will look like a trapezoid cut vertically in the middle with a fold.
  5. Turn the paper over again, so that the fold shows.
  6. Fold the left corner in towards the middle, so that the edge of that side meets the crease in the center of the square; do the same fold with the other corner.
  7. Turn the paper over and repeat step 6.
  8. Open up the folds you have just made on one side of the paper and pull the top flap forward. Crease in the sides.
  9. Turn over the paper and repeat step 8.
  10. Look at the result so far. You now have a figure that has legs. With the legs facing forward, fold the right side to the center of the figure and do the same with the left side.
  11. Turn the figure over and repeat step 10.
  12. Fold each flap you have just made together, so that the figure looks like fox ears.
  13. Fold one of the legs up so that the bottom part is at the height of the "fox ears".
  14. Turn the paper over and repeat step 13.
  15. Take one of the legs you have just folded up and make a head for the crane. Leave the other leg alone. Pull the 2 "fox ears" out to form wings. You have now made a paper crane!


Tips   

  • To find a diagram for the process, follow the external link.
  • Use your less-attractive "leg" for the crane's head.
  • Be patient with yourself. Once you conquer Steps 8 & 9 above, where you open the paper out to form an elongated diamond shape with "legs" at one end - it's inside-out - you are home free!
  • Gather with friends to fold 1,000 cranes to wish a someone good health and peace.


Warnings   

  • Mastering folding cranes may lead to a desire to purchase origami books, which can in turn lead to an infestation of colorful, attractive origami models throughout your home. And a dwindling bank account.
  • Don't be too upset if you don't get it on the first try. It is a difficult strategy to master and takes time. Keep trying!