If you are interested in making origami, you should definitely learn how to make paper cranes. Not only are paper cranes beautiful decorations, they also hold a deep cultural significance in Japanese culture. According to legend, if you make 1,000 paper cranes, your wish will come true. Making paper cranes is also a great way to develop your patience and attention to detail. If you are just starting out, don’t worry, making paper cranes is easy once you get the hang of it. In this article, we will teach you how to make paper cranes easily.
Equipment You'll Need
Before you start making paper cranes, you’ll need to gather a few materials. Firstly, you will need a square piece of paper. You can use origami paper, which is specially designed for the craft, or you can make your own square piece of paper by cutting a rectangular piece of paper. A ruler, pencil, and scissors are also recommended to measure and cut the paper accurately. Additionally, it is recommended to use glue or double-sided tape to secure your paper crane.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here are the step-by-step instructions to make a paper crane:
- Start with your square piece of paper with the color side down
- Fold the paper in half diagonally to form a triangle. Make sure the corners are perfectly aligned and crease the paper well.
- Open the paper and fold it in half diagonally the other way. Again, make sure your corners are aligned and crease the paper well.
- Flip the paper over so that the color side is face up.
- Fold the paper in half horizontally. Make sure the corners are perfectly aligned and crease the paper well.
- Fold the paper in half vertically. Make sure the corners are perfectly aligned and crease the paper well.
- Hold the top layer of paper and fold it diagonally to the center crease on both sides. Crease the paper well.
- Hold one side of the paper and open the part of the paper that you just folded. Flatten the paper entirely for the new crease to be made in the middle of the paper.
- Bring the outer edges of the paper to the former top of the paper and crease it well.
- Flip over the paper. Fold the paper in half where the two diagonal creases meet. Once again, make sure the corners are perfectly aligned and the paper is creased well.
- Take one corner from the top layer, and fold it downwards so that the point meets the bottom edge of the paper. Crease the fold.
- Repeat the previous step with the other corner of the top layer.
- Flip the paper over and repeat steps 11 and 12 on the other side of the paper.
- Take the top layer of paper from one side and fold it upwards along the horizontal crease. Repeat this on the other side of the paper.
- Unfold the wings slightly and shape the paper into a crane. Add a small dot of glue or a piece of double-sided tape to secure the wings in place.
Conclusion
Making a paper crane is a great way to explore the art of origami. Once you've mastered the art of making paper cranes, you can try making other origami shapes like stars, flowers, and animals. Remember to take your time and enjoy the process of making origami. It’s a relaxing and satisfying hobby that can help you develop patience and focus. Happy folding!"
