The art of creating paper cranes is a traditional Japanese craft that has been passed down from generation to generation. It is believed that if you create one thousand paper cranes, your wish will come true. Today, paper cranes are popular decorations, and they are also used to celebrate special occasions and to give as gifts. In this article, we will learn how to create paper cranes step-by-step.
Materials
The materials needed to create a paper crane are simple and can be easily found at home or at stores:
- Square origami paper
- A flat surface
You can use any kind of paper, but it would be best to use origami paper since it is specifically designed for this craft. You can find origami paper in any craft store or online. The size of the paper does not matter, but it should be square in shape.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Start by placing the paper in front of you on a flat surface with the colored side facing down. Fold the paper in half diagonally and then unfold it.
Step 2
Fold the paper in half diagonally the other way and then unfold it.
Step 3
Turn the paper over so that the colored side is facing up. Fold the paper in half vertically and then unfold it.
Step 4
Now fold the paper in half horizontally and then unfold it.
Step 5
Bring each corner of the paper to the center point where the vertical and horizontal creases intersect. The paper will form a smaller square.
Step 6
Fold the top layer of the right corner of the paper up along the vertical crease and then do the same with the left corner of the paper.
Step 7
Now fold the top layer of the right corner of the paper down along the horizontal crease and do the same with the left corner of the paper.
Step 8
Hold the paper at the bottom and pull the corners of the paper outwards until the paper forms a diamond shape.
Step 9
Fold the top layer of the right corner of the paper up along the vertical crease, and then do the same with the left corner of the paper.
Step 10
Flip the paper over to the other side, and then repeat step 9. You will now have a diamond shape with two flaps on top and bottom.
Step 11
Fold the right flap of the diamond shape up along the horizontal crease, and then do the same with the left flap of the paper.
Step 12
Bring the top layer of the right corner of the diamond shape down along the vertical crease, and then do the same with the left corner of the paper.
Step 13
You will now have a kite shape with a long pointed tail. Fold the tail upwards so that it is parallel to the kite shape.
Step 14
Bring the top layer of the right corner of the kite shape down along the vertical crease, and then do the same with the left corner of the paper.
Step 15
Turn the paper over to the other side and repeat step 14.
Step 16
Fold the top layer of the paper down along the horizontal crease. This will create the head of the crane.
Step 17
Fold the wings down so that they are aligned with body.
Step 18
Fold the paper along the vertical crease, and then do the same on the other side.
Step 19
Unfold the wings slightly upwards so that they extend outwards.
Step 20
The paper crane is now complete.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have created a paper crane, a beautiful and meaningful piece of art. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt is not successful. With time and patience, you will master this art form and create beautiful cranes that you can use to decorate your home or give as a gift to friends and family.
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