How to Make an Origami Crane

Folding an origami crane is a calming and beautiful craft that carries rich history and symbolism. Whether you're looking to unwind, add handmade decor to your space, or teach a classic project to others, this is a great way to explore the art of paper folding.

I tried my first origami crane on a quiet afternoon and was surprised at how peaceful the process felt. With just a square of paper and a bit of focus, you can create something graceful and meaningful.


✂️ Supplies You’ll Need

  • One square sheet of origami paper (6x6 inches is a great size to start with) 

  • A flat surface to fold on

  • Patience and a gentle touch

Optional:

  • Bone folder or ruler for crisp folds

  • Tweezers to help with final details

📐 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start with the colored side of your paper facing up.
Fold it diagonally in half both ways and crease well. Then unfold. You’ll have an “X” shape crease.

2. Flip the paper over and fold it in half vertically and horizontally.
Unfold again. Your paper should now have folds in the shape of a star or asterisk.

3. Bring the corners together to collapse into a square base.
Take the top corner and bring it to the bottom corner, while pushing in the side corners. Flatten into a smaller square shape.

4. Fold the sides of the top layer to the center crease, like a kite.
Repeat on both sides and unfold. Then fold the top triangle down and unfold. This preps for the next step. See image for step 5.

5. Lift the top layer from the bottom and fold upward, while letting the sides fold in along the creases.
This is called a petal fold. Flip and repeat on the back side.

6. Fold the sides into the center again to form a long diamond.
This creates the wings of your crane.

7. Fold up the bottom flaps to form the neck and tail.
Crease sharply and then inside reverse fold to lock them into place. See image for step 9.

8. Make the head by folding down the tip of one flap.
Another inside reverse fold will help secure it. See image for step 9.

9. Fold down the wings and gently pull the wings apart to puff out the body.
You now have a completed origami crane!

Find printable instructions with pictures with this link.

📦 Helpful Resource

When I first learned to fold cranes, I used this Origami Masterclass Kit on Amazon (affiliate link). It comes with papers and instructions that are perfect for beginners.

🧠 Fun Facts About the Paper Crane

  • The paper crane is one of the most classic and well-known origami designs in the world.

  • In Japanese culture, cranes are believed to live for a thousand years and symbolize peace, hope, and healing.

  • Folding 1,000 cranes is called senbazuru, and it's said to grant a wish, often related to recovery or peace.

  • Origami cranes became an international symbol of peace after the story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl affected by the Hiroshima bombing who folded cranes while battling leukemia.

  • You can make cranes out of many materials like wrapping paper, newspapers, or even fabric stiffened with glue.

📝 Final Thoughts

Making an origami crane is a simple and satisfying craft that carries deep meaning. Whether you make one or a thousand, each fold is a small act of mindfulness. Try making one during a quiet moment and see how relaxing it can be. Once you get the hang of it, you might find yourself folding them again and again. If you enjoy simple, hands-on projects like this, browse my other craft posts here.

Have you made origami paper cranes before? If not, try folding five cranes this week and tell me how it went! Share in the comments.

Sensibly and simply yours,
Kat

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Location: Michigan, USA

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