Teaching kids how to fold an origami bird is a fun and easy way to introduce them to this classic art form.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more.
Learning how to fold traditional origami can be challenging for kids. You have to follow the instructions precisely; some tutorials have many steps.
That’s why we love this origami bird! It’s easy to learn and only has 4 steps. This makes it a great beginner paper-folding craft for kids.
You can make these paper birds in any color – or start with white paper and then use crayons or markers to decorate them!
Origami paper folding tips
- Start with a perfect square of paper (unless the pattern calls for something different). Use a ruler to double-check that all sides are even.
- Use origami paper if you can. This paper is just the right weight and thickness, and it often comes cut to size.
- Young kids can learn to fold origami but may learn better by copying an adult. Sit beside your child, rather than across from them, so that they can see exactly what you’re doing.
- To make a crease, use the edge of a pencil or ruler, or your fingernail to make the crease nice and crisp.
- Traditionally origami doesn’t include glue. But you may want to add some in a few places to ensure your folds stay put, especially if the finished design is a toy.
Become a Happy Camper!
Sign up to receive our monthly email newsletter
and get a free printable 30 Day Reading Calendar!
How to fold an origami bird
Supplies
- 1 square piece of origami paper or craft paper
- scissors
- ruler
- pencil
Instructions
Prep the paper by measuring and cutting it into a square. We started with a 5-inch square piece of paper to make an approximately 3-inch tall bird.
1. Make a triangle
Fold the paper in half to make a triangle. With the point facing toward you, fold the top half down again.
2. Create the wings
Flip the paper over, then unfold the bottom corner halfway up, creating a square. Then fold the paper in half, creating the wing shape of the bird.
3. Fold back the wings
Fold back the wing, leaving a small gap for the body, then flip over the paper and repeat on the other side.
4. Crease the beak
To make the beak, start at the front (the end where the wings taper inward). Push the top corner in and down to create a beak. You now have a finished bird!
Printable instructions
Origami Bird
Materials
- 1 square piece of origami paper or craft paper
- scissors
- ruler
- pencil
Instructions
- Prep the paper by measuring and cutting it into a square. We started with a 5-inch square piece of paper to make an approximately 3-inch tall bird.
- Fold the paper in half to make a triangle. With the point facing toward you, fold it in half again.
- Flip the paper over, then unfold the bottom corner halfway up, creating a square. Then fold the paper in half, creating the wing shape of the bird.
- Fold back the wing, leaving a small gap for the body, then flip over the paper and repeat on the other side.
- To make the beak, start at the front (where the wings taper inward). Push the top corner in and down to create a beak. You now have a finished bird!
Plan your summer with the DIY Summer Camp Planner!
Our step-by-step guide will help you organize a day, a week, or a whole summer of fun activities for your kids.
