Let's make it with origami! Ideas for simple 3D creations
Origami tends to be associated with flat designs, but you can actually make lots of three-dimensional pieces too.
In this article, we’ll introduce ideas for 3D origami projects.
From simple shapes like hearts, stars, and dice to small containers and toys you can play with, we’ve gathered a variety of ideas.
If you want to try making 3D origami or are looking for something a bit more challenging than flat designs, feel free to use this as a reference.
All of these ideas involve relatively simple steps, so give them a try without hesitation!
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Let’s make it with origami! Ideas for simple 3D creations (51–60)
A cat-shaped box
If you want to add a creative touch to a small container, how about making it cat-shaped? First, fold all the corners of the origami paper toward the center, then flip the paper over.
Fold two opposite corners toward the center, then fold once more to make a rolled fold.
Fold the remaining two corners inward to form a box shape, and you’re done.
When folding, leave one outer flap unfolded to create cat ears, finishing it as a cat-shaped box.
Instead of making the box square, aim for a round shape to make it look even more cat-like.
3D! Star-shaped accessory case
You can flatten and store it when not in use! It’s a star-shaped trinket box.
Fold the origami in half, then in half again to make a square.
After creasing, open it back to the half-folded state, align both side edges to the center line to crease, then unfold.
Fold the two bottom corners up to the outer crease, then fold again so the new creases align with the center line.
In this state, trim off the unnecessary top portion, and the origami becomes a hexagon.
Fold the edges of the hexagon inward, crease the center of the origami into a hexagon, then keep adding creases as you collapse it into a smaller hexagon.
Finally, fold the center area outward to make the opening of the container, press the sides inward to form a star shape, and you’re done!
octagonal box
This is a practical octagonal trinket box with a simple shape.
Because the box is wide and its overall form is clearly visible, it nicely showcases the origami pattern—a key point.
After folding the paper with the overlaps in mind, unfold it and shape it along the creases.
Adjust it so the base forms a clean octagon, and press the creases firmly to complete the box.
If you don’t have double-sided patterned origami, you can glue two sheets together before making it; this also results in a sturdier box, which is recommended.
Cat trinket box
This is a small container inspired by a cat, with adorably prominent ears.
The process involves lightly folding the whole sheet into quarters, then using those creases as guides to keep folding.
Pay attention to techniques like folding so the bottom of the box forms properly and making turn-backs that also use the reverse side.
Toward the end, there are more steps where you insert your fingers into small gaps to fold things back, so careful folding to avoid creases is important.
Finally, spread everything open and adjust the shape to complete the box; it’s also a good idea to draw the cat’s face before you open it up.
Three-dimensional oni origami
Unlike flat origami, this three-dimensional oni (demon) origami offers a big wow factor when finished.
As you fold, the form naturally pops up, giving you the satisfying feeling that it “really turned into an oni!” The steps are simple, so even children can try it without difficulty.
With just a bit of creativity in the facial expression, each piece takes on its own character, making it fun to create several and display them together.
Simply decorating with them gives a strong Setsubun feel, so I thought this is an origami idea you’ll definitely want to try in February.
