Simple origami that can be folded from a single sheet
Origami is a type of recreation that people of all ages—from young children to seniors—can enjoy together, and it’s fun whether you’re in a group or on your own.
You may not remember the very first origami you folded as a child, but in this article we’ll introduce ideas that are easy to fold and can be made with just one sheet of paper.
No cutting or gluing needed—these are all simple designs that you can complete with a single sheet of origami paper.
They’re perfect for kids trying origami for the first time, and also great as a warm-up for anyone who hasn’t folded in a while!
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Simple origami that can be folded with one sheet (1–10)
Decoy boat
Let’s fold a trick boat that forms the same boat shape no matter which way you fold it.
Fold the origami paper in half, then align the left and right edges to that center crease to create three guideline creases.
Rotate the paper and make the same creases, then fold it into a triangle to add diagonal creases as well.
With the front side up, fold all four corners to the center, flip the paper over, and continue folding along the creases you’ve made to shape it into a boat.
Your origami boat is complete.
The key is to firmly set the basic creases before shaping it!
heart
Heart-shaped origami is both adorable and surprisingly practical, isn’t it? The folding method is simple, so even beginners can try it with ease.
You can add it to a gift or use it as decoration—there are countless ways to enjoy it depending on your ideas.
All you need is a single sheet of origami paper—no scissors or glue required.
How about folding them together with family or friends and spending a lovely time?
windmill
It’s nice that you can make an origami pinwheel with just a single sheet of colorful paper.
The process of transforming a square sheet into imaginative shapes sparks children’s curiosity.
Folding together as a parent and child could be a wonderful way to communicate.
It’s perfect for a little break or some cozy family time.
Why not savor the joy of enjoying art with familiar materials while feeling the charm of handmade crafts?
Simple One-Sheet Origami (11–20)
Hoppy Frog
This is a cute origami frog that jumps when you press its back.
Fold the paper in half vertically so the edge is on the left, then fold the top-left corner to meet the right edge.
Unfold, then do the same with the top-right corner and unfold.
Fold down along the center line created by the creases, then open and flip the paper over.
Collapse along the creases into a triangle, and fold the corners of the triangle diagonally upward to make the frog’s hands.
Next, fold the lower square section upward to form the body and legs, and you’re done! It could be fun to have everyone compete to see whose frog can jump the farthest.
Mount Fuji
Let’s make a three-dimensional, snow-capped Mount Fuji using a single sheet of origami paper! First, crease along the diagonals.
Then fold each side of the square toward the center, and slightly open out each corner to the outside.
With that shape, add another set of diagonal creases, continue folding so it becomes three-dimensional, and gently push in the mountain’s peak to finish.
It’s perfect for activities with young children or seniors, and it would be a hit to fold together at cultural exchange events with people from overseas.
Give it a try!
Snap camera
Here’s how to make a snap camera, a nostalgic toy for adults.
It’s a simple fold adapted from the traditional origami “yakko-san,” so it’s easy to make! First, fold the origami paper in half, then fold it in half again to make a small square.
Open it up and fold all four corners to the center.
Turn it over and fold the four corners to the center again in the same way.
Turn it over once more and repeat the same step.
Turn it over again and fold the left and right corners outward to open them.
Fold the two bottom-back corners outward as well.
For the final step, pull the top and bottom corners as you fold, letting them overlap slightly, and you’re done.
When you press the center on the back, it pops open with a snap—so fun! You can play with it over and over again!
Note
Let’s make a mini notebook like a tiny book using a single sheet of origami paper.
First, fold it in half to make a rectangle, then fold it again.
Open it back to the half-fold, rotate it vertically, and fold it in half once more.
Fold the open edge into a smaller section, then fold that in half again.
Open it up, make a slit, and fold it into the shape of a book—your cute little notebook is complete! Since you’ll be using scissors while the paper is folded into a small shape, be careful where you place your hands when making the cut.