How To Make An Easy Origami Butterfly: 10 Step by Step

How To Make An Easy Origami Butterfly: 10 Step by Step Instructions

Origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, offers a simple yet deeply satisfying way to create beautiful designs with nothing more than a sheet of paper. Among the most popular beginner-friendly origami projects is the origami butterfly. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make an easy origami butterfly step by step in 10 simple stages. Whether you’re a beginner or looking for a fun craft activity, this tutorial is perfect for all skill levels.

Let’s get started!

Why Make an Origami Butterfly?

Origami butterflies are more than just paper crafts. They symbolize transformation, creativity, and peace. They’re ideal for:

Decorating gifts or cards
DIY room décor
Party or wedding decorations
Fun activities for kids

Best of all, you only need a square piece of paper and a few minutes!

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the steps, gather your materials:

One square sheet of paper (preferably colored or patterned)
Flat surface to fold on
Optional: A ruler or bone folder for crisp folds

Tip: Start with a 6 x 6 inch (15 x 15 cm) square paper. It’s easier to fold and handle for beginners.

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How To Make An Easy Origami Butterfly: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Start With the Colored Side Down

Place your square paper flat on a surface with the colored or patterned side facing down. This ensures the color shows on the outside of your butterfly.

Step 2: Fold Diagonally (Both Ways)

Fold the paper diagonally from corner to corner to form a triangle. Crease well and unfold. Then, fold it diagonally the other way and crease again. Unfold.

You should now see an “X” crease pattern on your paper.

Step 3: Fold Horizontally and Vertically

Next, fold the paper in half horizontally (top edge to bottom edge). Crease and unfold. Repeat the same fold vertically (left to right). Unfold again.

Now, you’ll see a grid-like pattern with a central point where all folds meet.

Step 4: Collapse into a Triangle Base

Hold the paper at the side edges and gently push inward. The paper will start to collapse into a flat triangle shape (also known as the “preliminary base” or “waterbomb base”). Flatten and align the corners.

Step 5: Fold the Triangle Corners Up

With the triangle’s point facing down, fold the two top corners of the triangle down to the bottom point. This will create a diamond shape.

Step 6: Fold the Top Layer’s Bottom Point Up

Now, fold the bottom point of the top layer up past the top edge. This creates the butterfly’s body and helps lock the wings into place.

Tip: The more you fold up, the thicker the body will look.

Step 7: Flip the Paper Over

Carefully turn the paper over to the other side so you can work on the back. The butterfly’s wings will be more visible on this side.

Step 8: Fold in Half Vertically

Fold the entire shape in half vertically (left wing to right wing), making sure the previous folds stay aligned. Press the middle to crease it firmly.

This will give your butterfly a raised body and add volume to the wings.

Step 9: Shape the Wings

Unfold slightly and gently pull the wings outward. Adjust them to achieve your desired wing shape. You can round the edges or leave them sharp for a more angular look.

Step 10: Final Adjustments

Your origami butterfly is complete! Flatten any uneven edges, fluff the wings, and admire your handiwork.

Want to take it further? Add details with a pen or decorate with glitter or stickers for a personalized touch.

Origami Butterfly Tips for Beginners

Use thinner paper: Thinner origami paper is easier to fold and prevents bulky creases.
Practice makes perfect: Your first butterfly might not be perfect, but worry not! Repeating the steps will make the process smoother.
Decorate your butterflies: Use patterned paper or draw your designs to give your butterflies unique flair.

Fun Ways to Use Origami Butterflies

Once you’ve mastered how to make an easy origami butterfly, the creative possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas:

Wall Art: Create a butterfly wall collage in your bedroom or living room.
Gift Embellishments: Tape one on top of a wrapped present for a creative touch.
Party Décor: Hang butterflies on strings for whimsical party garlands.
Bookmarks: Attach a paperclip to the bottom and use it as a cute bookmark.
Handmade Cards: Glue a butterfly to a greeting card for a 3D effect.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to make an easy origami butterfly in just 10 steps is a fun, relaxing, and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a parent crafting with your child, a student taking a creative break, or simply someone looking for a stress-free DIY, origami butterflies offer a joyful outlet.

All you need is a square piece of paper, a bit of patience, and creativity. So grab your paper and start folding, your first butterfly is just 10 steps away!