Step-by-step origami, folded in 3D
Clear folding guides for classic models, from a five-minute paper dart to the traditional Japanese crane. Pick a model and scroll: a 3D sheet of paper folds beside each instruction, with standard origami notation for every step.
- 01
Paper Dart
The classic dart from one sheet of A4: seven folds, a sharp nose and a keel, and it flies straight with a little trimming.
Traditional - 02
Butterfly
A quick butterfly folded from a waterbomb base, with a locked tip that holds the wings together.
Variation of Akira Yoshizawa’s butterfly - 03
Crane
The classic orizuru. Square base, petal folds and reverse folds: once you know these, most traditional models open up.
Traditional, Japan - 04
Heart
Four folds and a little shaping. A flat heart for cards, gift tags and notes.
Traditional - 05
Masu Box
A sturdy square box with no glue, named after the wooden cups once used to measure rice.
Traditional, Japan - 06
Jumping Frog
Folded from an index card. Press its back and it springs forward. Race a few to see whose jumps furthest.
Traditional
How the guides work
Fold along as you scroll
Each step has its own short instruction. As you read it, the 3D model makes exactly that fold, so you can see which way the paper moves before you crease it.
Learn the notation
Every step also has a diagram drawn in standard origami notation: dashed valley folds, dot-dash mountain folds and arrows. The same symbols appear in origami books.
Start easy, build up
The heart, dart and frog need only simple folds. The butterfly and masu box introduce collapses, and the crane brings in petal and reverse folds. New to it all? Read Origami basics first.