How to Make Minimalist Origami Paper Cranes

Materials You’ll Need:

• Origami paper (white or soft, muted colors)
• Scissors
• Invisible thread or thin fishing line
• Optional: Metallic pen for accents

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Start with a square: Begin with a square sheet of origami paper, color side down.
2. Create the base folds: Fold the paper in half vertically, unfold, then fold in half horizontally. Unfold again.
3. Make the diagonal folds: Fold the paper diagonally in both directions, then unfold.
4. Form the preliminary base: Lift the top edge to the center crease, folding all layers. Repeat underneath.
5. Create the crane’s body: Fold the model in half, bringing the pointed ends together.
6. Form the wings: Fold the top layers of both sides into the center to create the wings.
7. Shape the head and tail: Fold the head down and the tail up to complete your crane.
8. Add hanging thread: Carefully tie a piece of invisible thread or fishing line around the crane’s body.
9. Optional – Add accents: Use a metallic pen to add subtle accents or patterns to your crane.

Tips:

• Practice the folds a few times with scrap paper before using your final origami paper.
• Create cranes in different sizes for variety.
• For a cohesive look, use papers in a consistent color palette.

These origami paper cranes pair beautifully with our Minimalist Paper Snowflakes. For another paper-based project, try our Minimalist Paper Houses tutorial.

Enjoy your elegant, handmade origami crane ornaments!