Have you ever wanted to create a unique and personalized envelope for a special occasion or to add a touch of creativity to your correspondence? Look no further than origami envelopes. Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding, offers a simple yet elegant way to make your own envelopes. In this step-by-step guide, we will provide detailed instructions on how to create an easy origami envelope that is both functional and visually appealing. Whether you’re a seasoned origami enthusiast or a complete beginner, this guide will help you effortlessly master the art of making your own origami envelopes.
Origami envelopes are not only a fun and creative activity but also a practical and eco-friendly alternative to store-bought envelopes. Made from a single sheet of paper, these envelopes can be customized to fit any size or shape of paper, making them perfect for a variety of purposes. From sending letters and cards to storing small items or creating unique gift wrap, the possibilities are endless.
Before we begin the step-by-step guide, let’s gather the necessary materials: a square piece of paper (any size or color), a bone folder or a ruler for creasing, and optional decorative elements such as stickers, stamps, or ribbons. With these materials in hand, you’re ready to embark on the journey of creating your own origami envelope.
easy origami envelope step by step
Simple folding, creative results.
- Choose square paper.
- Fold in half twice.
- Unfold and fold diagonally.
- Fold top corners inward.
- Unfold top flap.
- Fold bottom flap up.
- Tuck sides into pocket.
- Flip and fold again.
- Add decorations (optional).
- Seal and send!
Origami envelopes add a personal touch to your correspondence and make a great DIY project for any occasion.
Choose square paper.
The foundation of your origami envelope is a square piece of paper. This ensures that the envelope will have a symmetrical and balanced shape. You can use any size or color of paper you like, depending on the desired outcome.
- Standard square paper:
This is the most common type of square paper used for origami, and it is readily available in various sizes. Standard square paper is perfect for making envelopes of different sizes, from small gift card envelopes to large letter envelopes.
- Origami paper:
Origami paper is specially designed for folding and is often thinner and more pliable than standard paper. It comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, making it a great choice for creating decorative and unique envelopes.
- Scrap paper:
If you’re looking for a more sustainable option, you can use scrap paper or old magazines to make your origami envelopes. Simply cut the paper into a square shape before you begin folding.
- Cardstock:
For a sturdier envelope, you can use cardstock. Cardstock is thicker and more durable than regular paper, making it a good choice for envelopes that need to hold heavier items or withstand frequent handling.
Once you have chosen your square piece of paper, you’re ready to begin folding your origami envelope. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful and functional envelopes in no time.
Fold in half twice.
To begin folding your origami envelope, you’ll need to create a series of creases that will serve as the foundation for the envelope’s shape.
- First fold:
Place the square piece of paper in front of you, with the colored side facing up (if using origami paper). Fold the paper in half vertically, bringing the right edge to meet the left edge. Crease the fold sharply with your bone folder or ruler.
- Unfold:
Unfold the paper back to its original square shape.
- Second fold:
Fold the paper in half horizontally, bringing the top edge to meet the bottom edge. Crease the fold sharply.
- Unfold again:
Unfold the paper back to its original square shape.
You should now have two perpendicular creases dividing the square into four equal quadrants. These creases will guide the subsequent folds to create the envelope’s shape.
Unfold and fold diagonally.
With the two perpendicular creases in place, you’re ready to create the diagonal folds that will shape the envelope’s flaps.
Unfold the paper completely:
Unfold the paper back to its original square shape.
Fold diagonally from top left to bottom right:
Bring the top left corner of the paper down to meet the bottom right corner. Crease the fold sharply.
Unfold:
Unfold the paper back to its original square shape.
Fold diagonally from top right to bottom left:
Bring the top right corner of the paper down to meet the bottom left corner. Crease the fold sharply.
Unfold again:
Unfold the paper back to its original square shape.
You should now have four diagonal creases dividing the square into eight equal triangles. These creases will guide the subsequent folds to create the envelope’s flaps and pockets.
Fold top corners inward.
The next step is to fold the top corners of the paper inward to create the envelope’s flaps.
Fold the top left corner inward:
Bring the top left corner of the paper down to meet the vertical crease in the center. Crease the fold sharply.
Fold the top right corner inward:
Bring the top right corner of the paper down to meet the vertical crease in the center. Crease the fold sharply.
Unfold the top flap:
Unfold the top flap of the paper back to its original position.
Repeat steps 1-3 on the other side:
Repeat steps 1-3 on the other side of the paper, folding the top left and right corners inward and then unfolding the top flap.
You should now have a square piece of paper with two diagonal creases and two horizontal creases. The top flap of the paper should be unfolded, revealing the diagonal creases underneath.
Unfold top flap.
Once you have folded the top corners inward, you need to unfold the top flap to reveal the diagonal creases underneath.
- Locate the top flap:
The top flap is the unfolded section of paper at the top of the square.
- Gently unfold the flap:
Use your fingers to carefully unfold the top flap, bringing it back to its original position.
- Smooth out the creases:
Once the flap is unfolded, gently smooth out any creases or wrinkles with your fingers or a bone folder.
- Prepare for the next step:
With the top flap unfolded, you can now proceed to the next step of folding the bottom flap up.
Unfolding the top flap reveals the diagonal creases that you created earlier. These creases will serve as guides for the subsequent folds that will shape the envelope’s pockets and flaps.
Fold bottom flap up.
After unfolding the top flap, you’re ready to fold the bottom flap up to create the envelope’s pocket.
- Locate the bottom flap:
The bottom flap is the unfolded section of paper at the bottom of the square.
- Fold the bottom flap upward:
Bring the bottom flap up towards the top of the square, aligning the bottom edge of the flap with the horizontal crease in the center.
- Crease the fold sharply:
Use your bone folder or ruler to crease the fold sharply, ensuring that the flap is securely folded up.
- Smooth out the flap:
Gently smooth out any wrinkles or creases on the folded flap with your fingers or a bone folder.
Folding the bottom flap up creates a pocket that will hold the contents of your envelope. The horizontal crease in the center of the square serves as a guide for folding the flap evenly and securely.
Tuck sides into pocket.
With the bottom flap folded up, you need to tuck the sides of the paper into the pocket to create the envelope’s enclosure.
- Locate the side flaps:
On each side of the folded bottom flap, you will see two triangular flaps.
- Fold the left side flap inward:
Bring the left side flap inward, tucking it into the pocket created by the folded bottom flap.
- Crease the fold:
Use your bone folder or ruler to crease the fold sharply, ensuring that the flap is securely tucked in.
- Repeat on the right side:
Repeat the same steps on the right side, tucking the right side flap inward and creasing the fold.
Tucking the side flaps into the pocket securely encloses the contents of the envelope and gives it a finished look. The triangular flaps fit snugly into the pocket, preventing the envelope from opening accidentally.
Flip and fold again.
After tucking the sides into the pocket, you need to flip the envelope over and make one final fold to complete the enclosure.
- Flip the envelope over:
Turn the envelope upside down, so that the folded bottom flap is now facing upward.
- Fold the top flap down:
Bring the top flap of the envelope down, aligning its bottom edge with the horizontal crease in the center.
- Crease the fold sharply:
Use your bone folder or ruler to crease the fold sharply, ensuring that the flap is securely folded down.
- Tuck in the sides (optional):
If desired, you can tuck the sides of the top flap into the pocket for a cleaner look.
This final fold creates a secure closure for the envelope and gives it its final shape. The tucked-in sides add a touch of elegance and ensure that the envelope stays closed.
Add decorations (optional).
Once you have completed the basic origami envelope, you can add decorations to personalize it and make it more unique.
Use colorful paper:
Choose a colorful or patterned piece of paper to create a visually appealing envelope. You can also use origami paper that comes in a variety of colors and designs.
Add stickers or stamps:
Stickers and stamps are a great way to add a personal touch to your envelopes. You can use stickers with different themes, such as animals, flowers, or holidays. Stamps can also add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Draw or paint designs:
If you’re feeling creative, you can draw or paint designs on your envelopes. Use markers, colored pencils, or watercolors to create unique and personalized designs.
Add ribbons or twine:
Ribbons or twine can add a touch of rustic charm to your envelopes. Wrap a ribbon or twine around the envelope and tie it in a bow. You can also use ribbons or twine to create decorative closures for your envelopes.
Decorating your origami envelopes is a fun and creative way to express your personal style and make your envelopes stand out from the ordinary.
Seal and send!
Once you have completed decorating your origami envelope (if desired), it’s time to seal it and send it on its way.
- Moisten the top flap:
Use a damp sponge or your finger to moisten the top flap of the envelope.
- Press the flap down:
Press the top flap down firmly to seal the envelope. Make sure that the flap is securely closed.
- Add a stamp (if mailing):
If you are mailing the envelope, affix a stamp to the front of the envelope in the designated area.
- Write the recipient’s address:
Clearly write the recipient’s address in the center of the envelope.
- Write your return address (optional):
If desired, you can write your return address in the upper left corner of the envelope.
Your origami envelope is now ready to be sent! You can drop it in a mailbox or take it to the post office. Your recipient will be delighted to receive a unique and personalized envelope made with care.
FAQ
Have questions about the art of origami? Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you get started:
Question 1: What is origami?
Answer: Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding. It is a fun and challenging activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.
Question 2: What kind of paper is best for origami?
Answer: Origami paper is specially designed for folding and is often thinner and more pliable than regular paper. However, you can also use regular printer paper or any other type of paper that is easy to fold.
Question 3: What are some easy origami projects for beginners?
Answer: Some easy origami projects for beginners include the origami envelope, the origami crane, and the origami boat. These projects are a great way to learn the basic techniques of origami and build your confidence.
Question 4: Where can I find origami instructions?
Answer: There are many resources available online and in libraries where you can find origami instructions. You can also find origami books and magazines that provide step-by-step instructions for a variety of origami projects.
Question 5: What are the benefits of origami?
Answer: Origami has many benefits, including improving hand-eye coordination, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving skills. It can also be a relaxing and meditative activity.
Question 6: Can I sell origami creations?
Answer: Yes, you can sell origami creations, but it is important to ensure that you have the rights to sell the design. If you are selling someone else’s design, you will need to obtain their permission or purchase a license.
Origami is a beautiful and rewarding art form that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With a little practice, you can create amazing origami creations that will impress your friends and family.
Now that you have learned more about origami, here are some tips to help you improve your skills and create beautiful origami pieces:
Tips
Here are some practical tips to help you improve your origami skills and create beautiful origami pieces:
Tip 1: Start with simple projects.
When you are first starting out, it is best to choose simple origami projects that are easy to follow and complete. This will help you build confidence and learn the basic techniques of origami.
Tip 2: Use high-quality paper.
The type of paper you use can make a big difference in the outcome of your origami project. Origami paper is specially designed for folding and is often thinner and more pliable than regular paper. This makes it easier to fold and create crisp, clean lines.
Tip 3: Be patient and persistent.
Origami can be challenging at first, but it is important to be patient and persistent. With practice, you will improve your skills and be able to create more complex origami projects.
Tip 4: Experiment with different folding techniques.
There are many different origami folding techniques that you can use to create different shapes and designs. Experiment with different techniques to find the ones that you enjoy the most and that you are good at.
With a little practice and patience, you can create beautiful and intricate origami pieces that will impress your friends and family.
Origami is a rewarding art form that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. So grab some paper and start folding!
Conclusion
Origami is a beautiful and rewarding art form that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a fun and challenging activity that can help improve hand-eye coordination, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Origami can also be a relaxing and meditative activity, helping to reduce stress and improve focus.
In this article, we have provided a step-by-step guide to creating an easy origami envelope, along with a FAQ section and some helpful tips to improve your origami skills. We hope that you have found this article informative and inspiring, and that you will continue to explore the wonderful world of origami.
Whether you are a seasoned origami enthusiast or a complete beginner, there is something for everyone in the world of origami. So grab some paper and start folding!