How to Fold an Easy Origami Water Bomb
Traditional/Unknow Are you looking for a fun and simple origami project with a twist? The traditional origami water bomb is an easy model that beginners will enjoy because of its unique 3D shape that comes to life when inflated with air.
This model requires only a few basic folds to create. You’ll also learn how to make the “waterbomb base,” which is the starting point for many other origami models.
If you have trouble inflating it, the paper might be too thick. Using light, crisp origami paper like Kami is ideal.
Let’s get started and make your paper water bomb pop!
This model is similar to the origami balloon.
Traditional Origami Water Bomb Step-by-Step Instructions
- Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 2
- Folding time: Less than 5 minutes
- Model designer: Traditional
- Paper: Kami 15×15 cm (6×6 in)
Step 1
Start with the colored side of the paper facing up. Fold and unfold in half both horizontally and vertically. Then, turn the paper over.
Step 2
Fold and unfold both diagonals.
Step 3
Collapse the paper as shown on the diagram using the existing crease, making the water bomb base.
Step 4
Bring the bottom edges of the top flaps toward the center line and fold along the dotted lines.
Step 5
Bring the left and right flaps toward the center line and fold along the dotted lines.
Step 6
Fold the top corners of the upper layers down along the dotted lines.
Step 7
Tuck the left flap into the left pocket just below it and flatten it along the dotted line. Repeat on the right side.
Step 8
Turn the model over and repeat Steps 4 to 7.
Step 9
To inflate your model, open the flaps on each side and give a gentle puff of air into the little hole at the bottom. As you do this, gently push down on the top corner to help shape the water bomb.
How to make a real paper water bomb: At this stage, instead of blowing air in the hole, cut a piece of paper so you can insert your fingers to shape the water bomb. You can now add water to it.
The Completed Origami Water Bomb
What did you think about this origami water bomb?
Don’t hesitate to share your creations with us in the comments or on socials. We’d love to see them!
Download the Full Origami Water Bomb Printable PDF Instructions
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Hi, I’m N. I want to make origami creations but I don’t have paper or the money to get it. Do you know where I can get some for little to no money?
Hi N! Depending on where you are, you might be able to find some really affordable origami paper. For simpler models, you can use regular printing paper. Just cut it into a square! Some models, like the boat, can be made with rectangular paper, so you won’t even need to cut anything for those. Happy folding!
It may be a waterbomb, but if you used water to fill the inside, wouldn’t it get wet?
Use it soon after adding water to it.
The instructions were a little unclear, but as long as you read the steps thoroughly you should be fine. Mine inflated and that’s really cool but it looks a little different from the pictures.
Hi Emrys, Thank you for your comment. We’ve just updated the whole tutorial with pictures and videos. Hope this helps!
Tutorials are very good. I made quite a few. In water bomb we need to inflate by blowing air into it
Mine failed, the bottom went all soggy and it didn’t blow up. 🙁
You don’t have to blow super hard or for a long time. There may be several reasons why your waterbomb isn’t inflating, but if your paper went all soggy, it’s likely because you don’t use the right paper. For this model, use light and crisp origami paper. It may take a few tries, but don’t worry—you’re going to get it right! 🙂
Although the part where you blow in gets soggy I think it’s really cool and surprising when you blow air into it. If it didn’t inflate make sure the flaps are folded properly and everything is compact and most of all check the pictures and look at what you made and see if anything is wrong.