How to Fold an Origami Cube

Let’s learn how to fold a Sonobe cube, one of the most popular modular origami models. It’s made from six identical units that fit together without any glue or tape.

You’ll start by folding six simple Sonobe units, then assemble them into a sturdy paper cube. The process is easier than it looks, and seeing the cube take shape is one of the most satisfying parts of the project.

This is a great model if you’re ready to try modular origami for the first time. It takes about 15 minutes to fold and assemble, and it’s a fun way to play with different paper colors. Try using two, three, or even six different colors to create your own unique pattern.

Origami Cube Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner level 2
• Folding time: 15 minutes

Folding One Unit

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper facing up. Fold it in half vertically, then unfold.

Step 2

Fold the left and right edges to the center crease, then unfold.

Step 3

Fold the top left corner to the nearest vertical crease. Do the same with the bottom right corner.

Step 4

Fold the left and right edges back to the center crease.

Step 5

Fold the top right corner to the left edge, then unfold. Do the same with the bottom left corner.

Step 6

Using the creases you made in Step 5, tuck each corner under the flap on the opposite side.

Step 7

Turn the unit over.

Step 8

On both the top and bottom edges, fold from one corner to the other along the edge, then unfold. Turn the unit over again.

One Completed Unit

You’ve finished one unit. Now fold 5 more to complete the set.

Assembly

Step 1

Place one unit in the center with its corners pointing up and down. Insert the corners of two other units, one on each side, into its pockets.

🧊 Folding Tip: You can complete Steps 1 and 2 on a flat desk. It makes the assembly much easier.

Step 2

Insert the corners of the center unit into the pockets of the top and bottom units.

Step 3

Start forming the cube by making mountain folds along the dashed lines while inserting the corners into their matching pockets.

🧊 Folding Tip: Paper clips can help hold the units together during this step, making the assembly easier.

Step 4

Place the final unit on top of the cube and insert the remaining corners into their matching pockets.

🧊 Your Origami Cube Is Complete

Nice work! Your origami cube is finished and ready to display.

I hope you enjoyed folding this Sonobe cube. Once you’ve made your first one, you’ll see why this model has been a favorite for so many years.

Try making another cube with different color or pattern combinations. Even a small change in the paper colors can give the finished cube a completely different look.

Did you know? The cube is made from six identical Sonobe modules, designed by Japanese origami artist Mitsunobu Sonobe in the late 1960s. Today, they’re used to create many modular origami models, making this cube a great introduction to the Sonobe family.

If you fold one, I’d love to see it. Feel free to share a photo in the comments.

If you’d like to keep folding, have a look at our easy origami tutorials or explore more modular origami models on the site.

You can also get new tutorials and folding ideas in our origami newsletter here. And if you’d like to fold along with videos, you can subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Download the Complete Origami Cube Printable PDF Instructions

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