How to Fold an Origami Heart Bookmark 💖 Step-by-Step Instructions

This origami bookmark is a lovely and thoughtful model designed by the late Francis Ow, an origami artist known for his many heart-themed creations.

It’s simple, elegant, and makes a perfect little gift or a cute addition to your current read. With just a bit of folding experience, you can make one in a few minutes, and the best part is you can fold two bookmarks from a single 15 x 15 cm square.

Whether you use patterned paper, soft colors, or something more playful, the heart shape always shines through.

Origami Heart Bookmark Step-by-Step Instructions

Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 4
Folding time: 5 to 10 minutes
Model designer: Francis Ow
Paper: 7.5×15 cm (3×6 in) Kami or Chiyogami

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Step 1

Let’s prep the paper! Start with a 15×15 cm (6×6 in) square. You’ll be able to make two heart bookmarks from one sheet.

With the white side facing up, fold the paper in half vertically, then unfold.

Step 2

Cut along the crease from Step 1. Set one half aside and use the other for the bookmark.

Step 3

Fold the top edge to meet the right edge. Then, unfold.

Step 4

Fold the top edge to the left edge. Then, unfold.

Step 5

Fold and unfold in half vertically again. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 6

Fold the top edge down. The crease should pass through the point where the diagonal creases from Steps 3 and 4 intersect. Then, unfold.

Step 7

Fold the top edge down to the crease from Step 6. Only crease between the diagonal lines. Unfold, then turn the paper over.

Step 8

Collapse the paper along the existing creases into a waterbomb base.

Step 9

Fold and unfold the bottom edge of the top-left flap to the centerline. Repeat on the right side.

Step 10

Bring the bottom edge of the top layer up and squash fold along the existing creases.

Step 11

Flip the top-left flap over to the right.

Step 12

Fold the left edge to the centerline. Then, unfold.

Step 13

Lift the top layer and fold it along the crease made in Step 12 to create a new flap.

Step 14

Bring the new flap down.

Step 15

Inside reverse fold the new flap.

Step 16

Flip the top-right flap over to the left.

Step 17

Repeat Steps 11 to 16 on the right side.

Step 18

Fold the top flap up. The triangle portion at the top should fold behind the model.

Step 19

Fold both side edges to the centerline.

Step 20

At the center, fold the left and right corners in to meet the reference points.

Step 21

Fold the outer corners in so they align with the flaps folded in Step 20.

Step 22

Fold the two tips down slightly to shape the heart.

Step 23

Turn the model over.

Step 24

Fold the bottom left and right edges in to the centerline.

Step 25

Inside reverse fold along the creases made in Step 24.

🎉 All folded with love! Your heart bookmark is complete.

origami heart bookmark paper fold completed

Your bookmark is ready to slide onto the corner of your favorite page.

It’s a simple model, but one that feels meaningful, both for its design and for the artist behind it. If you enjoyed this fold, feel free to share it with someone or make a few extras as gifts.

You can also tag us on social media or leave a comment to show us how yours turned out. And if you want more relaxing folds like this one, feel free to join our newsletter or check out our latest YouTube tutorials.

Download the Full Origami Heart Bookmark Printable PDF Instructions

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