How to Fold an Easy Origami Lantern
Let’s make a traditional origami lantern, a symbol deeply rooted in Japanese tradition. While origami is known for its animal designs like cranes, the lantern stands out with its own charm during festivals. It symbolizes guidance, protection, and the illumination of darkness.
The origami lantern is super easy to fold, making it perfect for beginners. Let’s get started!
Traditional Origami Lantern Step-by-Step Instructions
- Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 2
- Folding time: Less than 5 minutes
- Model designer: Traditional
- Recommended paper: Chiyogami 15×15 cm (6×6 in)
Step 1
Start with the white side of the paper facing up. Fold both diagonals in half and unfold.
Step 2
Fold the four corners to the center point and turn the paper over.
Step 3
Similar to the previous step, fold the four corners to the center point and turn the paper over.
Step 4
One last time, fold the four corners to the center point and turn the paper over.
Step 5
Open up the two flaps at the top while lifting up along the dotted lines. Make a swivel fold and push everything flat.
Repeat the same on the opposite corner, at the bottom.
The Completed Origami Lantern
Congratulations on completing your paper lantern!
Feel free to play around with different paper textures, colors, and sizes to add more fun. Here we used a beautiful chiyogami (patterned paper).
And don’t forget to share your origami birds with us in the comments or on social media. Happy folding!
