An origami box is one of the most useful paper folding projects you can make. There are many different versions of origami boxes, ranging from simple to very elaborate. You can find square boxes, rectangular boxes, round boxes, and heart shaped boxes as well as boxes with embellishments folded directly into the lid. A box can even be part of handmade greeting card, such as in an origami exploding box card.
The origami box featured in this tutorial is a simple box created from a single sheet of 8 ½ inch x 11 inch paper. When completed, the finished box measures 4 ¼ inches x 5 ½ inches. It's a quick project that is perfect for older children or adult beginners to fold. It would also be a good project to choose if you are teaching a class about the basics of origami.
1. Create the Vertical Folds
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You can use regular printer paper or colored construction paper to make your origami box, but this tutorial uses printed scrapbook paper. You could also print free origami paper at home to make a more attractive looking box, as long as you have access to a printer with borderless printing capabilities. If you're concerned about the durability of the finished model, fold your origami box from lightweight cardstock and go over each crease with a bone folder or a ruler.
To begin making your origami box, place your paper vertically on the table. If your paper is printed on one side, start with the printed side facing the table. Fold your paper in half, then unfold. Fold each side in so it meets the center crease, then unfold. When you're finished, your paper should look like the photo to the left.
2. Create the Horizontal Folds
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Turn your paper so it's resting horizontally on the table. Fold your paper in half, then unfold. Fold each side in so it meets the center crease.
3. Fold the Corners
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Fold the top right hand corner down so it meets the first of the three horizontal creases you created in the last step. Repeat this process with the other corners of your paper.
4. Fold the Edges
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Fold the middle edges back over the folded corners. When you're finished, your origami box should look like the photo at the left.
5. Complete Your Origami Box
© Dana Hinders
With your hands on the middle creases, gently open your origami box. If your origami box isn't holding its shape properly, pinch the sides to reinforce the creases.
To create a box with a lid, repeat the steps with a sheet of paper trimmed to measure 8 inches by 10 ½ inches. When you're finished, the box folded from the smaller paper will fit inside the box folded from the 8 ½ inch x 11 inch paper.
If desired, you can decorate your origami box with stickers or small folded embellishments such as an origami bird or origami heart.
Fill your origami box with wrapped candies, jewelry, or a small gift to make a lovely present for Valentine's Day or other special occasions. You can also use origami boxes to store small items around your home, such as paper clips, rubber bands, extra batteries, or small board game pieces.
