Make A Paper Fortune Teller: Easy Origami Guide
Want to relive your childhood or entertain kids with a classic paper toy? Making a paper fortune teller, also known as a cootie catcher, is super easy and fun! This simple origami project requires nothing more than a square piece of paper and a few minutes of your time. Let's dive in! — Leamington Spa College: Courses, Reviews & More
What You'll Need
- A square piece of paper (6x6 inches or larger works best)
- Pens or markers for decorating
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Fold in Half
- Start with your square piece of paper.
- Fold it in half diagonally, crease well, and unfold. This will create a crease from one corner to the opposite corner.
- Repeat with the other two corners. You should now have an 'X' crease on your paper.
Step 2: Fold Corners to the Center
- Take one corner and fold it to the exact center of the square.
- Repeat with the remaining three corners. Now, all four corners should meet in the middle, forming a smaller square.
Step 3: Flip It Over
- Turn the folded paper over to the other side.
- You should see another smaller square.
Step 4: Fold Corners to the Center (Again!)
- Just like before, fold each of the four corners to the center of the square.
- Crease well after each fold.
Step 5: Fold in Half
- Fold the square in half, crease, and unfold.
- Fold it in half again in the opposite direction, crease, and unfold.
Step 6: Make it Work
- Slide your thumbs and index fingers under the four flaps.
- Gently push the corners together to form the fortune teller shape.
- Work the joints back and forth a few times to loosen them up.
Decorate Your Fortune Teller
Step 1: Write Numbers
- On the outside flaps, write numbers 1 through 8. These are the numbers people will choose from.
Step 2: Write Colors or Symbols
- Under each number, write a color or draw a symbol. These add another layer of choice for the user.
Step 3: Write Fortunes
- Lift each flap to reveal the inside. Write a fortune or prediction under each color or symbol. Get creative and have fun with these!
How to Play
- Have someone choose a color or symbol.
- Spell out the color (or say the symbol) while opening and closing the fortune teller for each letter or syllable.
- Next, have them choose a number.
- Open and close the fortune teller that many times.
- Have them pick a final number and reveal their fortune!
Tips and Tricks
- Use thicker paper for a more durable fortune teller.
- Get creative with your fortunes—add jokes, silly predictions, or even mini-challenges.
- Decorate with glitter, stickers, or drawings to personalize your creation.
Why Paper Fortune Tellers Are Still Fun
Paper fortune tellers are a fantastic blend of simplicity and entertainment. They encourage creativity, interaction, and a bit of playful mystery. Plus, they're an excellent way to keep kids (and adults!) engaged without needing batteries or screens. — Khabib Nurmagomedov's Height: How Tall Is He?
Ready to make your own? Grab a piece of paper and let the folding fun begin!