Origami is a wonderful way to keep kids creatively engaged while helping them build fine motor skills, focus, and patience. Whether you’re a teacher looking for a classroom activity, a parent planning a quiet afternoon craft, or just introducing your child to the art of paper folding, these easy and fun origami crafts are perfect for beginners. With simple step-by-step instructions, kids of all ages can enjoy turning paper into animals, bookmarks, and more—all while learning and having fun!

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What Supplies do I need for Origami?

One of the best things about origami is how few supplies you actually need. Most projects require just a single sheet of paper, making it a budget-friendly and low-prep craft. However, having a few extra items on hand can help kids with folding and decorating their creations.

Here are the basic supplies you might want:

  • Origami paper or square paper – Thin paper works best, and colorful or patterned paper makes the craft more fun.

  • Scissors – Useful if you need to cut paper into a square shape (note: traditional origami doesn’t use cutting).

  • Glue or tape – Optional, for projects that include attaching eyes or decorations.

  • Markers or crayons – For decorating faces or adding detail.

  • Googly eyes or stickers – Great for bringing animals and characters to life.

These simple tools make it easy for kids to dive into origami with minimal mess and lots of creativity.

17 Easy Origami Crafts for Kids

Looking for simple and creative paper crafts for kids? These 17 easy origami projects are perfect for beginners and young crafters. With fun designs and step-by-step instructions, kids can fold their way to animals, bookmarks, and more—all with just a piece of paper!

Apple Box Craft for Back to School

A charming 3D apple-shaped box made from cardstock—perfect for storing pencils, notes, or treats on Sugar, Spice and Glitter.
👉 More details at Sugar, Spice and Glitter

Easter Bunny Corner Bookmark

This cute origami bookmark tucks over a page corner and features floppy bunny ears—complete with a printable template. Easy and festive, it’s a fun Easter project from Sugar, Spice and Glitter.
👉 Learn more at Sugar, Spice and Glitter

Monster Corner Bookmark

This fun and silly origami craft turns a simple piece of paper into a playful monster that hugs the corner of your book. Kids can customize it with sharp teeth, googly eyes, and bright colors for a bookmark that’s as unique as they are!
👉 From Paper Scissors Craft

Fortune Teller Origami (with template)

A classic childhood favorite, the origami fortune teller (also called a cootie catcher) is easy to fold and fun to play with. Kids can write jokes, dares, or simple fortunes inside to surprise their friends with every flip! Download the Blank Fortune Teller Template.

Origami Paper Ghost

A simple and fun Halloween project using just one square sheet of paper, resulting in an adorable ghost. The step-by-step folding guide from Crafts Kids Love makes it easy for kids to follow.
👉 Instructions at Crafts Kids Love

Origami Bells Craft for Kids

These charming paper bells add a festive touch and are perfect for holiday décor. The tutorial from The Gingerbread House guides young crafters through each fold.
👉 From The Gingerbread House

Valentine Heart Origami Bookmark

Fold a paper heart into a corner bookmark—ideal for Valentine’s Day gifting or class crafts. The clear tutorial on The Gingerbread House makes this sweet project simple.
👉 From The Gingerbread House

Build an Airplane

Build a fun airplane using these 6 different designs with a free template.
👉From One Little Project

Origami Witch’s Hat

A trick-or-treat favorite! This easy origami witch’s hat is festive for Halloween decorating or party favors. The Gingerbread House provides child-friendly steps.
👉 From The Gingerbread House

Simple Origami Tulips

Create springtime tulips from folded paper—bright, easy, and kid-appropriate. Make and Takes shares a delightful tutorial perfect for bouquets or classroom décor.
👉 From Make and Takes

Easy Origami Whale

Fold a playful paper whale that’s both adorable and beginner-friendly. The step-by-step guide makes it accessible for kids.
👉 From TonyStaab.com

Origami Cat

Craft a sweet paper cat featuring pointy ears and expressive features. Crafts Kids Love offers a clear picture-based tutorial for little hands.
👉 From Crafts Kids Love

Origami Candy Box

This step-by-step tutorial teaches kids how to fold a charming origami candy box—perfect for treats, party favors, or small surprises. It’s a sweet and simple craft that builds patience and precision.
👉From Fluxing Well

Butterfly Corner Origami Bookmark

This delightful butterfly corner bookmark is both decorative and useful. With a printable template and clear instructions, it’s a perfect origami craft for young readers.
👉 From Easy Foldable Creations

Origami Apple

Kids will love folding this bright, cheerful apple—a great back-to-school or fall-themed craft. The simple design makes it ideal for beginners.
👉 From Fold Your Way

Origami Bee

Buzz into fun with this adorable origami bee craft. The easy folds and playful design make it a great activity for springtime or nature-themed lessons.
👉 From Fold Your Way

Origami Cup

This classic origami cup is a simple fold that kids can actually use to hold small objects (or even water for a short time!). A timeless project that blends fun and function.
👉 From Strength and Sunshine

Which One Will You Make?

Origami crafts offer more than just creative fun—they also provide a hands-on learning experience that encourages concentration, following directions, and artistic expression. From butterflies to candy boxes, these step-by-step origami ideas make crafting accessible and exciting for kids. Be sure to bookmark your favorites and revisit them anytime you need a screen-free, mess-free activity that sparks imagination and creativity.