how to make a paper sailboat that floats

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How to Make a Paper Boat

Last Updated: November 10, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Robert Homayoon . Robert Homayoon is an Origami Expert known for his engaging YouTube videos and accessible instructions. He has been teaching origami on YouTube since 2009. His channel has a following of over 676,000 subscribers, and his videos have garnered over 211 million views. Robert uses his channel to highlight his passion for teaching people origami, crafts, and how to solve puzzles. He graduated from SUNY Albany in 2007 and earned his D.M.D degree from Temple University Dental School in 2013. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 4,454,741 times.

Making an origami paper boat is a great activity that’s easy to finish and doesn’t require a lot of materials. The beauty of making a paper boat is that you only need one piece of printer paper to complete the task! By folding the paper with sharp creases and shaping it carefully, you can make a great-looking origami boat in minutes. We'll walk you through folding your own paper boat with our complete step-by-step instructions.

Creating the Initial Folds

• To strengthen the crease, run your finger down the fold 3-4 more times.
• You should now have 2 creases along both centers (x-axis and y-axis) of the page.
• Use the crease you made before to help line up the folds coming in from the corners.
• The 2 folds should line up with each other.

Tip : When you go to fold the second side, use the first fold as a reference point.

• The flaps closest to you should be folded in front of the back flaps, not over them. If you fold over the back flaps, you won’t be able to fold the back flaps themselves.

Making the Final Folds

• Crease the paper along its edges so that it stays in the square shape.
• The bottom of the diamond should be the part of the paper with extra folds.
• The bottom corners will line up to become the bottom point of a square diamond.
• You may need to pull up the triangle inside the diamond while pulling apart the two sides. Try to keep the triangle inside the diamond sticking straight up as this will be your boat's "mast."
• You can reinforce the corners with clear tape and tape around the bottom to keep your boat dry.

Tip : Waterproof your boat! Use a waxed paper from an art store to make your boat last longer, or color one side of the paper completely with a crayon. You can also try to make your boat out of aluminum foil.

Expert Q&A

• If you are floating your boat on a large body of water, like a pond, you can tape string onto one end of the boat. Hold on to the other end of the string so that it doesn't float away! Thanks Helpful 311 Not Helpful 146
• Try to get the edges of the paper to line up. An evenly made boat means less chances of tipping over. Thanks Helpful 58 Not Helpful 32
• If you are making a tiny boat, don’t float it on a big body of water. You may lose it! Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 11

Tips from our Readers

• If you don't have specialty supplies like wax paper or crayons, no need to fret. You likely already have the tools to waterproof your delicate paper boat right at home. Simply construct two separate boats out of ordinary printer or construction paper. Then, gently place one inside the other, nesting them together into a double-walled vessel. This should reinforce them to better withstand water without getting too soggy. Though, test float gently, as the extra weight could cause sinking if the little boat gets overburdened.
• Missing wax paper for true waterproofing? Simply equip your artist's toolkit by raiding the crayon bin! Thoroughly color one whole side of the boat with thick crayon before setting it afloat in a pool, pond or puddle. The waxy buildup should act as a shield against light water exposure. Though if embarking on choppier seas, extra reinforcements may still be needed, matey!
• Forego the plain printer paper and opt for fun vibrant colors and patterns! Tissue paper can make for a festively hued sail, but be extra delicate as it shreds easily, especially once wet. For best durability, stick to construction paper or card stock to give your boat more sturdiness as you launch it into the open water.

• Make sure you don't have any holes, as one little hole can turn into a huge rip. This could be good in a procedural text. Thanks Helpful 13 Not Helpful 3

You Might Also Like

Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about origami, check out our in-depth interview with Robert Homayoon .

• ↑ https://ussconstitutionmuseum.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Make-a-Paper-Boat-Hard.pdf
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3QZpBL8-Tg#t=1m20s
• ↑ https://www.origamiway.com/origami-boat.shtml
• ↑ https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/nature/article/make-a-paper-boat
• ↑ https://www.origamiway.com/origami-boat-2.shtml
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3QZpBL8-Tg#t=2m54s
• ↑ https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/nature/make-a-paper-boat/

About This Article

If you want to make a paper boat, fold a piece of paper in half from top to bottom. Then, fold it again from side to side and unfold so you have a crease in the center. Fold the top right corner down towards the center. Next, flip the paper over and fold the other corner down on the other side. Fold each of the bottom edges of the paper up and outwards to make a paper hat shape. Then, open the hat and flatten it horizontally to create a diamond. Fold the bottom edge of the diamond upwards towards the top. Then, turn the paper over and repeat on the other side. Pull the paper apart again and smooth it out to create a boat shape. Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Paper Sailboat for Endless Fun

Alex Morgan

Introduction to Paper Sailboats

Making a paper sailboat is a fun and creative craft activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. Whether you want to engage in a rainy day activity or simply have some leisurely fun, paper sailboats are a great option. In this article, we will explore the materials needed to make a paper sailboat, provide a step-by-step guide to creating one, and offer tips and tricks for making the perfect paper sailboat. We will explore different variations and designs for paper sailboats, as well as fun activities and games that can be enjoyed with them. Let’s dive into the world of paper sailboats and let our imaginations set sail!

Key takeaway:

• Making paper sailboats is a fun and creative activity: Paper sailboats provide an enjoyable way to explore the art of origami and enhance creativity.
• Using the right materials is crucial: Different types of paper can be used for making paper sailboats, and additional materials like adhesive might be required for certain designs.
• Step-by-step guide simplifies the process: Following a structured guide with clear steps helps in folding the hull, creating a sail, and attaching it to the hull, ensuring a successful paper sailboat creation.

Materials Needed to Make a Paper Sailboat

To create a paper sailboat, you will need the following materials:

• Paper: Ensure you have a square piece of paper. You can fold an 8.5×11-inch sheet into a square shape.
• Scissors: Cut the paper into a square.
• Pencil or pen: Use a pencil or pen to mark the paper for folding lines.
• Ruler: Make use of a ruler to create straight and accurate folds.
• Decorative materials (optional): If desired, you can decorate your sailboat using colored pens, stickers, or markers.

To make your paper sailboat, carefully follow these steps:

• Begin with a square piece of paper.
• Fold the square in half diagonally to form a triangle.
• Unfold the paper and fold it in half again diagonally in the opposite direction.
• Unfold the paper once more and fold each corner into the center, creating a diamond shape.
• Take the top point of the diamond shape and fold it down towards the bottom point, creating a triangle shape.
• Fold the two bottom corners of the triangle up towards the top, forming a smaller triangle with a flat bottom.
• Open the flaps at the bottom of the triangle and fold them outwards to shape the base of the sailboat.
• Use colored pens, stickers, or markers to decorate your sailboat as desired.
• If you used any wet materials for decoration, allow the sailboat to dry.
• Your paper sailboat is now ready to set sail!

By following these steps and gathering the necessary materials, you can easily create a paper sailboat for fun and imaginative play.

What Types of Paper Can be Used?

When making a paper sailboat, it is important to consider what types of paper can be used to ensure sturdiness and flexibility . There are several options to choose from.

One option is origami paper , which is lightweight and easy to fold. It holds its shape well, making it a good choice for creating the structure of the sailboat.

Another option is cardstock , which is thicker and more durable. It provides stability and strength to the sailboat, ensuring that it will hold up well during use.

Construction paper is also a versatile option, offering a wide range of colors. This type of paper can add color and creativity to the design of the sailboat, making it visually appealing.

For those looking for a thicker paper with a variety of designs, scrapbook paper is a great choice. It enhances the visual appeal of the sailboat and adds an extra layer of interest to the design.

Personally, I have made a paper sailboat using origami paper in the past. It was a vibrant and easy-to-fold option, allowing for intricate details on the sailboat. The lightweight nature of the paper also made it glide smoothly on the water. It brought joy to my nephew as he watched it float in a mini pool.

When making your own paper sailboat, it is important to consider the type of paper you choose. The right paper can make a huge difference in the overall experience. So, be sure to choose wisely and enjoy the process of creating your very own paper sailboat!

Additional Materials Required

The construction process of a paper sailboat requires additional materials such as scissors and glue . These materials are essential for improving the sturdiness of the sailboat. Scissors are utilized for precise cutting, resulting in clean edges. Glue plays a crucial role in securing all parts of the sailboat, guaranteeing its integrity during both playtime and display. Incorporating both scissors and glue into the process significantly enhances the quality and durability of the paper sailboat.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Paper Sailboat

Get ready to set sail with a step-by-step guide on making a paper sailboat ! We’ll take you through the process of folding the hull , creating the sail , and attaching it to the hull. From the first fold to the final touch, you’ll have all the know-how to create your own miniature vessel . So grab some paper and let’s navigate the seas of creativity together!

Step 1: Folding the Hull

To make the hull of a paper sailboat, follow these steps:

– Step 1: Start with a square piece of paper.

– Step 2: Place the paper in front of you in a diamond shape, with one corner pointing towards you.

– Step 3: Fold the bottom corner up to meet the top corner, creating a triangle.

– Step 4: Unfold the triangle, then fold the left corner to the center of the triangle.

– Step 5: Repeat with the right corner, folding it to the center of the triangle.

– Step 6: Flip the paper over to the other side.

– Step 7: Take the top layer of the left corner and fold it towards the center line.

– Step 8: Repeat with the right corner.

– Step 9: Unfold the left and right corners.

– Step 10: Take the bottom corner and fold it up towards the top point of the triangle.

– Step 11: Flip the paper over to the other side.

– Step 12: Fold the bottom corner up again, leaving a small gap between the fold and the top point.

– Step 13: Unfold the paper completely, and you now have the folded hull of your paper sailboat.

Following these steps will allow you to create a sturdy and functional hull for your paper sailboat. Be precise with your folds to ensure the best results.

Step 2: Creating the Sail

• Select an 8-inch by 8-inch square piece of paper.
• Fold the square in half diagonally to create a triangle.
• Unfold the paper and fold the top two corners down to the center crease to make a smaller triangle.
• Fold the bottom point of the triangle up towards the top point, leaving a small space at the top.
• Fold the two outer edges of the triangle inward to meet at the center crease and create a diamond.
• Flip the diamond over and fold the bottom point up towards the top point, leaving a small space at the top again.
• Fold the right and left corners of the top layer towards the center line of the diamond.
• While still folded, fold the entire diamond in half vertically.
• Unfold the top layer to reveal the sail of your paper sailboat.
• Optional: Use markers, stickers, or other decorations to personalize your paper sailboat.

Origami sailboats , originated in Japan , have a long-standing tradition dating back centuries. These miniature vessels , with their intricate folds and precise techniques, have been passed down through generations, bringing joy to both children and adults. Paper sailboats were commonly used in traditional Japanese celebrations and festivals, symbolizing good luck and prosperous journeys. Today, making paper sailboats remains a popular craft activity, providing a fun and creative way to explore origami .

Step 3: Attaching the Sail to the Hull

• Begin by folding and creating the sail.
• Next , position the sail on top of the hull, making sure to align the bottom edge of the sail with the top edge of the hull.
• To secure the sail in place, use a small amount of glue or adhesive tape.
• Make sure that the sail is straight and centered on the hull.
• Gently press down to create a strong bond between the sail and the hull.
• Before moving or playing with the paper sailboat, allow the glue to dry completely.

Paper sailboats have been a cherished tradition originating in ancient China. Just like origami boats, they were used in various festivities to symbolize good luck and prosperity. Nowadays, both children and adults enjoy making paper sailboats as crafts. These boats not only provide entertainment but also serve as a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of handmade objects. Attaching the sail to the hull is a crucial step in completing the paper sailboat and preparing it for exciting adventures in bathtubs, puddles, or miniature ponds.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Paper Sailboat

To create the perfect paper sailboat , follow these tips and tricks for making the perfect paper sailboat . Begin by starting with a square piece of paper , as this will ensure balanced proportions and make folding easier. Fold the paper in half diagonally to form a triangle , making sure to press firmly to create a sharp crease . Next, unfold the triangle and fold the bottom edge up to meet the top, creating a smaller triangle shape .

Then, take the right corner of the triangle and bring it towards the center , repeating this step with the left corner . After that, fold the bottom edge of the paper up to meet the top, resulting in a square shape . Fold the sides in towards the center . Flip the paper over and fold the bottom corners up to the top, forming a diamond shape .

Carefully unfold the two sides of the diamond to create the sail . Adjust the angle of the sail by making small folds along the bottom edge . To ensure proper flotation , fold the bottom edges inward to create a small base for balance in the water . Test your boat in a basin of water to ensure it floats correctly.

By following these tips and tricks , you will be able to create a perfect paper sailboat . Enjoy the process of crafting your own miniature boat and have fun sailing it in the water .

Different Variations and Designs for Paper Sailboats

If you’re ready to embark on a paper crafting adventure, you’ll be amazed at the plethora of different variations and designs available for making paper sailboats . From the simplicity of a basic origami sailboat to the intricate techniques of an advanced cut and fold sailboat , these sub-sections offer a range of possibilities to explore. So grab your paper, fold, cut, and let your creativity set sail !

Simple Origami Sailboat

To create a Simple Origami Sailboat , you just need to follow these steps:

• Start with a square piece of paper.
• Place the paper in front of you with one corner pointing towards you.
• Fold the paper in half diagonally, bringing the opposite corners together.
• Unfold and repeat step 3, folding it in half diagonally in the opposite direction.
• Rotate the paper so that one of the folded corners is facing towards you.
• Fold the two outer corners of the paper towards the center, forming a triangle shape .
• Flip the paper over and fold the bottom edge upwards to create the sailboat’s hull.
• Open up the bottom of the hull to make a flat base.
• Create the sail by folding a small rectangle of paper in half diagonally.
• Tuck one corner of the triangle sail into the opening at the top of the hull.

You can experiment with different sizes and colors of paper to make a fleet of simple origami sailboats .

Advanced Cut and Fold Sailboat

To create an Advanced Cut and Fold Sailboat , follow these steps:

1. Choose sturdy paper, like cardstock or construction paper , for support.

2. Start with a rectangular piece of paper, preferably 8.5 x 11 inches .

3. Fold the paper in half lengthwise to create a center crease .

4. Unfold the paper and fold the top edges towards the center crease , creating diagonal folds meeting at the top.

5. Flip the paper over and fold the bottom corners up towards the center crease , following the previous diagonal folds .

6. Fold the bottom edge of the paper up to meet the top edge , aligning the sides and creating a triangle shape at the bottom.

7. Flip the paper over, keeping the triangle shape at the bottom. Fold the bottom corners inwards towards the center crease , creating 45-degree angles .

8. Unfold the previous step and carefully cut along the creases , starting from the bottom and stopping before reaching the top.

9. Fold the paper back into its original shape, tucking the triangles created in step 7 into the slits made in step 8.

10. Create a sail by cutting a small rectangle from a different colored paper. Attach the sail to the back of the sailboat, near the top.

11. Your Advanced Cut and Fold Sailboat is now complete! It is ready to set sail in the imagination of your paper fleet.

Fun Activities and Games with Paper Sailboats

Looking for some fun activities and games with paper sailboats? Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Racing: Set up a racecourse in a pool or a bathtub and have a friendly competition to see whose paper sailboat reaches the finish line first.

2. Obstacle Course: Create an obstacle course using household objects like pillows, books, or small toys. Test your skills by navigating your paper sailboat through the course without touching any obstacles.

3. Float and Sink: Test the stability of your paper sailboat by adding different objects one by one. See how many objects it can hold before sinking.

4. Design Challenge: Have a design contest with your friends or family. Each person creates their own unique paper sailboat design using colorful paper, markers, and craft materials. Then float them in water and see whose design performs the best.

5. Treasure Hunt: Hide small objects around the house or yard and use the paper sailboats as vessels for finding treasure. Sail them to discover hidden treasures and collect them along the way.

These activities and games with paper sailboats are not only fun but also great for enhancing creativity and problem-solving skills. So get ready to set sail and embark on some exciting adventures with your paper sailboats!

Some Facts About How To Make A Paper Sailboat:

• ✅ Making a paper sailboat is a fun and easy craft project that introduces the art of origami. (Source: One Little Project)
• ✅ All you need is a piece of printer paper to create a paper sailboat. (Source: One Little Project)
• ✅ The process involves folding the paper in half lengthwise and width-wise, and then folding the top corners downwards to align with the center fold. (Source: One Little Project)
• ✅ After folding the bottom flaps and creating a square shape, the paper sailboat is ready to be floated on water. (Source: WikiHow)
• ✅ Adding tape to the corners and bottom of the paper sailboat can help make it waterproof and prevent water from seeping in. (Source: WikiHow)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i make a paper sailboat with printer paper.

Step 1: Start by folding a piece of letter-sized printer paper in half lengthwise and then width-wise.

Step 2: Rotate the paper and fold the top corners downwards to line up with the center fold.

Step 3: Fold one layer of the bottom flap upwards and flip the paper over to fold the little flaps behind the triangle shape.

Step 4: Fold the remaining bottom flap upwards.

Step 5: Pick up the folded paper and pull your thumbs apart to flatten it.

Step 6: Fold the bottom point up to meet the top point and flip the paper over to repeat the fold.

Step 7: Run your fingers along the folds to ensure they are flat and all edges are folded.

Step 8: Pull apart the sides of the folded paper at the top point to create a boat shape. Pinch along the bottom edges to make folds on each side and your paper boat is complete.

Can I make a paper sailboat with origami paper?

Yes, you can make a paper sailboat with origami paper. Follow the same steps mentioned earlier, but remember to use proper cutting techniques if needed.

How long will the paper sailboat float in water?

The paper sailboat will float in water for at least 10 minutes before becoming waterlogged. To make it last longer, you can add a layer of tape to the bottom for better waterproofing.

What kind of paper should I use to make a paper sailboat?

You can use regular printer paper or construction paper to make a paper sailboat. If you have origami paper, that can also be used with proper cutting techniques.

Can I put things in the paper sailboat?

Yes, you can put lightweight items in the paper sailboat. If you are placing the boat in water, make sure to only put lightweight items to prevent the boat from tipping over.

How long does it take to make a paper sailboat?

Making a paper sailboat with regular printer paper typically takes about five minutes. It is a quick and easy craft project that can be enjoyed by kids.

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How To Make An Origami Boat That Floats Video Walkthrough

There you have it, that short video tutorial should be an easy and fun way for you to learn how to make an origami boat that floats! So what are you waiting for? Get out your paper and give it a try!

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How To Make An Origami Boat That Floats Step-By-Step Instructions

1. creating horizontal and vertical creases.

Fold in half horizontally and vertically. Then fold back to make crease.

2. Folding Diagonal Creases and Turning Over

Fold in the dotted lines and fold back to make crease. Then turn over.

3. Folding Flaps Toward the Top

Fold in the dotted lines as directed by the arrow such that the flap is towards the top. Do that for the left and right diagonal.

4. Bringing Flaps Downward

Bring the flap downward towards the center.

5. Creating Center Creases

Fold the right and left diagonal towards the center and unfold to make crease.

6. Folding and Unfolding Flaps

Fold the two flaps in the dotted lines and unfold to make crease.

7. Opening the Origami Model

Open the model.

8. Performing a Squash Fold

Squash fold.

9. Executing a Pocket Fold

Pocket fold.

10. Folding and Unfolding for Creases

Fold in the dotted line and unfold to make crease.

11. Bringing Flaps Toward the Center

Fold in the dotted line and bring the two flaps toward the center.

12. Completing the Pocket Fold

Pocket fold in the dotted lines.

13. Admiring the Final Result

Congratulations! You have successfully completed the origami project. Enjoy your final result!

There you go! If you enjoy instructions more than videos I hope that these were simple and easy to follow! Bellow you’ll find the same instructions but in one large printable graphic!

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If you've always wanted to play with boats in the tub, but your parents wouldn't get one for you, don't worry. I will show you how to make an origami boat out of paper, and yes it floats...for a little bit, but it's still fun nonetheless. However, I heard that if you color the bottom of the boat with crayon, then it will float longer. Just be careful not to splash too much water on it!

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Research studies say that origami was first invented about a thousand years ago by the Japanese, but its roots may well be in China. The term refers to the craft of paper folding. The word "origami" is an inclusive term for the folding process of paper. "Ori" means "folding," and "gami" means "paper." The objective of origami is to transform a flat square sheet of paper into a fully completed piece of art through folding techniques and cutting methods.

How to Make a Paper Boat Float Longer?

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How to Make a Paper Boat?

The origami boat is actually very simple to make. All you need is a rectangular piece of paper, so any 8.5x11 copy or lined paper will do. Then follow the instructions and pictures carefully and you'll be able to make your own origami boat that floats.

With the help of this simple step-by-step lesson, you can quickly and easily create the most well-known origami paper boat.

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How to Make a Paper Boat: The 10-Step Process

• Art & Crafts , DIY Projects

Have you ever wanted to learn how to make a paper boat? Perhaps you want to learn how to make a paperboat or maybe have a bunch of kids that love to play with craft items and making crafts can bring joy into their lives.

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If you have a creative streak, but don’t know how to put it to use, a paper boat will make your life easier. I love making these little boats when I’m bored. I do it at work and at home; on my lunch break and when I should be doing something else. It’s also a great introduction to origami , the Japanese art of folding paper for artistic purposes.

Whatever your reason may be, this article will show how to make your own with easy-to-follow instructions on how to make a simple paper boat out of recycled materials, such as paper towels, craft paper, newspaper, and magazine pages.

How to make a paper boat

The greatest thing about paper boats is that they’re cheap to make. You can use multiple sizes of paper, you don’t need a lot of tools or materials and the experience lasts for years.

Table of Contents

What you’ll require:.

• Paper: such as paper towels, craft paper, newspaper, magazine pages, or A4 printing paper

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In the following steps, I’ll show you how to make your own paper boat — from start to finish. With the aid of folding the paper into neat creases and shaping it to look like a boat, you may create a beautiful paper boat in minutes.

As you can see, it isn’t a long process. Simply follow each step, measure out your paper, fold it, and there you have it—a wonderfully crafted boat. Go out in the backyard and test it out! If you find that the boat sinks, try using heavier paper or adding some weight to help keep it afloat.

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How to Make a Paper Boat | Origami Boat Tutorial

Origami, the art of paper folding, is a delightful pastime that allows you to create intricate designs using a simple sheet of paper. Among the many fascinating origami creations, the origami boat is a classic and timeless design that can be easily mastered by beginners. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to create a simple origami boat.

To begin, select a square sheet of paper. You can use origami paper, colored paper, or even a plain white sheet. Place the paper in front of you, ensuring that one corner is facing upwards.

Fold the paper in half diagonally, creating a triangle. Make sure the edges are aligned accurately, and crease the fold firmly. Next, unfold the triangle and repeat the same step by folding the paper diagonally in the opposite direction. Once again, unfold the paper to reveal a creased “X” shape.

Table of Contents

What you need;

Square piece of paper:

How do you make an origami boat step by step?

Origami boats are a classic and enjoyable paper folding project. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of creating an origami boat. With just a square sheet of paper and a few simple folds, you’ll be able to make your very own paper boat. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced origami enthusiast, this guide will help you create a charming origami boat that can sail your imagination’s seas. Let’s dive into the world of origami and get started on this delightful project.

Certainly! Here is a step-by-step guide to making an origami boat:

Take the object and fold it in half according to the demonstrated method. Afterward, proceed to fold it once more, but only partially this time, creating a crease in close proximity to the upper section.

Please refer to the image on the left below, where you can clearly observe the crease. This crease serves as a guide to align the corners appropriately. Proceed to fold down the corners as indicated in the image below.

Begin by folding each edge of the paper upwards, following the instructions provided. As demonstrated, use your fingers to carefully open up the folds, resulting in the formation of a hat. At this point, you can choose to conclude the folding process and enjoy your hat. However, if you wish to proceed further, you have the option to transform the hat into a boat.

To transform the hat into a square shape, bring the corners of the hat brim towards each other. As you do this, you will notice that the edges of the brim will naturally push outwards. This action can be likened to “squashing” the hat, gradually reshaping it into a square.

Next, select one of the lower corners of the square and fold it upwards, creating a triangular shape. Flip the folded piece over and repeat the same folding process for the other corner. Now, you should have a folded triangle. To continue, carefully open up the folded triangle and bring the corners together, aligning them neatly…

Once you have the folded triangle, proceed to “squash” it again into a square shape, similar to the middle photo provided. Gently pull on the folded edges to unfold the paper and reveal the boat shape. If you prefer, you can turn the boat over and expand the hole in the bottom. Enlarging the hole will improve the boat’s balance and floating ability.

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Frequently Asked Question

Can i use any size of paper to make an origami boat.

While it’s possible to make an origami boat with different sizes of paper, it is generally easier to work with a square sheet of paper. The size of the paper will determine the final size of the boat. Larger paper will result in a bigger boat, while smaller paper will create a smaller boat. It’s recommended to start with a square piece of paper, but you can experiment with different sizes to achieve the desired result.

What if I don’t have origami paper?

If you don’t have origami paper, you can use any square-shaped paper, such as regular printer paper, construction paper, or even recycled paper. You can easily make a square from rectangular paper by folding it diagonally and trimming off the excess. The key is to have a square shape to begin with, as it makes the folding process easier.

Can I decorate or personalize my origami boat?

Absolutely! Origami boats can be a fun and creative project. Once you’ve folded your boat, you can use markers, crayons, or colored pencils to add designs or patterns to the paper. Just be mindful not to use heavy materials that may weigh down the paper or make it difficult to fold.

How can I make the origami boat float in water?

While origami boats are not typically designed to float for extended periods, you can take some steps to make them float temporarily. You can apply a thin layer of waterproof sealant or wax on the surface of the boat to make it more water-resistant. Additionally, you can use lightweight materials, such as toothpicks or small pieces of cork, to create a simple raft-like structure underneath the boat, which can improve its floating ability.

Can I unfold the origami boat once it’s folded?

Yes, you can unfold the origami boat by reversing the folding steps. Gently unfold the paper along the creases you made, taking care not to tear or damage the paper. This allows you to reuse the paper or try folding a different origami model.

Making a simple origami boat is a fun and enjoyable activity. All you need is a square piece of paper, and you can follow the step-by-step instructions to create your own boat. Remember, while origami boats may not float for an extended period, you can decorate them and make them temporarily float by applying a waterproof sealant or adding lightweight materials. Don’t hesitate to get creative and personalize your origami boat. Enjoy the process of folding and have fun with your finished creation!

Chrissy is a freelance writer, teacher, and designer who creates content on origami and paper crafts. She runs the site Origami Step and makes her own origami tutorials for readers. She has been writing about origami since 2008 and is the founder of website Origami Step, where she creates videos, resources, and printable origami paper.

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How to Make a Floating Paper Boat

Introduction: How to Make a Floating Paper Boat

This is a simple 10 step process of how to make an origami floating paper boat.

Here are a few key points to remember:

• Do not worry if your paper boat leans towards its side
• Please follow the steps at your own pace

Step 1: Step 1

Fold your construction paper hot dog style.

Step 2: Step 2

Unfold paper and refold the paper hamburger style, you should have an X and Y-axis on the paper. (4 quadrants)

Step 3: Step 3

Flip the paper (still in hamburger style) 180 degrees so that the opening is facing you. Then fold down the top left and right corners along the middle crease (in a triangular form) allowing about 1 ½ in. of unfolded space.

Step 4: Step 4

Take the extra 1 ½ inches of unfolded paper and fold up over the triangles on the front and backside. (It should resemble a paper hat)

Step 5: Step 5

Looking at the paper hat figure, take the top left corner of the rectangle paper and fold away from you along the triangles edge. Take the back left corner of the rectangle and fold towards you, overlapping the fold previously made. Repeat the same steps for the right side corners.

Step 6: Step 6

Pick up the paper and rotate 45 degrees, use your thumbs to open up the folds to create a diamond like figure. Once in the diamond shape squish it to make a square. (May need to turn it back 45 degrees to see the square figure) Press down along the creases to keep the square shape.

Step 7: Step 7

Arrange the paper so that the opening is facing you. Fold one flap upwards to match the top corner, flip paper over and repeat with the other side. You should have a triangle figure.

Step 8: Step 8

Repeat step 6. Should have a smaller square/diamond figure.

( Step 6 ) Pick up the paper and rotate 45 degrees, use your thumbs to open up the folds to create a diamond like figure. Once in the diamond shape squish it to make a square. (May need to turn it back 45 degrees to see the square figure) Press down along the creases to keep the square shape.

Step 9: Step 9

Turn the square to a diamond shape and pull apart the top of the triangles so that 3 triangles appear (2 on the sides 1 in the middle). Gently pull the two side triangles away from each other and press down on the bottom crease so that the boat is stronger.!

Step 10: Step 10

Place in water and watch your boat float!

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