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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 4,469,267 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 15 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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ann wood handmade

sewing patterns, crafts and diy projects

make a paper boat : a free tutorial

Some projects are most satisfying to work on in batches. These paper boats are like that. They are quick and easy and you can make a bunch at once without much extra effort. Plus the finished group is very satisfying.  You probably already have most of the materials you need and you could easily be hanging a respectable fleet by the end of the day, who doesn’t want that?

download the boat template

You will also need:.

• heavy paper (I’m using water color paper) or light cardboard (like poster board)
• a bamboo skewer
• paper for the sail
• elmer’s glue
• embroidery thread or light string (like baker’s twine)
• paints, brushes  and/or collage materials
• exacto knife
• clothespins or paperclips for clamping

*Please read through all the steps before beginning.

*Also note I included some simple directions on the sail template for your convenience  but the directions below include more details and options.

1.  Cut out the boat and mast support templates and trace them onto light cardboard or a heavy weight paper. I’m Using water color paper (140 pound hot press is my favorite). Optional – paint both sides. I almost always paint a wash of water color on both sides of the boat and mast support.

2. Place the template back on the boat and poke your pencil through where the score lines intersect. Mark with a dot. Remove the template and draw on the score lines. Draw the score lines on the mast support too and mark an X on the center of the top section.

3. Use the back of an x-acto knife to score the lines on the boat and  mast support.

4. Gently fold the boat and mast support at the score lines.

5. Add glue to the last section of the mast support, fold it into a triangle and glue the top section over it.

6. Clamp with paper clip or clothespins while it dries.

7. While your mast support dries paint or collage or draw on your boat. I did all three. I used a wash of watercolor, some pencil lines and a little collage. If you’re doing lots of collage I recommend using nori paste instead of blue stick . It is awesome. You can find it here . * FYI – this is an affiliate link – meaning I get a small commission if you purchase through the link.

8. Apply glue to the bow as indicated on the template.

9. Fold the boat together at the front and clamp with clothespins or paper clips while the glue dries.  Alternatively – you can skip the glue, bring the front sides together and stitch on the sewing machine close to the edge.

10. Fold the center back ( A on the template) and apply glue to the top.

11. Bend up tab B – covering the top of tab A and matching the top edges. Apply glue and bend up tab C covering the top of tab B and matching the top edges. Clamp and let dry. Alternatively – skip the glue and attach the three layers with a stitch and a button (step 16 below).

12. Use and xacto knife to poke an X at through the center of the mast support.

13. Snip iff the tip of your skewer and insert it into the hole – push it all the way to the bottom of the mast support. Make sure it is straight and add glue (lots) to the insertion point. Let it dry, mast support end up.

14. Cut out a sail and flag from paper. Poke a hole at the center of the top and bottom and insert the mast through the holes.

15. Cut a 36 inch length of embroidery thread or fine string (like baker’s twine) and tie a loop in the center.  Apply glue to the top 1/2 inch of the mast and wind the tails on to attach. This leaves most of the strings hanging down below.

16. Add a button at the back. Use a large needle to poke a hole through all the layers and ties on a button. Poke a hole through the tip of the bow as well and tie on one or two buttons.

17. Fold the flag in half, unfold it and apply glue stick. Fold it over the mast. Press the sides together and if you like trim and curl the ends.

18. Place the mast support into the boat. You can glue it in place or use the strings to attach hold it in place (see below).

19. Hold (or glue) the mast support in the boat and wind the strings around the buttons.  To add flags fold a 1 inch strip of paper in half the long way and cut into flags, open the flag, apply glue stick and fold over the strings.

I hope you make lots of paper boats! And for variety you can mess around with the sail configurations, scale and the edges of the boat template. If you make boats I’d love to see – please use #annwoodpattern on instagram or email a photo to me at info at ann wood handmade dot com.

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17 comments.

Thanks so much, Ann. I was recently wondering what new thing I could make with my paper, stamps and watercolors.

So exciting to share with my grandchildren, thank you!

This is lovely – thank you for sharing.

I can’t wait to make these! I made a big fleet of the paper boat ornaments last Christmas as gifts. I’ve been wanting to make boats to keep. This is it! Thank you so much!

This is a wonderful project! Thank you so much for sharing. Love your blog, I always take time to read through, “and smell the roses”.

Love them! What is the little connector you have used to connect them to the string that is holding them up to the ceiling? Thank you as always……

Thanks Gail! I put a little button on the end of each string so I could move the boats around easily when I was arranging them. Just slip the loop at the top of the boat over the button to hang.

You let our imaginations set sail upon a sea of dreams. A perfect ship for my little spool and button dolls to sail away. Thank you!

I am quite sure that I will be making some little boats in the near future!

What a lovely place to create, that library and cabin and the scenery look so peaceful and inspiring.

For some reason I have never commented before, not sure what that is as I have enjoyed your blog a lot, and I think I have made about twenty of your little tiny rag dolls now! The first three made just after you first published the pattern, the rest I’ve made this year. Just made the jacket last night and my newest one ‘Clipper’ loves it.

Thank you for your generosity in sharing these marvellous patterns.

I so ♥ this, and the fact that you are still blogging & making fun tutorials Ann! So many bloggers have stopped and I miss them all!

I recently printed the pattern for the needle case and will make myself one soon, with fabric inherited from my grandmother.

This post got me started on a most enjoyable series of paper mache boats using your “Dear Little Boats” pattern – thank you for being so generous with your creativity.

Dear Ann, How generous of you to share such detailed instructions for free! I haven’t had the courage yet to make a ship, but I am much inspired. Thank you for the lovely world, mood, spirit, and community you have created with this faithful, long-running blog. It is balm and a well of inspiration for creative, like-minded souls. Blessings, Hollyann

So so elegant simple and beutifull

I am finishing up my little wire bed for mouse. I am having so much fun! You’d think I was a little girl or teenager, and not a 73 year young women. Great to be able to do whatever you want to do.

[…] Quote from the source: … […]

I have made these mini boats and people love them. The instructions are clear and easy to follow and the result is precious.

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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 a Paper Boat

We get tons of queries about how to make a paper boat. So this blog post is dedicated to teaching you how to make a boat out of paper. Following our simple step-by-step guide, you will have a floating paper boat in a flash.

In folding a paper boat you will make a step in Origami technique ; a creative and innovative world of paper formatting. Origami is the Japanese name for the art of paper folding, and it has now become a beloved art form for people around the world. Origami has a history; the first use of the word “Origami” in Japan was not for our familiar recreational paper folding, but certificates. In Japan, there is an expression, Origami Tsuki , meaning “certified” or “guaranteed”.

The phrase stems from an ancient custom of folding certain special documents – such as diplomas for Tea Ceremony masters , or masters of swordsmanship – in such a way as to prevent unauthorized copies from being made. However, nowadays origami represents a creative way of spending time and a hobby for both adults and children.

How to Make a Paper Boat Step by Step

• Start from a rectangle. Fold in half.

• Fold in half again and unfold.

• Fold to the center.

• Fold the overlapping strip upwards.

• Fold corners backwards. Turn over.

• Fold strip upwards.

• Fold triangle upwards. Repeat behind.

• Open (like in the steps 7 and 8).

• Take upper corners and stretch out.

• Your boat is finished.

Now that we’ve taught how to make a paper boat, you’re ready to charter a yacht and enjoy some true sailing on a real boat. We hope you found these instructions useful. We would love to see your own made paper boats in the comments.

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Easy Sailing

If you haven’t noticed, we have been working with a bit of a nautical theme recently. Our nautical wrapping paper  and nautical gift tags are great for pretty summer gift-giving. And the You Are My Anchor card can be used for any occasion to show appreciation for your loved ones. We particularly love the beachy nautical theme for summer celebrations! Our under the sea photo props are perfect for creating a nautical themed summer party, and this paper boat project can easily be incorporated into your party decor.

In our tutorial below, you will see how simple it is to assemble this boat—making it a great craft project for kids! They can make their own paper boat to play with, help you set the table with it (see pictures below for inspiration), or use it in another craft project.

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To make a paper boat set, begin by downloading the template below. Download the SVG version if you will be using a cutting machine, or use the PDF version if you are cutting by hand. If you are using the PDF version, you can print the template directly onto the paper you will be using.

We made our paper boats with an assortment of pretty metallic text weight papers. You can use any color scheme that you would like for these boats, but we decided to create these boats to match our 1970s retro sailboat gift wrap . I’ve added links for each of the papers below in the materials list. If you are using this paper boat project to incorporate into a nautical or beach themed party, I would suggest using a color scheme that matches your specific event decor.

Our paper boats can be used as cute party favors that you can fill with candies, or to decorate a table setting. Scatter them around the table, or write names on the boats to use as adorable place cards! You can even create your own paper boat garland to hang around your party by attaching the boats to a pretty ribbon or piece of colored baker’s twine. I’m thinking these boats would make for a super cute baby mobile…there are so many possibilities!

This content uses links from which we may earn a commission.  Disclosure .

How to Make a Paper Boat

• Gather your craft tools and materials. Then download the template above.
• Cut and score your paper according to the template, using your scissors or a cutting machine.
• Fold along score lines. Clip slits along the tabs to allow for a curve.
• Glue small tabs and attach to the side. Then, glue slit tabs to the front of the boat.

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For instant access to our templates and tutorials, take a look at our membership options . Always feel free to write in with project suggestions to [email protected]! Until next time ~ Lia

 Tools

• Craft Scissors or Cricut Explore Air 2
• Low-Temp Hot Glue Gun
• Needle-Nose Pliers/Wire Cutters

 Materials

• Text Weight Paper – Poptone Berrylicious , Stardream Metallic Sapphire , Stardream Metallic Crystal ,  Paper Source Curry , and Poptone Orange Fizz
• Wood Skewer

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15 Comments

Hi Lía! How are u? Im from Argentina and i love everything you do. I have a question for you please: i have the scan cut from Brother; today i tried to print the boat with the sgv file and everything was ok but in the part where im supposed to fold the paper, the print cut the Paper so i have to glue all the parts. I think i have done something wrong because the instructions shows that the botton part or the boat is one piece and instead i have several parts. Hope you undestand me and help me 🙂. Thank you very much Flavia

We are not familiar with the Brother cutting machine, the lines that indicate fold lines should be scored by your machine. You will need to manually select these lines to score them. Please contact Brother customer care for any help regarding your machine.

I BOUGHT YOUR BOOK,BUT CAN’T FIND ON YOUR SITE WHERE TO TYPE IN THE CODE FOR THE FREE PROJECT DOWNLOADS.

Hello! Page 12 lists the URL and secret code.

How adorable the little boats are, want to make lots of them. Did get few cut on my Cricut. Want to get more colors of metallic papers when we return from vacation, love how metallic papers give any item such rich look. Have so much want to do when we get back. The boats I did cut out on Cricut used some metallic papers gotten at Walmart, not much variety of colors but can do lighter boats, really pretty, look pearlescent. Have you looked into new Gold Cricut? Saw ad online can pay $50.00 to trade machines. Will there be your projects on gold machine? Haven’t used projects that came with Cricut Air, are those still in machine or have they expired? Am always so careful, concerned will mess up machine. Being digitally compromised tends to cause me to be extra cautious. Your site inspires me to be creative even when other part of life dulls creativity. There will be celebration of life for grandson who died in June 8th. Celebration will be on July 8th. Hoping we’ll be able to attend. Have great week all.

Thanks so much, I’m glad you love the boats! The Gold Cricut is beautiful, isn’t it? My projects won’t be available with that bundle. I’m not sure about the projects that came with your machine, but you can contact Cricut’s customer service to be sure. We’ll be thinking of you as you celebrate your grandson’s life!

I have been searching everywhere for a 3D paper boat! I’m having a nautical theme for my wedding and since it’s river nautical and not ocean, I didn’t want whales, starfish, seahorses, etc. This will be great for the reception. I’m going to fill them with goldfish crackers!

Thank you so much!

Oh that’s great, I’m so glad this will work for your wedding!

Ooooh! Thank you! I’ve been trying to make a 3d ocean view mobile for my grandson. It is not easy finding 3d files, and I’ve had to try to make my own. This boat is perfect!

Oh, how great! I’m so glad the boat will work for you 🙂

Thank you Lia you are such an inspiration to my craftie side. I really love all your projects. I find pleasure on opening my email and see your gift to me everyday. Many blessings.

Thank you Rhoda, that means so much to me! 🙂

Would appericate more written instruction, plus a complete material list. For example, what is the size of dowel used, or was it even a dowel? Options are nice, but spefics are better:)

Oops! The photo tutorial was accidentally missing from the post this morning, but it’s there now with plenty of details 🙂

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