Easy Christmas Origami for Kids (4 Simple Paper Crafts)

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Paper folding is a wonderful holiday activity: it’s cheap, quiet, and it builds patience, focus and hand-eye coordination (sneaky math, too!). Here are four easy Christmas paper crafts for kids, from a simple folded tree to classic paper snowflakes. Use them to decorate the tree, top a present or build a little holiday scene.

Paper tips

• Use square paper with straight, even edges; crooked paper won’t fold neatly.
• Origami paper is nice, but copy paper, wrapping paper and magazine pages all work.
• Decorate copy paper with markers or stamps before folding.

1. Easy folded Christmas tree

1. Start with a square of green paper. Fold it in half diagonally to make a triangle, then unfold.
2. Fold the two side corners in to meet the center crease, like a paper airplane nose.
3. Fold the bottom point up about 1 inch to make a trunk, then flip it over.
4. Make small accordion pleats across the tree if you like, and add a paper star on top.

2. Paper snowflakes

1. Fold a square of white paper in half diagonally, then in half again, then fold the triangle into thirds like a cone.
2. Trim the uneven top straight across.
3. Cut small triangles, curves and notches along the folded edges. Don’t cut all the way across.
4. Unfold carefully and flatten under a book.

3. Accordion fan ornament

1. Accordion-fold a rectangle of paper in narrow pleats, about 1/2 inch wide.
2. Fold the strip in half and glue the two inside edges together to make a circle fan.
3. Glue a ribbon loop at the top.

4. Folded paper star garland

1. Cut 1-inch strips of paper and fold them into simple woven stars, or cut stars from folded paper.
2. Punch a hole in each and string them on twine.

Ways to use your paper crafts

• Hang them on the Christmas tree
• Tape snowflakes to windows
• Glue a tree or star onto a wrapped gift
• Make a holiday diorama in a shoebox

FAQ

What age can start origami?

Around 5 or 6 with simple folds; younger kids love paper snowflakes with safety scissors.

What paper is best?

Thin, crisp square paper. Origami paper is easiest.

Does origami count as learning?

Yes! It teaches geometry, following directions and fine motor skills.

You might also like:

• Upcycled Ornament Crafts
• 6 Easy Snowman Crafts
• Fluffy Snowman Craft