How to Make Paper Swans

Swans are beautiful, majestic birds that are easy to make from folded paper. These simple origami swans can stand up by themselves, making them perfect for a display of paper animals. You can make a paper swan from a regular sheet of plain, white letter-size paper such as printer or copy paper. You can also vary the size of paper you use to make swans of different sizes. Opt to make a whole family of swans. Although most real swans are white or black, you can also make them in colors if you prefer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sheet of Paper
• Flat Surface
• Scissors
• Markers

1. Place the paper on the table with the short edge toward you. Fold the bottom edge of the paper over diagonally to meet the side.

2. Cut off the strip of excess paper above the folded part. You can discard this piece or use it for another project. If you are using paper that is already square, you can skip this step.

3. Unfold the paper to make a square. Turn the paper so the pointed end is toward you. It will look like a diamond.

4. Fold both sides of the diamond toward the middle. The edges should line up with the center crease. Crease each fold, then turn the paper over.

5. Fold both sides of the paper toward the middle again. The edges should line up at the center. Crease the paper firmly.

6. Fold the bottom point of the paper up. It should stick up about one inch above the top of the paper. This creates the swan’s neck.

7. Fold the pointed end of the paper down to make the swan’s head.

8. Draw an eye on each side of the swan’s head. Color the swan’s beak with markers. Draw feathers or wings on the sides of the swan’s body.

9. Lift the swan’s neck upward gently. Fluff out the beak. Spread the sides of the paper swan’s body slightly so that it can stay up.

Tips & Warnings

• You may want to make a paper pond for the paper swans by cutting a piece of blue paper into an oval shape. Set them on top of it.
• Don't limit yourself. If you want an origami swan that has wings, you may want to make a paper crane instead.

Resources

• How to Fold Paper Swans.