How to Make a 3D Paper Cube

This 3D paper cube is a really easy beginning origami project. Origami is a Japanese word that means folding paper (ori means fold, while gami means paper). When the project is finished, you will have a cube with five solid sides and one side with a hole in it. The cubes make dispensers for small rolls of stamps or stickers or can be used simply for decoration. If you do not have origami paper for this project, you can find packs of it at most craft stores.

Things You'll Need

• 1 sheet of square origami paper

Instructions

1. Fold the paper diagonally in both directions.

2. Pinch the area between the two diagonals on both sides and gently push those sections into the middle of the model. You should have a small triangle shape.

3. Fold the top layer of the bottom points on the triangle up to meet the top point of the triangle. Repeat this on the opposite side of the model, making a diamond shape.

4. Fold the top layer of the corners of the diamond from the right and left inward to meet with the fold line down the middle of the model.

5. Repeat this on the opposite side of the model, making a hexagon shape.

6. The top of the hexagon should have small flaps of paper. The folded triangles on either side will create an empty pocket if you pinch them slightly. Fold the flaps on the top down and insert them into these pockets.

7. Repeat this on the opposite side.

8. Open the hexagon along the sides to reveal the four edges of the cube.

9. One side of the model should have a small hole, while the other side is closed. While gently holding the edges, blow air into the hole until the model puffs out.

10. Pinch the edges on the top and bottom of the cube to create sharp corners and lines.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not have origami paper, any rectangular sheet of paper will work almost as well. Fold one corner down until it meets the opposite edge of the paper and crease. Then cut off the excess paper and you'll have a perfect square to work with. Make every fold sharp and crisp. Run a fingernail over the edge or use a folding tool that can be found in many craft stores.

References

• Video Instructions to Making a 3D Cube