How to Make 3D Origami Paper Hearts

The ancient art of paper folding.

Origami, the ancient art of paper folding, is practiced around the world. Origami artists transform a flat piece of paper, through a series of folds, into a three-dimensional flower, animal, box or some other recognizable object. Some academics have suggested the use of origami to invoke mathematical thinking in students, especially through the transmission of origami instructions from one student to another. By allowing students to teach one another origami techniques a teacher can encourage mathematical discourse with increased attention on geometry concepts and spacial relations.

Things You'll Need

• Square sheet of origami paper
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Lay the origami paper on a flat working surface. Fold the square in half diagonally creasing the fold well. Unfold the paper and cut along the crease. Set one triangle aside, each triangle can be used to make a separate heart.

2. Lay the triangle on the working surface with the long side facing toward you. Fold the right corner over to the left corner, creasing the fold well and opening the triangle up again.

3. Fold the top point down 2/3 of the way to the bottom edge. Crease the fold well.

4. Fold the right point up so the edge lines up with the center crease. Repeat with the left point to create a diamond shape.

5. Flip over the diamond. Fold the top right flap down at a 45-degree angle so it lies flush with the folded edge. Repeat with the top left flap. Crease both folds well.

6. Round off the pointed edges by making small folds at each corner. Turn the paper back over and your heart is complete.

References

• Purchase College: Teaching Mathematical Thinking Through Origami
• Activity Village: Origami Heart

Resources

• Origami Instructions: Easy Origami Heart
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: Endangered Species Origami