How to Make a Church Fan out of Paper

A room full of church members that doesn't have air conditioning can get a little hot. A fan can come in handy.

Many children and adults all over the country have made a fan in church. Fans are especially popular in smaller country churches that might not have air conditioning. Using paper to make a fan is also a great way to keep a smaller child busy during quiet moments, such as prayers. Fan-making is a simple process that can be done by anyone who can fold paper.

Things You'll Need

• Paper

Instructions

1. Bring a piece of printer paper or notebook paper to church with you, or use the church program that is typically handed out as you come in the door.

2. Lay the paper flat in your lap on top of a song book, if one is nearby. The hard surface will make it easier to fold and crease the paper. Lay the paper so one of its long sides is next to you, with its short sides on your left and right.

3. Fold the edge of the side that is closest to you in about 1/2 inch. Press the seam down to make a good crease.

4. Flip the paper over so that the folded end is now away from you and on the bottom.

5. Take hold of the folded end and fold it in toward the center of the paper for another 1/2 inch. Now the first fold is visible again on top. Press down the second fold to crease it.

6. Flip the paper over again so that the fold is now next to you and on the bottom. Take hold of the folded end and fold it on top and toward the center for another 1/2 inch. Press down to crease. Continue the pattern of folding until you have folded the entire length of the paper.

7. Keep the paper folded up and fold one end of the long narrow folded up paper in on itself for about 1/2 inch. Then fold it again so that it folds over itself. This will close one end of the folded paper so that it cannot open up.

8. Gently pull on the end of the folded paper that is still loose to open it up. As you pull it apart you will see all the creases of the folds. The other end will stay closed because you folded it. Hold onto the folded end and fan yourself with the open end.

References

• Origami Tube: Fan