Introduction
Today, you will learn how to make an easy origami swallow. A swallow is a small bird with long wings and a forked tail. It looks like it is always flying in the sky!
This origami bird is fun to make and looks very cute. When you finish, you can hang it up or pretend it is flying around your room. Let’s get started!
※ You will also use scissors for one small step, so please ask an adult to help if needed.
Difficulty Level
Level 2 (Easy)
How long does it take?
7 to 9 minutes
Materials
- 1 square paper (15 x 15 cm is best)
- A flat surface to work on
- A pair of scissors
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place your paper on the table like a diamond shape.
2. Fold the paper in half from bottom to top.
3. Fold the triangle in half again.
4. Put your finger in the top triangle, open it up, and flatten it.
5. Do the same on the other side.
6. Make three crease lines like in the picture.
7. Fold up the top layer to the crease to make a diamond shape.
8. Do the same on the other side.
9. Fold the right side to the center.
10. Fold the left side to the center.
11. Do the same on the other side.
12. Slide it over and change the side.
13. Make an inside reverse fold at both top corners to create wings.
(Not sure how? Click here to see how to make an Inside-reverse fold!)
14. Fold the bottom corner up.
15. Fold the corner from Step 14 down.
16. Fold the corner from Step 15 up.
17. Turn it over.
18. Cut the bottom corner with scissors and cross the parts.
Why This Origami is Good for Kids
- Kids learn about symmetry and how a square transforms into triangles and then a bird!
- Because this swallow can “hook” onto things, it’s perfect for storytelling. Is it building a nest on your bookshelf?
- Using scissors for that one special step feels like “expert” work, giving children a great sense of achievement.
Tips for Success
- Try to keep both sides even when folding the wings
- You only get one cut, so take a deep breath and aim for the center line!
Common Mistakes
Q: The head and beak don’t look right.
A: Try folding it gently at first. Once it looks good, press down hard to make a sharp line!
Fun Ideas to Try
- Use different colors to make a flock of swallows
- Hang your swallow with string so it looks like it is flying
- Make a sky scene with clouds and multiple birds
- Try to balance the swallow’s chest on your fingertip
Fun Fact
Swallows are “migratory birds.” They travel thousands of kilometers!
In Japan, swallows are special guests! We call them “Tsubame.” There is a famous saying: “Swallows bring happiness to the house where they build their nests.” By folding this bird, you might be bringing a little bit of luck into your room!
Conclusion
Great job! You made an easy origami swallow. This bird is simple, cute, and fun to play with. The more you practice, the better your origami will look.
Keep folding and try making more birds or animals. Origami is a wonderful way to be creative and have fun!
Try More Origami
Want to make more cute bird friends? Try these next!
