Short answer: Five easy origami Christmas ornaments are the paper crane, the simple star, the folded heart, the mini gift box and a short crane garland. Fold them from 6x6 inch paper while you learn, then switch to 3x3 inch paper for tree-size ornaments. Gold foil, red and patterned papers look best under tree lights.
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What paper is best for origami ornaments?
Use paper that holds a sharp crease. Foil paper shines but shows every mistake, so practice first on plain paper. 6x6 inch paper makes large ornaments and is easier to fold; 3x3 inch paper makes small, delicate ones. Double-sided paper means no white shows on the back.
1. The paper crane ornament
The crane is the classic choice, and in Japan it stands for long life and good fortune, a lovely wish to hang on the tree. Fold it from gold or red paper, thread a loop of thin ribbon through the top of the back with a needle, and tie a knot. Our step-by-step crane tutorial walks you through every fold.
2. A simple star
Fold five identical pentagon units, or the even simpler version from five folded strips, and tuck them together. Hang one star at the top of a small tree or make several in different sizes for a window.
3. A folded heart
The origami heart takes about ten folds and looks lovely in red. Punch a tiny hole at the top or glue a ribbon loop on the back. Write a name on the back to use it as a gift tag later.
4. Mini gift boxes
A small origami box from 3x3 inch paper becomes an ornament when you tie a cross of ribbon around it. Put a tiny note or wrapped chocolate inside for an advent surprise. Our origami gift box tutorial shows how.
5. A short crane garland
String eight to ten cranes on fishing line with a bead between each, then drape the strand across branches. Alternate red, gold and white for a festive look. Our guide on how to string paper cranes covers the details.
How do you make paper ornaments last?
Keep ornaments away from candles and heat. To store them, layer them in a box with tissue paper so the points stay sharp. A light coat of clear matte spray makes cranes and stars stiffer and more durable.
Paper and ready-made ornaments
Pick up 6x6 inch origami paper for learning and 3x3 inch origami paper for tree-size ornaments, including gold foil and rose patterns. No time to fold? Hang hand-folded cranes or a ready-made crane garland on the tree.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest origami Christmas ornament?
The folded heart and the mini gift box are among the easiest. The paper crane takes a little more practice but is the classic origami ornament.
What size paper should I use for origami ornaments?
Use 6x6 inch paper while learning and for large ornaments, and 3x3 inch paper for small ornaments that suit a standard tree.
How do you hang an origami crane on a Christmas tree?
Thread a loop of thin ribbon or fishing line through the top of the crane's back with a needle and tie a knot, then hang the loop on a branch.
How do I make paper ornaments last longer?
Keep them away from heat and candles, store them in a box with tissue paper, and add a light coat of clear matte spray for extra stiffness.