The Most Basic Origami Bird You Can Make
Learn how to fold a simple origami bird resembling a swallow using basic folds like the shawl fold and water bomb fold. Perfect for beginners!
Get a video at the bottom of the post showing all the folds.
Origami is a beautiful art form that brings paper to life with just a few folds. In this tutorial, we’ll create a simple yet graceful origami bird, inspired by a swallow.
This design uses simple folds like the shawl fold and water bomb fold, making it perfect for beginners and a delightful project for anyone who enjoys the meditative process of paper folding.
Birds have a deep-rooted significance in Japanese culture, often symbolizing freedom, hope, and the connection between heaven and earth.
In traditional Japanese art and poetry, birds are frequently depicted as messengers of the gods or as symbols of human emotions and spiritual aspirations. The swallow, in particular, is a symbol of good fortune, loyalty, and the arrival of spring.
It is believed that swallows bring prosperity and happiness to homes they nest in, making them a cherished symbol of harmony and renewal.
In origami, birds are among the most beloved subjects, with the crane being the most iconic, symbolizing peace and longevity. We absolutely love folding birds around here!
How to Fold a Paper Bird
Begin with a 15 cm (6″) square piece of paper (or size of your choice), colored on one both sides. The size of the square will determine the size of the finished bird. Mine is 75 cm (6″) wide and 75 mm (3″) tall from beak to tail.
Get our basic fold guides here.
Make the Base Folds
Place your paper on your surface with the points at the top and bottom. Fold in half to make a triangle, then rotate a half turn and fold in half again (two shawl folds).
Open the paper up and lay the square on your surface with the creases open towards you. Fold this rectangle in half upwards, and smooth the crease in the middle.
Then unfold the paper, turn, and fold again (two book folds).
Fold in Both Sides to Make the Body
Unfold the paper. You will use these folds to create a triangle.
Push both sides in as shown and then smooth on the folds to create a triangle (water bomb fold).
Create the Wings
Take the right flap and fold it over to the left (not quite to the center) as shown. Smooth, and then repeat with the left flap over the right.
Create the Head and Beak
Turn the paper so the tip is facing down. Fold the flap up, then fold it back to make the beak and head.
Turn over and there is your bird!
Are you ready for the video? Learn how to make the swallow below! Then let me know what you think in the comments.
Enjoyed this post? Check out these other ideas:
Boat • Cat • Crane • Cube • Frog • Heart • Lotus Flower • Star • Tulip
