Instructions for simple origami swan

This is written so parents can read the instructions while kids fold...
but don't read aloud! Just use the written instructions to give some pointers if necessary. Pictures are sometimes enough by themselves.

Origami for Beginners: The Swan

finished shape

Step 1. Make a KITE BASE

. FOLD, then UNFOLD

TIPS:
Look at the picture; hold your paper exactly the same way.

Always look for the dashed line...it shows where the next fold happens.
Then look at the arrows...they show what movement will happen.
An arrow head at BOTH ends means FOLD and then UNFOLD.

Think about this for a minute. You are learning a new SYMBOL LANGUAGE!

Step 2. Finishing the Kite Base

Fold lower edges to CENTER crease.

TIPS:
Check the dashed lines. Where do you think they will be on your paper?
What do the arrows hint at?

Look at the NEXT picture to see what you are aiming for...

Step 3. Congratulations! This is the KITE BASE.

TIPS:

Your paper should look like this. Notice how the illustration tries to tell you that the back of the paper (which is gray) now shows. If you folded your paper really well you won't have a gap between the edges in the middle. DON"T OVERLAP those edges!!!! (That sometimes will wreck your work by locking stuff together so it rips!)
The pictures sometimes show a gap to make it easier to see what is happening

<<<This goofy little loopy arrow means something.
Look at the next picture to see if that helps you guess...

Step 4.

See if you understand the symbols. Fold your paper then go to the next page and see if it matches the picture!.

TIPS:

Did you guess the symbol meant TURN THE PAPER OVER?

What clues should you be looking at now?
...the dashed lines.....the arrows....

Click on the swan to turn the page.. you are almost done!

This page designed and maintained by Emma Craib:
suggestions and comments
welcome.