simple origami sailboat

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How to Fold an Origami Sail Boat

Last Updated: April 25, 2024

This article was co-authored by Robert Homayoon . Robert Homayoon is an Origami Expert known for his engaging YouTube videos and accessible instructions. He has been teaching origami on YouTube since 2009. His channel has a following of over 676,000 subscribers, and his videos have garnered over 211 million views. Robert uses his channel to highlight his passion for teaching people origami, crafts, and how to solve puzzles. He graduated from SUNY Albany in 2007 and earned his D.M.D degree from Temple University Dental School in 2013. This article has been viewed 65,489 times.

Origami is fun, and can be a boredom buster. Learn how to make a sailboat with origami.

Expert Q&A

• You can also use wax paper so it can float on water, or other liquids. Normal paper will get soggy. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Use colored paper to make it look creative. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Don't get discouraged if you mess up the first time. Nobody is perfect! Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

• Don't get paper cuts! Thanks Helpful 13 Not Helpful 3
• Be careful while using scissors. Thanks Helpful 12 Not Helpful 4
• Handle everything with care-or have an elder help you. Thanks Helpful 11 Not Helpful 5

Things You'll Need

• 8 1/2 by 11 sheet copy paper
• Wax paper (optional)
• Scissors (for wax paper if needed)

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How to make a Origami

How to Make Easy Origami

Origami Way Instructions

Sail Boat Origami Step by Step

Unleash Your Creativity: Learn How to Make an Easy Origami Sailboat in Minutes!

Introduction:.

Are you ready to embark on a creative journey and set sail into the world of origami? If you’ve ever wondered how to make an easy origami sailboat, you’re in for a treat! This step-by-step guide will not only help you craft a charming origami sailboat but also ignite your passion for the ancient art of paper folding. Get ready to sail smoothly through the folds and let your imagination sail away!

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you dive into the world of origami, make sure you have all the materials you need. Grab a square piece of paper – any color or pattern will do! The beauty of origami lies in its simplicity, so don’t worry about fancy supplies. A plain sheet of paper is your blank canvas!

Step 2: Set the Stage

Find a quiet and comfortable workspace where you can let your creativity flow. Clear any distractions and prepare to immerse yourself in the meditative art of origami. This is your time to shine, so make the most of it!

Step 3: Begin the Fold

Take your square piece of paper and follow these straightforward steps:.

a. Fold the paper diagonally, creating a triangle. b. Unfold the triangle and repeat the process with the opposite corners. c. The result should be an “X” shape formed by the creases.

Step 4: Sail Away with Folds

Now, let’s shape our origami sailboat:.

a. Bring two adjacent corners of the square to the center, creating a diamond shape. b. Fold the bottom corner of the diamond up to the top, forming a smaller triangle. c. Repeat the process on the backside, ensuring symmetry.

Step 5: Craft Your Sail

Get ready to make your sail:.

a. Take the top layer of the triangle and fold it downward, leaving a small gap at the base. b. Repeat on the backside to create a double-layered sail.

Step 6: Final Touches

Smooth out any creases, refine the folds, and watch your easy origami sailboat come to life! Adjust the sail angle to add a dynamic touch to your creation.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You’ve just crafted a delightful origami sailboat that’s ready to set sail on your desk, bookshelf, or wherever your creativity takes it. Now that you’ve mastered the art of making an easy origami sailboat, challenge yourself to experiment with different paper sizes and colors. Share your creations with friends and family, and inspire them to join you on this artistic voyage.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some paper and start folding your way to a fleet of origami sailboats. Let your imagination sail freely, and discover the joy of creating something beautiful with just a simple sheet of paper!

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Origami Instructions – Learn How To Make Origami

How To Fold A Traditional Origami Boat

Page 1 of 3.

Traditional Origami Boat

Level: Easy

Copyright: Traditional ?

Time Needed: Approx. 5 Minutes

Tools: None

Supplies: 1 Sheet of Square Paper

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Learn how to fold probably the most famous and well known origami boat. This traditional origami sail boat actually floats so makes a great origami model to teach kids .

You can make these origami boats out of newspaper and other rectangular sized paper. You will probably notice it looks like a hat near the end. This traditional origami boat is actually just a few steps more that the origami hat model ( tutorial here ).

You will need rectangular paper for this origami boat. Either A4, US letter paper or trim from a square.

Traditional Origami Boat Instructions

Scroll down to follow the photo tutorial for the Traditional Origami Boat .

Made this origami? Leave a comment & submit your photo on the last page here .

Step 1: This is the front of our paper, the inner triangle of the boat will be this colour.

Step 2: This is the back of the paper, the lower rim of the boat will end up this colour.

Step 3: Fold the top edge down to the bottom edge.

Step 4: Next bring the right corner over to the left and make a small crease.

Step 5: Unfold the previous step.

Step 6: Bring the top left and top right corners down using the crease as a starting point.

Step 7: Flatten the paper so that you have this, both flaps aligned nicely.

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People Folding Paper

Origami Boat

November 1, 2023 by Origami Admin

Difficulty: Easy

Ahoy, aspiring paper crafters! Prepare to set sail on a creative journey as we delve into the delightful art of origami and embark on a nautical adventure with these instructions for making an origami boat.

Origami, a traditional Japanese art form, is a fascinating blend of simplicity and precision, where a single sheet of paper is transformed into intricate shapes through the magic of folding. In this guide, we’ll explore the joy of crafting an origami boat, a timeless symbol of exploration and adventure. Whether you’re new to origami or a seasoned paper-folding enthusiast, you’ll find this project both enjoyable and rewarding.

Origami boats are not just charming in their simplicity; they also carry a sense of wanderlust and curiosity. As you fold the paper and bring your boat to life, you’ll be reminded of the endless possibilities and journeys that await you.

These step-by-step instructions will provide you with a clear and easy-to-follow path to create your very own origami boat. Once completed, your miniature paper vessel can serve as a lovely decoration, a thoughtful gift, or a playful addition to your creative repertoire.

So, grab a square piece of paper, prepare to navigate the folds, and let’s sail away into the world of origami with the construction of a charming paper boat!

Not only does this origami boat look super cute, but it floats too! Why not have sailing races or see how much weight they can carry?

Step 1: Start with a rectangular piece of origami paper placed in portrait position. We’re using single sided paper which will result in a sail in a different colour to the hull.

Step 2: Fold the paper in half horizontally, bringing the top down to meet the bottom

Step 3: Fold the paper in half vertically, bringing the left side over to meet the right. Make sure you only crease the very top section of this fold!

Step 4: Unfold the paper

Step 5: Fold the two top coners down to meet in the centre

Step 6: Fold the top layer of paper upwards

Step 7: Turn the boat around

Step 8: Repeat step 6, folding the bottom layer of paper upwards

Step 9: Open up the inside of the boat

Step 10: As you widen the boat, ensure the ends fold underneath one another

This website has been created with the simple aim of bringing the joy and benefits of origami to more people.  We have tried to make it as user friendly as possible.  If you can’t find what you’re looking for, try searching below.

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Making an Easy Origami Boat

The Spruce Crafts / Chrissy Pk

• Total Time: 10 mins

In Japanese, the word origami means "the art of folding paper," with ori meaning "folding" and kami meaning "paper." In modern usage, origami is an inclusive term for all paper folding practices. The goal when practicing origami is to transform a flat square sheet of paper into a finished sculpture through folding and sculpting techniques.

Learn how to make the most well-known origami boat using this quick and easy step-by-step tutorial. The origami boat you'll make with these instructions can also float in water .

Watch Now: How to Make an Origami Boat

This origami boat is a great model to teach to kids. It's similar to the origami hat you make with newspaper or the origami crane many of us made as children. Also, origami can be a great math-related activity for kids, allowing them to create using geometry.

What You'll Need

• 1 Rectangular sheet of paper

Instructions

Make the first folds.

Start with your rectangular paper , orienting it vertically, with the long edges going up and down. Fold the bottom half up to the top. Fold the bottom right corner to the left corner and make a small pinch, just enough to crease the paper. Open it back up.

Create a Triangle Shape

Fold the left and right bottom corners up and to the middle using the crease as a guide. Flatten the folded pieces down. Rotate the paper. Fold one layer from the bottom up along the bottom of the front flaps.

A Boat Begins to Take Shape

Flip the paper over to the other side. Fold the bottom edge up in the same way. Unfold, and then fold the bottom right corner along the crease you made. Repeat on the bottom left flap.

Form the Bottom of the Boat

Re-fold the bottom edge back up. Open the bottom of the model. Look at the corners. Flatten and then insert the overlapping flap on the left underneath the right section.

Continue Folding

Fold one layer up to the top. Repeat on the back. Open the bottom of the model.

Finalize the Folds

Pull apart the left and right flaps. Flatten your paper sculpture in the shape of a boat. Open it slightly. The triangle in the middle resembles a sail .

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Traditional Origami Sailboat

Written by  Russell |  Beginner , Instructions , Models , Objects

“Better drowned than duffers if not duffers won’t drown.”

-Arthur Ransome, Author of Swallows and Amazons

An Easy Origami Sailboat

The Traditional Origami Sailboat is an elegant model that is simple to make.  This design is not 3D, so unlike the Sampan , I posted instructions for recently, it won’t float.  Some of you might recognise this model as the logo for OrigamiUSA.

Note: This post contains affiliate links.  Please see disclosure for more information.

Folding the Traditional Origami Sailboat

This is a simple origami model so it’s perfect for beginners.  Like most traditional origami, it can be folded out of just about any paper, although it looks best made from paper that is coloured differently on each side.  I have used Kami coloured on one side for the model pictured because I like the white sails against the coloured hull of the boat.

The traditional origami sailboat can be folded in less than five minutes.

Origami Sailboat Instructions

The origami sailboat is one of the models included in my new book, Origami Made Simple .  The book is designed for people that are new to origami so it includes written instructions along with the diagrams.  The 40 models in the book progress in difficulty with each chapter, starting at 10 steps or less, up to a maximum of 25 steps.

Get Origami Made Simple in the US here .

Get Origami Made Simple in the UK here .

More Origami Sailboats

Once you have mastered the traditional origami sailboat, you might like to try your hand at other similar models, like these:

• A Money Origami Sailboat that is folded out of a dollar bill.  Get the instructions here .
• A Business Card Origami Sailboat.  Get the instructions here .

Get Involved

I’d love to hear your views on this easy origami sailboat.  Feel free to let me know what you think in the comments below, or you find can me on Instagram  or  Twitter . Check out my  Pinterest  boards too!

Sign up for my origami newsletter here and get our free Origami eBook.

Disclosure:

This page contains affiliate links and I may receive some small commission for purchases made through the links on this page. This hasn’t affected my decision to recommend a product – I value my personal and professional reputation and would not endorse a product or supplier I did not believe in. There is no additional cost to you for purchasing through this page.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Origami Expressions is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

If you enjoyed this post, here are some more to check out:

Fold an Origami Union Jack

Siesta by neal elias, folding fantasy book review and giveaway.

About the Author

Russell has been folding origami since he was 8 years old and has recently written the book, Origami Made Simple. He is on the Council for the British Origami Society and a member of OrigamiUSA. When he is not folding, he enjoys photography and traveling.

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• Origami Sailboat

• Traditional model
• Difficulty :

Origami Sailboat instructions and tutorial

The sailboat is a very easy traditional model. It has only two folds, but the boat looks very realistic. If you use a sheet of paper with a different color on each side, the hull of the boat will be of one color, and the sail will be of the other color. The sailboat is an interesting model because it shows how to reverse a fold. It is a perfect model to play in the sand at the beach!

Origami sailboat video instructions

To make a sailboat in origami, please follow the instructions from this video on YouTube:

How to make an origami sailboat

Here are the step-by-step instructions to fold a sailboat (photo diagram and/or video).

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1. Start with a square sheet of paper. If possible use a paper with a different color on each side. The sail will be of the color you put below.

2. Fold along the diagonal.

3. Fold the bottom to create the hull of the boat. You can try different positions.

4. Unfold the last fold.

5. And fold it again on the other side.

6. Unfold the last fold.

7. Unfold the diagonal fold and invert the other fold at the front of the boat.

8. Flatten the fold so that the sail is between the two sides of the boat.

9. Your boat is ready to sail!

Do you like this sailboat? If you fold it, please send me pictures of your ship at [email protected] Thank you!

Your origami sailboat photos

If you fold this sailboat, please send me pictures of your paper sailboat so that I can show them here.

Origami sailboat in Portugal by Carla Nobre

Origami Sailboats and Angry Bird

Origami Sailboats

Send me a picture of your origami sailboat so that I can add it to the gallery. Thank you! :-)

Red sailboat

Playing at the beach!

Red sailboat in the harbour

A very fuzzy boat.

Sea of shells

Paper boat on the beach.

Two beautiful blue sailboats folded by Annette Bussmann.

What do you think of this sailboat?

Have you tried this this sailboat origami model? How did it turn out? Please tell me, and send me a picture of your model so that I can add it on this page!

If you like this sailboat and my other origami models, you can support me on Patreon . Thank you!

Origami is the art of folding paper to create animals, plants, objects and geometric forms.

Origami models with easy to follow step-by-step instructions in video and photos.

Diagrams to fold origami models can be difficult to interpret sometimes. For each model we show a photo of each step so that you can easily fold all models. Each origami model also has a video that shows how to fold it.

Subscribe to the Origami + YouTube channel to be notified when I publish new origami models and videos. If you like my original origami models and videos, please support me on Patreon . Thank you!

Join me on the Origami + Facebook page and follow @Origami_Plus on Twitter to talk about origami, share your origamis and suggest new models!

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How to Make an Origami Boat: Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking for a fun and easy craft to do with your kids or by yourself? Look no further than origami boats! With just a rectangular piece of paper, you can create a cute and functional boat that can sail on water or simply serve as a decorative piece. In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to make an origami boat using rectangular paper, with or without a sail.

Whether you’re an experienced origami artist or just starting out, this easy origami boat craft is perfect for all skill levels. So gather your paper and let’s get started on this fun and creative project!

Origami Boat Craft Tutorial for Kids and Adults

• A rectangular sheet of craft paper
• Glue (optional).
• Scissors (optional).
• Colorful craft paper and card stock paper (for the flag). 

Origami Boat Craft Step By Step with Picture Instructions:

Step 1: prepare the rectangular origami craft paper:.

For this origami boat craft, you need rectangular origami craft paper. If your paper has a colored side, make sure it is facing down.

Fold the paper in half horizontally to create a crease in the missile part of the paper.

Fold the paper in half vertically to create another crease in the middle and open the fold. 

Bring the right edge of the paper towards the center crease line, folding it diagonally to create a triangle shape on one corner. Press it down to crease the fold. 

Step 5: Make The Main Creases For The Origami Boat:

Repeat the same process for the other edge of the paper on the right-hand side, folding it diagonally to create another triangle shape. Crease the fold again. 

Fold the bottom edge of the paper up along the bottom of the triangular folds. 

Flip it over to the other side. 

Repeat the process again and fold the bottom edge along the edge on the other side. 

Open the gap in the middle of the folded triangular-shaped origami pattern. 

Step 10: Getting The Origami Piece Ready For Final Step:

Bring the top corners of the paper down towards the center of the paper, folding them along the diagonal creases on two sides. This will create a diamond shape. 

Fold the top layer of the bottom point of the paper up along the top edge of the paper to create a triangle shape.

Flip it over. Repeat the process again. it will create a triangle shape. 

Step 15: Finish Making The Boat:

Similar to step 9 open the gap in the middle. 

Fold it along the two creases on to sides to create a diamond shape. 

Gently pull the two sides of the boat apart to create a small opening.

Pinch the bottom corners of the boat and pull them down slightly to make the boat more stable.

To make the flags cut out triangular colorful craft paper and a thin strip from cardstock paper.

Congratulations, you’ve successfully completed your origami boat craft! With just a few simple folds, you’ve transformed a square piece of paper into a beautiful and functional boat. Whether you’re using it to sail on water or simply as a decorative piece, your origami boat is sure to be a source of pride and joy. We hope you enjoyed this step-by-step tutorial and that you continue to explore the world of origami and other creative hobbies. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, and keep on folding!

Overall, origami is a fun and engaging craft that can offer a range of benefits for both your physical and mental well-being.

Origami craft can be incredibly fun for a number of reasons. Here are a few:

• Creativity: Origami is a form of creative expression that allows you to explore your imagination and bring your ideas to life in a tangible way. With just a piece of paper and your own two hands, you can create a wide range of designs, from simple shapes to complex animals and objects.
• Relaxation: Folding paper can be a calming and meditative activity that helps to relieve stress and anxiety. Many people find origami to be a therapeutic hobby that helps them unwind after a long day or during a difficult time.
• Accessibility: Anyone can try origami, regardless of their age, skill level, or budget. All you need is a piece of paper and some basic folding techniques to get started, and you can practice and improve your skills over time.
• Social connection: Origami can also be a social activity that brings people together. You can attend workshops, join online communities, or share your creations with others, creating a sense of camaraderie and connection around this shared passion.

If you enjoyed this origami boat tutorial you might also like this origami star step-by-step tutorial from us.

Here is another kind of Origami Sailor Boat you can make.

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Origami Sailboat

2 types of origami boat to try.

Here we have 2 different boats, depending on what you had in mind! If you'd like to make a flat sailboat that is super easy and looks great, try Boat 1, and if you'd prefer to make a boat that actually floats on water, then give Boat #2 a go!

#1 - Easy Sailboats

Click Here For Instructions To Make The Origami Sailboat

This easy origami sailboat is great for kids - and you can make two from the one square of paper. Use paper that is different colours on each side for a really nice effect.

#2 - Make A Boat That Floats

Click Here For Instructions To Make A Boat That Floats

If you're looking for more of a challenge, try this origami boat - its a great traditional design that will actually float for you!

There are dozens and dozens of fantastic origami diagrams here on Origami-Fun. Click below to go to the main list of all diagrams... Some of the models have videos to help you too!

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Simple step-by-step origami boat tutorial

• Post author By Jenni
• Post date June 10, 2022
• 2 Comments on Simple step-by-step origami boat tutorial

This simple origami boat is a fun model to fold. Use a fairly thin square of paper, and remember to fold neatly and crease firmly after each step.

• Start with your paper square as shown above. If you don’t have a creasing tool, you can use the back of your thumb nail to help crease. We’ll be folding it horizontally then vertically to start with, creating a grid of quarters. Ready?

• Fold in half from side to side, making sure the edges line up; crease and unfold.
• Do the same thing, this time folding the other way, to create the horizontal fold; crease and open up fully.
• You should be left with folds dissecting the paper into neat quarters.
• Turning the paper 90 degrees, fold the bottom point under and up to meet the top point.
• The next picture shows how the creases sit.
• Take the bottom point and fold it up to meet the centre.
• Do the same with the top point, so they meet in the middle.
• Next, fold the left point into the centre…
• …then fold this point back, but instead of folding from the original crease, fold a little way in from that.

• The next step can be a bit fiddly, but the previous folds will help you out! Pick the model up and press gently in the centre; the middle should go down and the outside edges should come up!
• Gently press the bottom together to encourage the creases – you’re after a big triangle at the bottom and 2 smaller triangles at the top.
• Once your model looks right, press and crease all the folds well.
• Lastly, fold the bottom point back to form the bottom of your boat. If you get it just right, it should stand up by itself!

Hope you enjoyed this model. They look great in different sizes to make a whole fleet.

Don’t forget, you can subscribe to my email list for updates, fun stationery finds, handmade joy and the odd treat!

• Tags Origami , Origami tutorial , Paper craft

2 replies on “Simple step-by-step origami boat tutorial”

Hi – This was easy to follow – thank you. However, I am unsure about the very last step. I am not sure what is meant by “fold(ing) the bottom point back”. Thank you.

Hi, thanks for trying this out! At the last step, you should be left with two ‘sails’ at the top, and the bottom goes down into a point; you just need to fold this point back/under (roughly in half) to create a flat bottom for your boat! This also makes a little stand for your boat. I hope that makes sense.

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