Looking for a fun and creative craft project? A puffy origami heart is a simple yet charming decoration that can be used for gifts, parties, or just to brighten someone’s day. Follow these easy steps to make your own puffy heart from a single piece of paper!
We created a two-minute video to show you step by step how to make an inflatable origami heart–we recommend watching it to provide a visual aid.
Materials Needed:
- A square piece of paper
Step 1: Create Your Square
If your paper isn’t already a square, start by cutting it into an even square shape. This will ensure your folds are accurate and your heart turns out symmetrical.
Step 2: Fold in Half
Fold your square paper in half horizontally and crease it well. Then open it back up.
Step 3: Add a Bottom Fold
Fold a small amount of the bottom edge upwards. This should only be a tiny fold—just enough to act as a guide for future steps.
Step 4: Fold in Half Again
Now, fold the entire square in half horizontally, bringing the folded bottom edge to meet the unfolded top edge. Crease it firmly.
Step 5: Shape the Heart’s Tip
With the bottom edge folded, bring the top corners down to meet the center of the folded bottom edge. This will create a triangular shape. Make sure your folds are neat and precise.
Step 6: Check Your Triangle
After folding the corners, your paper should resemble a triangle. It’s okay if the tip at the bottom is slightly flat; this is where you’ll blow in air later.
Step 7: Fold the Inside Points
Fold up the inside points on both sides of the triangle to create a guide for your next folds. These guidelines will help shape the heart.
Step 8: Fold the Bottom Corners
Fold the bottom corners inward so that the tips meet the guidelines you just created. This step starts to form the rounded edges of the heart.
Step 9: Tuck the Paper
Fold up the inside flaps and tuck them into the triangular pockets you created in the previous step. This secures the folds and shapes the heart.
Step 10: Round the Heart
Flip your heart over so that the flat tip is on the bottom. Fold the top corners inward slightly to round out the top of the heart. This step gives it a softer, more natural shape.
Step 11: Puff Up Your Heart
Gently blow into the opening at the bottom tip of the heart. If you’ve folded everything correctly, your heart will puff up beautifully!
Tips for Success:
- Use a piece of paper that’s sturdy but easy to fold, like origami paper.
- Make sure your creases are firm and precise for the best results.
- Experiment with different sizes and colors to create a variety of puffy hearts!
This simple craft is perfect for Valentine’s Day, DIY gifts, or even just as a relaxing creative activity. Try it out and share your results with friends and family. Happy folding!