DIY Paper Fortune Teller: Fun & Easy Instructions
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Remember those fun paper fortune tellers from childhood? Also known as cootie catchers, these simple origami creations are a great way to entertain kids (and adults!) and spark some creativity. This guide will walk you through how to make a paper fortune teller, step by step. Let's get folding!
What You'll Need
- A square piece of paper (6x6 inches is a good starting size)
- Pens, markers, or crayons for decorating
- Scissors (optional, if you don't have square paper)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Square: If you're starting with a rectangular piece of paper, fold one corner over to the opposite side to create a triangle. Cut off the excess rectangle to make a square. Unfold the triangle to reveal your square.
- Fold in Half (Both Ways): Fold the square in half, corner to corner, creating a triangle. Open it up and fold it in half again, corner to corner, creating another triangle. You should now have a crease in the shape of an 'X' across your square.
- Fold Corners to the Center: Take each corner of the square and fold it in towards the center, so that all four corners meet at the middle point. This will create a smaller square.
- Flip It Over: Turn the folded square over to the other side.
- Fold Corners to the Center (Again): Just like before, take each corner of this side of the square and fold it in towards the center. You should now have an even smaller square.
- Write Numbers or Colors: On each of the four flaps, write a number (1-8) or a color (red, blue, green, yellow).
- Write Fortunes: Lift each flap and write a fortune, prediction, or funny task underneath. Get creative and have fun with these!
- Final Shaping: Fold the square in half, then in half again, so the numbers/colors are on the outside. Gently push your fingers underneath the four corners to create the pockets.
- Operating the Fortune Teller: Put your thumbs and index fingers into the pockets under the four corners. Push the corners together and pull them apart to open and close the fortune teller.
How to Play
- Ask a Question: Have someone ask a question that can be answered with "yes" or "no," or a specific number.
- Choose a Number or Color: Have the person choose a number or color from the outside of the fortune teller.
- Count or Spell: If they chose a number, count that many times, opening and closing the fortune teller with each count. If they chose a color, spell out the color, opening and closing the fortune teller with each letter.
- Reveal the Fortune: After counting or spelling, have the person choose one of the numbers or colors that are now visible. Lift the flap and read the fortune underneath!
Tips for Extra Fun
- Get Creative with Decorations: Use glitter, stickers, and different colored pens to make your fortune teller unique.
- Personalize the Fortunes: Tailor the fortunes to your friends' and family's interests for a more personalized experience.
- Make it Educational: Use the fortune teller to quiz kids on math facts or spelling words.
Making a paper fortune teller is a classic activity that provides hours of entertainment. With these simple instructions, you can create your own fortune teller and share the fun with others. So grab a piece of paper and start folding!
Call to action: Try making a batch of these for your next party or family gathering!
