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STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO FOLDING ORIGAMI STARS

An origami star is a charming and affordable decoration that can be crafted in just a few minutes using a single sheet of paper.

Once you master the technique, you can create stars in various sizes and colors to suit any purpose.

Today, we offer detailed instructions on how to make an origami star, including step-by-step pictures, a video tutorial, and a FREE printable guide!

How Do You Make An Easy Origami Star?

Making these five-pointed origami stars is surprisingly simple, and I’m excited to provide you with complete instructions to help you master the process.

Please note that some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. For more details, feel free to read my full disclaimer.

What You’ll Need

  • A square piece of paper
  • Scissors
  • A scoring tool 
  • String 

Paper for Origami Stars
I often use scrapbooking paper for this project because it’s easy to find at your local craft store or on Amazon. Scrapbook paper comes in a variety of prints, colors, and sizes, making it perfect for creating origami stars.

The finished star will be about 60% of the size of the original piece of paper. For example, if you start with a 12×12 inch sheet, your star will end up being approximately 7 inches.

If you don’t have scrapbooking paper, don’t worry! You can use any type of paper you have on hand. I’ve seen people use regular printer paper, wrapping paper, old newspapers, and even bills to make origami stars.

Scissors
A good pair of scissors is essential for trimming the paper accurately. I personally love using Fiskars scissors—especially the smaller ones, which are perfect for paper crafts. I have several pairs for different projects!

Optional Supplies
In addition to paper and scissors, there are a few optional tools that can help make the process smoother.

I like using a scoring tool for paper folding, which helps me create clean, straight folds. This scoring tool from Amazon is a great option, but I’ve also found them at the Dollar Tree. If you don’t have one, a butter knife can work in a pinch to sharpen those folds.

Once your origami star is complete, having some string handy can be helpful for turning your creation into an ornament or garland for decoration.

How To Fold An Origami Star

Folding an origami star might seem tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s actually quite simple.

To learn how to make an origami star, I recommend watching the videos first, as they provide a clear visual guide.

If you prefer more detailed instructions, you can follow the written steps below (with pictures), or you can print out my FREE guide at the bottom of the post for easy reference.

Create a Pentagon
The first step in folding an origami star is to transform your square piece of paper into a pentagon.

This might seem challenging at first, but there’s a simple origami trick to achieve this shape. I’ve included a video below to guide you, but here are the steps written out for clarity:

Step 1: Start by folding your square paper in half, making sure to line up all the edges perfectly.

Step 2: With the paper still folded in half, take one corner from the folded side and bring it up to meet the edge of the unfolded side. This will create a 45-degree angle along that end of the paper.

Step 3: Unfold the previous step, and then mirror it by bringing the top, unfolded side down to create another 45-degree angle in the opposite direction. Once you’ve made this fold, unfold it as well.

At this point, you should have two creases that form an X on one side of your paper. These creases will guide you in creating the pentagon shape.

Step 4: Now, take the bottom folded edge of the opposite side of the paper and bring the corner up to the center of the X you just created. Then, fold the paper along this crease.

Step 5: Take the edge you just folded and fold it back on itself so that it meets the outside edge of the paper. This will help shape the pentagon.

Step 6: Take the opposite corner and fold it inward to the meet the edge of the paper you’ve folded inward.

Step 7: Flip the entire paper over and then fold it in half, ensuring that the fold runs from the pointed end to the edges of the paper. This will help align the paper properly for the next steps.

Step 8: Take your scissors and carefully cut along the straight edge closest to the point of the paper. This will help create the final shape for your pentagon.

Step 9: Unfold your paper, and you should have a perfect pentagon shape ready for your origami star!

Creating the Origami Star
Now that you have your pentagon, it’s time to begin folding your five-pointed origami star. The process is outlined in the video below, but if you prefer written instructions, I’ve provided them here as well.

Step 1: Place the paper flat in front of you with the decorated side (if any) facing down.

Step 2: Reinforce each of the five folds that run from a point to the opposite flat side, ensuring they are crisp and well-defined for the next steps.

Step 3: Open up the pentagon so that one point is facing away from you and a flat side is facing toward you. Then, fold the bottom flat side upward so that the corners align with the creases on the top half of the paper.

Step 4: Open the fold, then rotate your paper to the next edge of the pentagon and repeat Step 3 for that side. Continue this process for all five sides of the pentagon.

Step 5: Open the pentagon up again. Starting from the left side, fold the side in again. Then, fold the bottom in as well, but push the side outward where the two folds overlap, creating a small flap.

Step 6: Open the pentagon back up and repeat the previous process for all five sides, ensuring each side is folded in as described.

Step 7: Pinch all the corners together and gently work the paper so that it starts to collapse onto itself. As you do this, each part should overlap the next, forming a rough star shape with a small pentagon in the center.

Step 8: Flip the star over to the opposite side. Take one of the flaps and fold the point of the small pentagon so that the corner meets the center. Repeat this process for all sides. The last fold may be a bit tricky because it will need to be tucked under the first one, but with a little patience, you can complete the fold.

Optional Step 9: On the back side of the star, you’ll notice a hexagon that matches the color of the back of the paper. If you’d like to cover this, take your scissors and carefully clip along the folds of the pentagon. Then, tuck these clipped ends under the other flaps so that they are hidden from view.

Now, you’ve completed your five-pointed origami star!

CONCLUSION

Conclusion:

Congratulations, you’ve successfully created a beautiful five-pointed origami star! With just a simple piece of paper and a few folding steps, you’ve crafted a unique and stunning decoration. Feel free to experiment with different paper colors and patterns to create a variety of stars for ornaments, garlands, or other creative projects. Remember, the more you practice, the easier and more polished your stars will become. Enjoy the process and the beautiful results!

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR EMERGENCY TRAVEL BAG

I always keep a small bag of essentials in the bottom of my purse, but when traveling, it becomes even more crucial to have a few must-haves on hand—especially if you’re like me and need a chapstick within reach at all times! Whether you’re on a plane, cruise ship, or in a foreign country, you can’t always just stop by a store when something comes up.

To help you stay prepared, here’s a list of toiletries and emergency essentials for your next trip. The goal is to pack everything you might need in the most compact bag possible. You may not need every item, but this list covers a wide range of travel must-haves. I put this together simply by going through the bag I already carry, so you can trust it’s based on real-life experience!

For your convenience, I’ve included links to some of my favorite items, but many of these can be found at home, the dollar store, or Target.

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL BAG MUST-HAVES

Before you start packing, you’ll need a small bag or pouch to keep everything organized. If you already have one, great! If not, I highly recommend these Mesh Zipper Pouches—they come in various sizes and are see-through, making it easy to find what you need. I use them for everything, from organizing passports and electronics to storing paperwork.

ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR TRAVEL BAG

Small tissue pouch
Cough drops
Favorite chapstick (because you can never have too many)
Bandages & alcohol wipes – I love Welly brand bandages; they’re both cute and high-quality. Handy for little ones and adults alike!
Folding brush/comb
Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick – This is a multitasking lifesaver! It works as chapstick, lotion, diaper rash relief, and even for minor burns or dry skin. A must-have.
Antacids
Pen – Perfect for travel forms, notes, or when you can never seem to find one in your purse.
Travel-size ibuprofen – You can buy these in convenient single-dose packets. I keep them in my purse, car, and emergency kits—so handy!
Acetaminophen – Have you ever tried Goody’s Extra Strength Headache Powder? These dissolvable packets contain caffeine for fast relief (just note they also have aspirin).
Nail file – Because nothing else can replace it when you need one!
Flossers – Ever had something stuck in your teeth at a restaurant? These are lifesavers. A small travel case of Plackers is perfect.
Tampons, pads, liners, or a menstrual cup
Extra cash – Small bills for vending machines, tips, or emergencies.
Extra hair tie & bobby pins
Disposable face mask – While not always required, it’s good to have one just in case.
Pepto Bismol Chewables – Trying new foods is part of the adventure, but if your stomach disagrees, these are great to have. They treat multiple symptoms and pack flat.
Dramamine – If you get motion sickness (like I do!), this is a must for car rides, cruises, or even sitting on a dock.
Hand sanitizer gel or wipes

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS FOR EXTRA CONVENIENCE

Travel-size deodorant or Lume invisible cream
Travel-size makeup for quick touch-ups
Small folding fan
Glasses cleaning wipes – For fellow glasses wearers, these are a must.
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes – Single-use packs are perfect for freshening up on international flights.
Children’s chewable medications – If you’re traveling with little ones.
Oil blotting sheets – I found these bamboo charcoal oil blotting sheets—super effective, and a single pack comes with 600 sheets!
Safety pin, paperclip, rubber band – Tiny but useful in unexpected situations.
Travel-size sewing kit
Compact mirror
Wisp mini toothbrush – No water needed, perfect for freshening up on the go.
Gum or mints
Shout Wipes or Tide to Go Stick – For inevitable spills.
Mini scissors

CUSTOMIZE IT TO FIT YOUR NEEDS!

The best part about putting together your own travel essentials bag is that you can tailor it to what you need most. If there’s something you use regularly, try to find a travel-size version to save space.

This would also make a fantastic gift for a high school or college student heading back to school! A cute bag filled with both essentials and fun accessories would be both practical and thoughtful.

What are you adding to your travel emergency bag?