How to Make a Paper Fortune Teller (Origami Chatterbox) Step by Step
If you’ve ever played with a paper fortune teller, also called a paper chatterbox, you know how much fun it can be! This simple origami craft is easy to make and perfect for kids and adults alike. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own fortune teller origami and start predicting the future in no time!
Materials Needed
- A square piece of paper (any size, but 6×6 inches works well)
- A pen or marker to write fortunes
- If you want to know more about which supplies are best check out our latest blog on origami supplies.
Step 1: Make Creases for Folding
Start by folding the right side of the paper over to the left, making a vertical crease. Unfold the paper and then fold it in half horizontally, bringing the top edge to the bottom. Unfold again. These folds create an ‘X’ and ‘+’ pattern, helping guide the next steps.
Step 2: Fold the Corners to the Center
Flip the paper over so that the creases you just made are facing downward. Now, take one corner of the paper and fold it toward the center point. Align the edges neatly and press down to make a strong crease. Repeat this step for the remaining three corners. When finished, your paper should resemble a smaller square with all four corners meeting in the middle.
Step 3: Repeat Folding on the Other Side
Turn your folded square over to the other side. Again, fold each of the four corners into the center, just like you did in the previous step. When done, you will have an even smaller square with all the corners meeting in the middle once more.
Step 4: Fold and Unfold to Create Openings
Turn the paper over again. Fold it in half by bringing the top edge to the bottom edge. Press down firmly to crease, then unfold. Now, fold the right edge to the left and crease, then unfold again. These folds will help shape your fortune teller.
Step 5: Form the Pockets
Flip the paper over one last time and gently push the center up while bringing the four corners together. This will create four small pockets where your fingers will go to operate the fortune teller.
Step 6: Adjust and Reinforce the Shape
Hold the fortune teller and gently push the sides inward to shape it. Adjust any folds to make it neat. You should now be able to move the flaps by inserting your fingers under the four openings.
Step 7: Write Fortunes and Play!
Use a pen or marker to write different fortunes or fun challenges inside the paper chatterbox. You can also write numbers or colors on the outer flaps to make choosing a fortune more fun. Now, it’s ready to use! Ask a friend to pick a number, open and close the fortune teller that many times, and reveal their fortune!
Have Fun!
Making a fortune teller origami is an easy and entertaining craft for kids and adults alike. This classic paper toy provides endless fun and creativity. Whether you call it a paper chatterbox or an origami fortune teller, it’s a great activity to share with friends and family. Try different colors, themes, or even a dollar origami version for a fun twist! If you are looking for other fun origami projects try your hand at Origami Stars or ever popular origami heart