Origami Crane The classic figure of the crane is a Japanese symbol of long life

Position the paper with the white side facing up

Fold the triangle as indicated

Raise top sheet, bring C up to form a square C A

A C

A C

A C

A C C

A C C

A C

Turn the model over and repeat on the other side to form a square. A C

A C

A C

Fold the front layer of the side flaps towards the centre A C

A C

A C

A C

Fold the front layer of the side flaps towards the centre. Repeat this on the other side. A C

Fold the front layer of the side flaps towards the centre. Repeat this on the other side. A C

Unfold the model to leave clear creases A C

Lift the front layer of the bottom flap A C

C A

Lift the front layer of the bottom flap push in at the sides C A

C A

A C

Lift the front layer of the bottom flap push in at the sides and flatten the edges so that they meet in the centre. A C

A C

Turn the model over and repeat the diamond. A C

A C

Fold the front layer to the centre. A

A

Fold the front layer to the centre. Repeat behind. A

A

Reverse fold for tail and neck sections: A

Reverse fold the head downwards

Gently pull apart the wings so that the body of the crane opens up

The crane is a traditional symbol of long life and good luck. According to Japanese folklore, the crane lives for 1000 years. It is also said that “ the boy who makes a thousand cranes will rule the world”.