Pistol

Some origami folds are pure decoration, and some are just plain fun — the paper pistol falls firmly in the second camp. It's the kind of toy that's been passed hand to hand on playgrounds and in classrooms for as long as people have carried square paper in their pockets. This photo-led tutorial takes you through all twenty-one steps, from the first body folds to the final trigger crease, so you end up with a tidy little pistol that's perfect for pretend play or as a quirky desk companion. It's quick to learn, easy to refold when the paper gets tired, and oddly satisfying to snap shut. Grab any square of paper and let's fold a pocket-sized classic.

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