Some models demand an entire evening of patient folding. This one asks for about as much time as it takes to boil the kettle. The origami heart is a true classic: instantly recognisable, quick to make, and endlessly handy once you know it. Slip one inside a birthday card, rest it on a wrapped present, tuck it into a lunchbox, or fold a few and thread them into a garland for a party.

Because it grows out of just two simple creases, this is also one of the most forgiving folds there is, which makes it a perfect gateway project when you are new to origami and a pleasant warm-up when you are not. Best of all, when the little heart finally clicks into shape and you turn the paper over, you will wonder why it took you so long to try it.

Learn how to make an easy origami heart! This little love heart takes only about a minute to fold from a single square sheet of paper. Write a heartfelt note on it to give on Valentine's Day, anniversaries, or any day you want to show someone you care.

STEP 1. This is the front of the paper, our heart will be this colour.

STEP 2. This is the back of our paper.

STEP 3. Fold the right edge of the paper over to the left.

STEP 4. Unfold the previous step.

STEP 5. Fold the bottom edge of the paper up to the top edge.

STEP 6. Unfold the previous step.

STEP 7. Fold the bottom edge of the paper up to the central crease.

STEP 8. Flip the paper over to the other side, from left to right.

STEP 9. Fold the bottom right corner diagonally up to the left, aligning it with the vertical crease.

STEP 10. Fold the bottom left corner diagonally up to the right, aligning it with the vertical crease.

STEP 11. Flip the paper over to the other side, from left to right.

STEP 12. Fold the left and right edges to meet in the middle.

STEP 13. Fold the top left and right corners diagonally inwards.

STEP 14. Bring the top point down to the bottom point and start to flatten it down.

STEP 15. Insert the top point inside the lower pocket.

STEP 16. This is what your origami heart should look like now.

STEP 17. Flatten the top section of the heart.

STEP 18. Fold the top left and right corners diagonally inwards.

STEP 19. Fold the two top points of the heart down a little.

STEP 20. Flip the paper over to see your completed origami heart!