Sometimes the simplest folds make the sweetest little things. This origami bird is a classic first project—just a square of paper, a handful of easy folds, and suddenly you've got a tiny creature with a tail and a neck. It's the kind of model you can fold absent-mindedly while chatting, then hand to a kid or pin to the wall. If you're new to origami, this is a friendly place to begin; if you've been folding for years, it's a quick, satisfying warm-up. Give it a go and see how many you end up making.

This cute little origami bird is one of the easiest models to fold, and it’s great fun! The steps are easy to follow, so anyone can make one.

Step 1

Fold and crease in the direction of the arrow.

Step 2

Fold the paper along the dotted line in the direction of the arrow.

Step 3

Fold backwards along the dotted line.

Step 4

Fold and crease in the direction of the arrow.

Step 5

Open the paper as shown to create a small pocket. Then flatten down the sides of the pocket.

Step 6

Continue from step 5.

Step 7

Do the same on the reverse side.

Step 8

Fold the paper along the dotted line in the direction of the arrow.

Step 9

Fold the paper along the dotted line in the direction of the arrow.

Step 10

Fold the paper along the dotted line in the direction of the arrow.

Step 11

Fold in half along the dotted line.

Step 12

Fold the paper with the dotted line on the inside.

Step 13

Pull out the left side of the triangle to create a tail and a neck. After doing so press down hard on the body to secure.

Step 14

Complete.