There is something quietly charming about the origami Japanese lady. With just one square sheet and a handful of clever folds — plus a few small cuts — she takes shape as a little figure with a neat, kimonolike silhouette and a calm, turned head. She is a lovely project once you already enjoy traditional figure folding and want something that feels a touch more refined than a simple crane.

Take your time with the incisions around the head; that small bit of cutting is exactly what gives her such a recognizable, gentle profile. By the end you will have a tidy paper lady you can stand on a shelf or give as a tiny handmade gift.

STEP 1.

Take a square sheet of paper, fold it in half sideways to make a crease and unfold.

STEP 2.

Fold the top edges to meet the center line.

STEP 3.

Fold the top corner to the bottom line of the previous two flaps and unfold.

STEP 4.

Fold the top corner backward.

STEP 5.

Turn the item over.

STEP 6.

Cut out a triangle on each side of the flap.

STEP 7.

Unfold the flap.

STEP 8.

Make an incision in the center of the crease, cutting both layers.

STEP 9.

Insert the flap into the incision.

STEP 10.

Make two more incisions as shown.

STEP 11.

Fold the upper layers of the side edges to the center line.

STEP 12.

Fold the top part downward, lifting the back flap.

STEP 13.

Fold the flap in half downward and tuck the tip inside the pocket to shape the head.

STEP 14.

Fold the corners inward.

STEP 15.

Fold the side parts towards each other, bringing the side corners to the center line.

STEP 16.

Fold the bottom part backward.

STEP 17.

The Japanese lady is complete!