How to Fold a Paper Fortune Teller

How to Fold a Paper Fortune Teller - Easy Origami Craft for Kids

Paper fortune tellers -- or cootie catchers -- are fun origami style paper crafts that have entertained kids for generations! This classic folding project teaches basic origami techniques while creating an interactive toy that can predict the future or hold small treasures. Bonus: flip it upside down and it becomes a 'salt cellar' that can hold things for you! Perfect for teaching paper folding skills and creating hours of imaginative play.

10-10 minutes Ages 6-12

About This Project

A 10–10 minutes craft for ages 6–12, using supplies you likely already have — Scissors, Markers, and Paper.

GlueStick supports kids from setup to cleanup. After they choose a project, we guide them through gathering the supplies, making it, and cleaning up when they're done. We'll even help them share it safely with trusted family and friends.

Ad-free and kid-safe library — designed by a mom who wants kids to explore and create independently.

This project is perfect for:
Project Tags
paper crafting fortune teller games origami indoor classic games cootie catcher fine motor skills partner play playground budget friendly
  1. 1

    Find Supplies

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    Create a free GlueStick account to track supplies and see if you have what you need at a glance. Leave your kids tips about where supplies are stored in your household so they can set up and clean up their creative spaces independently.
    00:00
    A cartoon of Scissors
    You have: unknown
    A cartoon of Markers
    You have: unknown
    A cartoon of Paper
    You have: unknown
  2. 2

    Make How to Fold a Paper Fortune Teller

    Your creative buddy says:
    "I can't wait to make a project with you!"

    Step 1: Cut the paper into a square

    Start with a blank sheet of 8.5 x 11" paper. Cut the paper into a square.

    Step 2: Fold the paper into fourths

    Fold the paper in half so it is long and skinny like a hot dog bun. Fold the paper in half again so it is square and 1/4 it's original size. Unfold the paper.

    Step 3: Fold the corners in

    Fold over the four corners, evenly into the middle. Fold into fourths again. Flip over the paper.

    Step 4: Fold from the back

    Fold over the corners on the back side of the paper. Fold into fourths one last time. Fit your fingers into the slits and open. Fill your fortune teller with silly fortunes. (My favorite is the Magic 8 Ball style.) Playing with a fortune teller is more fun with 2 people: one person should ask a question, while the other person works the teller.
  3. 3

    Clean up

    Put things away so your space is tidy for next time.

    Tidy up our space

    Put away our supplies

    Check off each supply when it is put away — and any clean-up tips underneath are done too. You might find a fun surprise!

    • A cartoon of Markers
      Where they belong:
      • — Don't forget! Close all marker caps tightly.
    • A cartoon of Paper
      Where they belong:
    • A cartoon of Scissors
      Where they belong:

    Update what we have left

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  4. 4

    Save

    Your creative buddy says:
    "Great job!"

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About the Author

STL Motherhood

I’m a boy mom, crafter and former reporter who loves taking my kids to superhero movies. Join me for a mix of traditional kid crafts, STEM fun and 3D printing.

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