paper sailboat instructions

How to Make a Cute Origami Sail Boat!

The Spruce / Chrissy Pk

Completed Origami Sail Boat

This is a very simple traditional origami model, the origami sailboat makes a sweet little decoration perfect as decor at a kids party because they stand up, make great table place cards or, folded flat, use as a card embellishment.

You could also attach a long thread and use as a garland, hanging display or baby mobile. There are so many possibilities with this easy to remember the origami model.

This project requires just one piece of square paper. It works best with origami paper that has a design or color that is different on each side.

You can use slightly thicker paper, such as the craft paper used in the tutorial, which has a blue-and-white side and is six inches.

If you're new to origami this is the perfect model to start with and would be great as an origami project for kids. You could also put these little boats in envelopes as a cute card.

Folding the Paper Square to Make a Triangle

Have your paper boat-side up. If you want your sails to be white, have the color-side facing up.

Now fold the paper diagonally. Bring the bottom corner of the paper up to the top and unfold. Next, fold the right corner over to the left and unfold.

Refolding the Paper to Make a Rectangle.

Turn the paper over to the other side, and rotate it as shown.

Fold the paper in half, right to left, and unfold.

Fold the paper from bottom to top, and unfold.

Creating the Sails

Making sure the paper is still white-side up, fold the top and bottom corners to the central crease.

Bring the left and right corners inward together to the top, and then collapse the model as shown.

Insert Paper Corners Into Each Other

Fold the left sail down to the bottom, and then fold it back up. Leave about a centimeter overlap behind as shown.

Tuck the overlap into the pocket of the boat by gently opening it.

Create the Bottom of the Sailboat

Turn the boat over, and fold the bottom corner up to the center. This will be the stand.

Turn the model back over to the other side, and you're finished.

If you want the boat to be flat, you could use a little bit of glue or double-sided tape to stick it down.

Remember that origami takes practice, so take your time and fold as precisely as possible, and you will get a better result.

If you're more advanced with origami, you could also unfold the whole thing and reverse squash fold the bottom stand so it would have an internal pocket. If you're interested in more origami boats, try the traditional one .

More from The Spruce Crafts

Origami Guide

Origami Instructions – Learn How To Make Origami

How To Fold A Traditional Origami Boat

Page 1 of 3.

Traditional Origami Boat

Level: Easy

Copyright: Traditional ?

Time Needed: Approx. 5 Minutes

Tools: None

Supplies: 1 Sheet of Square Paper

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Learn how to fold probably the most famous and well known origami boat. This traditional origami sail boat actually floats so makes a great origami model to teach kids .

You can make these origami boats out of newspaper and other rectangular sized paper. You will probably notice it looks like a hat near the end. This traditional origami boat is actually just a few steps more that the origami hat model ( tutorial here ).

You will need rectangular paper for this origami boat. Either A4, US letter paper or trim from a square.

Traditional Origami Boat Instructions

Scroll down to follow the photo tutorial for the Traditional Origami Boat .

Made this origami? Leave a comment & submit your photo on the last page here .

Step 1: This is the front of our paper, the inner triangle of the boat will be this colour.

Step 2: This is the back of the paper, the lower rim of the boat will end up this colour.

Step 3: Fold the top edge down to the bottom edge.

Step 4: Next bring the right corner over to the left and make a small crease.

Step 5: Unfold the previous step.

Step 6: Bring the top left and top right corners down using the crease as a starting point.

Step 7: Flatten the paper so that you have this, both flaps aligned nicely.

Origami topics: Origami | Origami Instructions | How To Origami | How To Do Origami | Origami Folding | Origami Craft | Origami Tutorial | Origami Step By Step | Origami Lessons | How To Make Origami | Paper Origami | Origami Gifts | Simple Origami | Easy Origami | Origami For Kids | Origami For Children

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People Folding Paper

Origami Boat

November 1, 2023 by Origami Admin

Difficulty: Easy

Ahoy, aspiring paper crafters! Prepare to set sail on a creative journey as we delve into the delightful art of origami and embark on a nautical adventure with these instructions for making an origami boat.

Origami, a traditional Japanese art form, is a fascinating blend of simplicity and precision, where a single sheet of paper is transformed into intricate shapes through the magic of folding. In this guide, we’ll explore the joy of crafting an origami boat, a timeless symbol of exploration and adventure. Whether you’re new to origami or a seasoned paper-folding enthusiast, you’ll find this project both enjoyable and rewarding.

Origami boats are not just charming in their simplicity; they also carry a sense of wanderlust and curiosity. As you fold the paper and bring your boat to life, you’ll be reminded of the endless possibilities and journeys that await you.

These step-by-step instructions will provide you with a clear and easy-to-follow path to create your very own origami boat. Once completed, your miniature paper vessel can serve as a lovely decoration, a thoughtful gift, or a playful addition to your creative repertoire.

So, grab a square piece of paper, prepare to navigate the folds, and let’s sail away into the world of origami with the construction of a charming paper boat!

Not only does this origami boat look super cute, but it floats too! Why not have sailing races or see how much weight they can carry?

Step 1: Start with a rectangular piece of origami paper placed in portrait position. We’re using single sided paper which will result in a sail in a different colour to the hull.

Step 2: Fold the paper in half horizontally, bringing the top down to meet the bottom

Step 3: Fold the paper in half vertically, bringing the left side over to meet the right. Make sure you only crease the very top section of this fold!

Step 4: Unfold the paper

Step 5: Fold the two top coners down to meet in the centre

Step 6: Fold the top layer of paper upwards

Step 7: Turn the boat around

Step 8: Repeat step 6, folding the bottom layer of paper upwards

Step 9: Open up the inside of the boat

Step 10: As you widen the boat, ensure the ends fold underneath one another

This website has been created with the simple aim of bringing the joy and benefits of origami to more people.  We have tried to make it as user friendly as possible.  If you can’t find what you’re looking for, try searching below.

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How to Fold an Origami Sail Boat

Last Updated: April 25, 2024

This article was co-authored by Robert Homayoon . Robert Homayoon is an Origami Expert known for his engaging YouTube videos and accessible instructions. He has been teaching origami on YouTube since 2009. His channel has a following of over 676,000 subscribers, and his videos have garnered over 211 million views. Robert uses his channel to highlight his passion for teaching people origami, crafts, and how to solve puzzles. He graduated from SUNY Albany in 2007 and earned his D.M.D degree from Temple University Dental School in 2013. This article has been viewed 65,397 times.

Origami is fun, and can be a boredom buster. Learn how to make a sailboat with origami.

Expert Q&A

• You can also use wax paper so it can float on water, or other liquids. Normal paper will get soggy. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Use colored paper to make it look creative. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Don't get discouraged if you mess up the first time. Nobody is perfect! Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

• Don't get paper cuts! Thanks Helpful 13 Not Helpful 3
• Be careful while using scissors. Thanks Helpful 12 Not Helpful 4
• Handle everything with care-or have an elder help you. Thanks Helpful 11 Not Helpful 5

Things You'll Need

• 8 1/2 by 11 sheet copy paper
• Wax paper (optional)
• Scissors (for wax paper if needed)

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Origami Way

Make a paper boat origami boat instructions and diagram.

If you've always wanted to play with boats in the tub, but your parents wouldn't get one for you, don't worry. I will show you how to make an origami boat out of paper, and yes it floats...for a little bit, but it's still fun nonetheless. However, I heard that if you color the bottom of the boat with crayon, then it will float longer. Just be careful not to splash too much water on it!

Before we get into how to make an origami boat, let us first discuss where this paper folding originated and where it first appeared. If you're interested in the history of paper folding, continue reading to learn the fundamentals of origami.

Research studies say that origami was first invented about a thousand years ago by the Japanese, but its roots may well be in China. The term refers to the craft of paper folding. The word "origami" is an inclusive term for the folding process of paper. "Ori" means "folding," and "gami" means "paper." The objective of origami is to transform a flat square sheet of paper into a fully completed piece of art through folding techniques and cutting methods.

How to Make a Paper Boat Float Longer?

If you're ready to make your paper boat origami, keep these tips in mind to ensure it will last a long time on the water. The most common is that if you color the bottom of the origami boat with crayons, it will float longer but not long enough to reach the finish line. Some people also say that to make the boat last longer when it is on water, try using foil paper or grease-proof paper.

How to Make a Paper Boat?

The origami boat is actually very simple to make. All you need is a rectangular piece of paper, so any 8.5x11 copy or lined paper will do. Then follow the instructions and pictures carefully and you'll be able to make your own origami boat that floats.

With the help of this simple step-by-step lesson, you can quickly and easily create the most well-known origami paper boat.

• © Origamiway.com

How to Fold a Traditional Origami Boat

These instructions will show you how to fold an easy traditional origami boat. Most models begin with a square sheet of paper but this one uses a rectangle. A sheet of regular printer paper works fine and you don’t need to worry too much about the exact shape of the rectangle you use.

If you’re just starting out we recommend that you check out our  Beginner’s Guide  to learn all the basics first.

Step 1)  Fold the paper in half and then unfold it.

Step 2)  Fold the paper in half the other way.

Step 3)  Fold the top corners down and to the centre.

Step 4)  Fold the top layer of paper up along the dotted line.

Step 5)  Fold the bottom layer of paper up and behind the model.

Step 6)  Open up the paper the middle. Push in the sides while pulling the middle forward and back. Flatten everything.

Step 7)  Fold the top flap of paper up along the dotted line then repeat behind.

Step 8)  Pull the paper back out like you did in step 6.

Step 9)  Pull both ends out.

The completed traditional origami boat

What did you think about this traditional origami boat? Let us know in the comments!

I've been into origami for quite some time now, and I've been teaching it here on Origami.me for over 14 years. My other hobbies include martial arts, travel, video games and Go. I'm also the author of Everyone Can Learn Origami. You should definitely check it out!

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How do you do step 7?

Origami Boat - How to Make a Paper Boat That Actually Floats

Introduction: Origami Boat - How to Make a Paper Boat That Actually Floats

Learn how to make an origami boat by following our step-by-step instructions. Your kids will enjoy making and sailing their paper boats and watching them float in the sink or in the great outdoors!

An A4 piece of paper

Start off with a sheet of paper and fold it in half downwards.

Fold in half again as shown on the second image (you don’t need to make the crease from top to bottom – you just need to mark the center).

Fold the top right corner into the centre.

Fold the top left corner into the centre.

Fold the top layer of the bottom rectangle up

Flip your paper over and fold the bottom rectangle up.

Fold the 4 Side Corners Inward

Pick up the paper, holding the flat edge and with the pointed end facing down. Push the left and right side together to open the piece of paper into a diamond shape. Continue to push the opposite sides together until they are flat against each other and a diamond shape is made.

Fold the bottom point up to the top point on one side. 

Flip the paper over. Fold the bottom point up to the top point.

Pick up the piece of paper by the flat edge, with the pointed end facing down. Push the left and right ends of the paper together as before, to make a diamond shape. Press flat.

Pinch the top two points of the diamond and gently pull them apart. Use your thumb to press along the bottom edge.

Push the opposite end of your boat to give it shape and use your fingers to form a pyramid shape in the middle.

Your origami boat is now ready to sail! Bring it to the nearest pond. A puddle left over from the next big rain shower will also work fine.

ann wood handmade

sewing patterns, crafts and diy projects

make a paper boat : a free tutorial

Some projects are most satisfying to work on in batches. These paper boats are like that. They are quick and easy and you can make a bunch at once without much extra effort. Plus the finished group is very satisfying.  You probably already have most of the materials you need and you could easily be hanging a respectable fleet by the end of the day, who doesn’t want that?

download the boat template

You will also need:.

• heavy paper (I’m using water color paper) or light cardboard (like poster board)
• a bamboo skewer
• paper for the sail
• elmer’s glue
• embroidery thread or light string (like baker’s twine)
• paints, brushes  and/or collage materials
• exacto knife
• clothespins or paperclips for clamping

*Please read through all the steps before beginning.

*Also note I included some simple directions on the sail template for your convenience  but the directions below include more details and options.

1.  Cut out the boat and mast support templates and trace them onto light cardboard or a heavy weight paper. I’m Using water color paper (140 pound hot press is my favorite). Optional – paint both sides. I almost always paint a wash of water color on both sides of the boat and mast support.

2. Place the template back on the boat and poke your pencil through where the score lines intersect. Mark with a dot. Remove the template and draw on the score lines. Draw the score lines on the mast support too and mark an X on the center of the top section.

3. Use the back of an x-acto knife to score the lines on the boat and  mast support.

4. Gently fold the boat and mast support at the score lines.

5. Add glue to the last section of the mast support, fold it into a triangle and glue the top section over it.

6. Clamp with paper clip or clothespins while it dries.

7. While your mast support dries paint or collage or draw on your boat. I did all three. I used a wash of watercolor, some pencil lines and a little collage. If you’re doing lots of collage I recommend using nori paste instead of blue stick . It is awesome. You can find it here . * FYI – this is an affiliate link – meaning I get a small commission if you purchase through the link.

8. Apply glue to the bow as indicated on the template.

9. Fold the boat together at the front and clamp with clothespins or paper clips while the glue dries.  Alternatively – you can skip the glue, bring the front sides together and stitch on the sewing machine close to the edge.

10. Fold the center back ( A on the template) and apply glue to the top.

11. Bend up tab B – covering the top of tab A and matching the top edges. Apply glue and bend up tab C covering the top of tab B and matching the top edges. Clamp and let dry. Alternatively – skip the glue and attach the three layers with a stitch and a button (step 16 below).

12. Use and xacto knife to poke an X at through the center of the mast support.

13. Snip iff the tip of your skewer and insert it into the hole – push it all the way to the bottom of the mast support. Make sure it is straight and add glue (lots) to the insertion point. Let it dry, mast support end up.

14. Cut out a sail and flag from paper. Poke a hole at the center of the top and bottom and insert the mast through the holes.

15. Cut a 36 inch length of embroidery thread or fine string (like baker’s twine) and tie a loop in the center.  Apply glue to the top 1/2 inch of the mast and wind the tails on to attach. This leaves most of the strings hanging down below.

16. Add a button at the back. Use a large needle to poke a hole through all the layers and ties on a button. Poke a hole through the tip of the bow as well and tie on one or two buttons.

17. Fold the flag in half, unfold it and apply glue stick. Fold it over the mast. Press the sides together and if you like trim and curl the ends.

18. Place the mast support into the boat. You can glue it in place or use the strings to attach hold it in place (see below).

19. Hold (or glue) the mast support in the boat and wind the strings around the buttons.  To add flags fold a 1 inch strip of paper in half the long way and cut into flags, open the flag, apply glue stick and fold over the strings.

I hope you make lots of paper boats! And for variety you can mess around with the sail configurations, scale and the edges of the boat template. If you make boats I’d love to see – please use #annwoodpattern on instagram or email a photo to me at info at ann wood handmade dot com.

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17 comments.

Thanks so much, Ann. I was recently wondering what new thing I could make with my paper, stamps and watercolors.

So exciting to share with my grandchildren, thank you!

This is lovely – thank you for sharing.

I can’t wait to make these! I made a big fleet of the paper boat ornaments last Christmas as gifts. I’ve been wanting to make boats to keep. This is it! Thank you so much!

This is a wonderful project! Thank you so much for sharing. Love your blog, I always take time to read through, “and smell the roses”.

Love them! What is the little connector you have used to connect them to the string that is holding them up to the ceiling? Thank you as always……

Thanks Gail! I put a little button on the end of each string so I could move the boats around easily when I was arranging them. Just slip the loop at the top of the boat over the button to hang.

You let our imaginations set sail upon a sea of dreams. A perfect ship for my little spool and button dolls to sail away. Thank you!

I am quite sure that I will be making some little boats in the near future!

What a lovely place to create, that library and cabin and the scenery look so peaceful and inspiring.

For some reason I have never commented before, not sure what that is as I have enjoyed your blog a lot, and I think I have made about twenty of your little tiny rag dolls now! The first three made just after you first published the pattern, the rest I’ve made this year. Just made the jacket last night and my newest one ‘Clipper’ loves it.

Thank you for your generosity in sharing these marvellous patterns.

I so ♥ this, and the fact that you are still blogging & making fun tutorials Ann! So many bloggers have stopped and I miss them all!

I recently printed the pattern for the needle case and will make myself one soon, with fabric inherited from my grandmother.

This post got me started on a most enjoyable series of paper mache boats using your “Dear Little Boats” pattern – thank you for being so generous with your creativity.

Dear Ann, How generous of you to share such detailed instructions for free! I haven’t had the courage yet to make a ship, but I am much inspired. Thank you for the lovely world, mood, spirit, and community you have created with this faithful, long-running blog. It is balm and a well of inspiration for creative, like-minded souls. Blessings, Hollyann

So so elegant simple and beutifull

I am finishing up my little wire bed for mouse. I am having so much fun! You’d think I was a little girl or teenager, and not a 73 year young women. Great to be able to do whatever you want to do.

[…] Quote from the source: … […]

I have made these mini boats and people love them. The instructions are clear and easy to follow and the result is precious.

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How to make a paper boat (step-by-step instructions)

I think everyone has made a paper boat at least once in their lifetime. Making paper boat is easy as we don’t need many materials to make it.

This is an origami craft, so all you need is a sheet of paper.

And this is a craft that every parent passes onto their kids, right?

Here is the step-by-step way to make a boat out of paper.

Materials required

A4 sheet / Letter size paper/Any rectangular paper

Step-by-step tutorial to make an easy paper boat for kids

a. Take an A4 sheet paper. Hold it horizontally as shown in the picture.

b. Fold it from left to right.

c. Make a crease.

d. Now, fold the paper from bottom to top.

e. Fold it well and make a crease.

f. Unfold the fold we just made in step d.

g&h. Now, fold the right corner towards the centre and make a crease.

i. Similarly, fold the left corner towards the centre.

j. Flatten the folded pieces down and now you have the figure as shown in pic j.

k&l. Now, from the bottom, fold one layer upwards along the bottom of the folds we made in j.

m. Make a crease and flatten it well.

n. Turn the figure over.

o. Now, like we did in the previous step, fold the bottom layer upwards.

p. Flatten the fold and make a crease again.

q&r. Open the bottom of the figure.

s. After opening as shown in pic r, flatten the top corner to the bottom as you can see in pic s.

You can see that the edges of the paper boat are overlapping on each other.

t. Insert one edge into the other (see pic t).

u. You get the figure in u.

v. Now, fold the layer from bottom to the top as shown in pic v.

w. Flatten the fold.

x. Flip the paper over and fold the other layer too. You will get the triangle shape in x.

y. Open the bottom of the figure again by pulling the flaps apart.

z. Flatten it out and you will get a diamond shape now.

aa. Open the figure by pulling the sides apart from the top to get the shape of the boat.

ab. Flatten it out an open again and your paper boat is ready.

In case you have any doubt regarding any step, feel free to watch the step-by-step video tutorial below. Please make sure you also  subscribe to our Youtube channel  to get more craft ideas for kids every week. 

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Video tutorial to make a paper boat

More paper crafts for kids

• How to make a paper airplane step-by-step
• How to make an easy and beautiful paper flower
• How to make an Origami jumping frog step-by-step

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How to Make a Paper Boat – Origami for Kids

We love doing simple origami and this time we’re going to learn how to make a paper boat – a summer favorite!

We’ve done quite a few awesome origami tutorials for kids and each of them is a must make!

I loved to make these as a kid (the exact same ones) and I loved to play with them even more – we would sail them in the bathtub, puddles and lakes and when possible even have boat races with other neighbourhood kids.

This time though we took it a step further too see who can make the smallest origami boat – each time working with a smaller piece of paper (cutting the size of the paper to half each time) and I was genuinely surprised with the size of paper we have come down to – and too be honest we could probably do one even smaller if I’d have some tweezers at hand.

How to Make a Paper Boat

All you need is a sheet of paper letter sized or A4. Regular print paper is perfect for this project. Use as many colors as possible.

Start off with a sheet of paper and fold it in half downwards.

Fold in half again as shown on the second image (you don’t need to make the crease from top to bottom – you just need to mark the center).

Bring corners to the center so that you get a triangle shape with a rectangle under it.

Fold the rectangle part under the triangle upwards (as shown with the purple spots) – flip your origami and do the same on the other side.

Grab the center of the triangle shape as indicated on the first image above with the red spot and pull both sides (holding the red spot) out. Flatten.

You’ll get the shape as shown on the second image above (ignore that red spot in the left bottom corner – I have no idea how that one came there haha).

Fold the front layer up (as shown with the green spot) flip the origami boat to be and do the same with the back layer. You’ll get a triangle shape.

Slowly pull the top parts outwards and you have your paper boat!

More cool origami for kids you can try:

We’ve had a lot of fun creating this shark fortune teller – it’s fun to make and even more fun to play with. You should also give these origami frogs a try!

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Make a paper boat

Explore a creek or stream by setting sail! With nothing more than some paper and a few folding tricks you can make your own vessel to investigate the water's currents. Text adapted from the Nat Geo Kids book Get Outside Guide by Nancy Honovich  and Julie Beer.

Take a piece of paper and place it in front of you with the shorter side at the top. Fold the paper in half from top to bottom.

Fold left to right to find the center and reopen. Bring the top two corners together to the middle, forming a point, and crease.

Fold the top flap at the bottom of the paper up; turn over and fold the other flap up. Fold the triangle tabs in over each other so you have a triangle.

Pop open the center like a hat, push the pointed sides to meet, and crease down so that you now have a square.

With the opening facing you, fold the top layer up to meet the other point. Turn the paper over and repeat.

Gently pull apart the top two points while pushing out with your fingers to form the bottom of the boat. Reinforce corners with clear tape, and also tape around the bottom to keep your boat dry. Now you're ready to launch your craft!

Read this next!

Craft corner, (ad) make this, (ad) get outside guide, (ad) nat geo kids cookbook: a year-round fun food adventure.

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How to Make a Boat from Paper

Learn how to make a boat from paper with this tutorial. Paper crafts for kids are hands-on and engaging, plus it is time off screens–bonus!

Looking for a simple art project to keep your children creatively engaged and busy? Help them make paper boats! It’s one of the best paper crafts out there. Paper boats are enjoyable, entertaining, and super easy to make. You can start the activity with just cardboard, scrap paper, and glue. No need to shop for expensive materials, just use whatever colors you have around the house (check your recycle bin!).

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Tips for making paper crafts with kids

Let your child lead as much as possible.

Let your child read the instructions and figure them out. It’s amazing to see our little ones take ownership over these creative activities and be in charge of the entire process. Just in case he doesn’t know what to do or gets confused with the steps, help him. Do the folds and cut outs and then ask her “Is this correct? What do you think?” 

Teach your child that making mistakes is not the result of a bad work process

Creating paper crafts like paper boats is amazing since it can teach kids the importance of patience and self-control. Chances are, our kids may walk away in frustration if things don’t go as expected. Tell them it’s fine, and that creating mistakes means their creative process is getting better and better! 

Keep trying

Paper crafts provide some of the best creative learning activities for our children. It helps them express their emotions, improve their motor skills and enhance their ability to follow instructions. Even if your child wants to be an engineer when she grows up, she can benefit from these craft activities.

Paper Boats are Awesome

Just like other crafts, it involves a variety of steps, from cutting, twisting, and gluing things to decorating and manipulating other items. These steps allow children to express themselves through art and improve dexterity skills. It also introduces the idea of having a vision and goal and working hard to achieve them.  

Once your kids have mastered a simple paper boat, they can explore the concepts of density, balance, and buoyancy and experiment with other boat sizes and paper types. 

Challenge children to think of many ways to make their boats travel faster. Creating paper boats is not as simple as you think. The possibilities are endless and the science behind boat playtime is fascinating! 

Making a Boat from Paper

Supplies needed.

• Colored craft papers (thin)
• Cardstock paper (thick)
• Template for boat pieces

Instructions for Making a Paper Boat

Select a colored cardstock paper for the boat, cockpit and mast patterns. Select colored craft papers for the sails and flag craft. Trace the template patterns and cut them out nicely.  

Fold and make creases along the yellow marked lines of the cockpit bench, the backside pattern and the side patterns of the boat. Use scissors to cut slits along the thin folded parts of the side patterns; keep 1 or 2 cm gap between the slits. 

Apply glue along the thin folded parts of the backside and side patterns of the boat. 

Grab the bottom pattern of the boat and any one of the side patterns. Attach the thin folded, glued part (tabs) of the side pattern along the side of the boat’s bottom pattern. 

Similarly, attach the other side of the boat. 

Join the 2 sides together on their front side. Attach the backside of the boat by gluing the bottom tab with the boat base and the side tabs with the side patterns of the boat. 

Take the cockpit bench pattern and fold along the yellow marked lines. 

Place and glue the bench inside the boat. Cut and thin layer of paper and attach it around the outer surface of the boat. 

Take the mast, sails and the flag patterns. 

Attach the sail patterns on both sides of the mast cutout and attach the flag pattern on the top side of the mast cutout. 

Cut a small strip from a cardstock paper and align it with the mast from the bottom side. Keep the bottom half of the strip free and glue the top half of the strip with the mast. Fold the bottom half of the strip outwards and then fold the bottom part of the mast to the opposite direction.  

Apply glue on the bottom side of the folded strip and mast part. Place it in the middle of the cockpit bench. You can craft a small safety ring from colored craft papers and attach it with the paper boat. 

Will this paper boat float?

Unfortunately, this paper boat will not float. It is more of a “model” that you can use for decoration or light playing.

More boat craft projects

• How to make a paper boat bowl
• Easy cork boats
• Paper plate sailboat
• Floating pirate ship from recyclables

1 thought on “How to Make a Boat from Paper”

I am going to try this at a library school holiday program. I did a trial and found it to be quite difficult and fiddly using 180gsm paper. The mast was a bit floppy. I need to think about how to make it easier for children. I think it will require a lot of adult assistance.

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How To Make An Origami Boat That Floats: A Step-By-Step Guide

Do you want to learn how to make an origami boat that floats? It’s actually a lot easier than you might think! In this step-by-step guide, I will show you how to do it.

All you need is a piece of paper and some patience. Follow these simple instructions and you’ll be able to create your own floating origami boat in no time!

How To Make An Origami Boat That Floats Video Walkthrough

There you have it, that short video tutorial should be an easy and fun way for you to learn how to make an origami boat that floats! So what are you waiting for? Get out your paper and give it a try!

I’m not done yet though! If you prefer learning a different way and videos aren’t your thing, don’t worry! I have written out step-by-step instructions with images for you below.

If you enjoy this design, make sure to check out all my other Origami Vehicles !

How To Make An Origami Boat That Floats Step-By-Step Instructions

1. creating horizontal and vertical creases.

Fold in half horizontally and vertically. Then fold back to make crease.

2. Folding Diagonal Creases and Turning Over

Fold in the dotted lines and fold back to make crease. Then turn over.

3. Folding Flaps Toward the Top

Fold in the dotted lines as directed by the arrow such that the flap is towards the top. Do that for the left and right diagonal.

4. Bringing Flaps Downward

Bring the flap downward towards the center.

5. Creating Center Creases

Fold the right and left diagonal towards the center and unfold to make crease.

6. Folding and Unfolding Flaps

Fold the two flaps in the dotted lines and unfold to make crease.

7. Opening the Origami Model

Open the model.

8. Performing a Squash Fold

Squash fold.

9. Executing a Pocket Fold

Pocket fold.

10. Folding and Unfolding for Creases

Fold in the dotted line and unfold to make crease.

11. Bringing Flaps Toward the Center

Fold in the dotted line and bring the two flaps toward the center.

12. Completing the Pocket Fold

Pocket fold in the dotted lines.

13. Admiring the Final Result

Congratulations! You have successfully completed the origami project. Enjoy your final result!

There you go! If you enjoy instructions more than videos I hope that these were simple and easy to follow! Bellow you’ll find the same instructions but in one large printable graphic!

How to Make an Origami Boat That Floats Printable Instructions

Now that I’ve shown how to make an origami boat, there are many other incredible origami creations you can make! Check out some of my other how-to origami guides to learn how to make a variety of different objects, animals, and more! I hope that you enjoyed this how-to guide and that you’ll continue exploring the wonderful world of origami!

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Check out my other origami designs and sharpen your paper folding skills!

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