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Learn how to fold a basic origami corner bookmark using just one sheet of paper. I’ll also show you how to turn these basic shapes into cute monsters that kids and adults will love.

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What is Origami

Paper folding is a relaxing and fun craft. It’s a simple process that doesn’t require any glue or special machines and can produce beautiful works of art. These corner bookmarks are a simple way to get started with origami.

Origami simply means the art of paper folding. The craft has Japanese roots but today it is used to describe a wide variety of international paper folding techniques.

These folds can be simple, like this bookmark, or the classic swan we’ve all seen. They can also be intricate and complex, projects that require years of practice and patience.

Learn more basic origami here 10 simple origami projects for beginners from The Spruce Crafts.

We won’t go too far into origami today, this is just a beginner lesson. Let’s start by learning how to fold a simple corner bookmark.

How to Make a Corner Bookmark

Be sure to watch the full video to see how these are made.

Supplies

You will need the following craft supplies for this project. Only paper is required to make the bookmarks, the other supplies are to create the monsters.

• Colorful paper
• Scissors
• Paper cutter
• 1 inch circle hole punch
• Ruler
• Tape runner
• Glue
• Googly eyes
• Sharpies

Start with one piece of colorful paper and cut it to a 6×6 inch square. Using a paper cutter will ensure straight lines and a perfect square. Next, follow the folds below. The best way to see this in action is to watch the video and copy the folds.

The paper should be thin copy or printer paper, nothing too thick like cardstock. You can also use origami paper which is very easy to fold and comes in a variety of colors and patterns. This box of paper will last a long time and inspire you to create all kinds of projects.

I chose colored copy paper and it works well for this beginner origami project.

1. Cut a piece of colored paper into a 6×6 inch square.
2. Fold in half diagonally.
3. Fold the right corner of the triangle over to meet the bottom corner.
4. Repeat with the other side to form a square.
5. Unfold steps 3 and 4 leaving a triangle.
6. Fold 1 half of the bottom corner up to meet the top edge.
7. Fold the right corner in to meet the top corner.
8. Repeat with the left side.
9. Unfold steps 7 and 8.
10. Using the crease, fold the right corner down and tuck under the flap. Repeat with the left side.

That’s it, a lovely corner bookmark! You can replicate the steps above using other colors of paper. From here you can decorate your bookmark any way you want.

I have made unicorn bookmarks in the past. My kids love them so much I decided to create a set of cute monsters that they can use and give to friends.

Create a Monster Bookmark

For each monster, use the other supplies in the list to create scary but cute faces. Googly eyes, toothy smiles, and fringed hair are all good ideas.

Use some colorful Sharpies to draw big or scary eyes. Cut jagged teeth from white paper and glue a strip to the inside of the mouth. Or change it up and make a happy character with bright eyes and funny hair.

The options for customizing these corner bookmarks are endless, let your creativity take the lead and encourage kids to do the same.

These bookmarks are so easy to use. Just slide them over the corner of a page to mark your spot. The cute design you create will stick out of the book.

These monsters make a fun craft for a class or school group like Girl Scouts. Gather kids together and let them get creative with their designs. The monsters also work as non-candy Halloween treats.

If you like this project, be sure to pin it.

How would you decorate a corner bookmark?

Thanks for visiting!

Looking for more paper crafts? Click on the photos below for more inspiration.

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