MDL0077 - ORIGAMI - DISPLAY BOXES (3 VARIATIONS)

Text-Only Instructions

Credits and Resources:

These models are likely to be traditional models.

If you are aware of any other source where these models or similar might be listed, please let me know so I can reference them under this heading.

Paper to be used: Square, any size; thicker paper or thin cardstock is strongly recommended.

Alternatively, good quality origami paper may be used, since, for these types of models, you will be relying more than usual on the paper to be able to keep its shape once folded.

Folding level: Easy/Beginner

Steps: 10

Description: These boxes have been named "Display Boxes" since they are not as sturdy as some other types of boxes.

They do have a delicate appearance though, with color variation on the corners. All 3 variations could be placed side by side to make a very pleasing display.

They have  fairly high sides but are also quite flimsy since the corners are not strong and the sides are only one layer thick. 

The first variation has a star or flower-like appearance, with the points remaining unfolded.

The last two variations have their points folded either to the inside or the outside, thus drawing the focus to the corners, especially if you are using paper with a different color on each side.

NOTE: All models start from the Blintz Base. Fold from Step 1 to 9, then go to either Variation 1, 2 or 3. 

You can also learn about the Blintz and other origami bases at the following link:

Most Used Origami Bases


Blintz Base and pre-folds for all variations

Step 1

Place a square down with its edges to the left and right, top and bottom.

Step 2

Fold the left edge over to meet the right edge. Crease and unfold.

Step 3

Fold the top edge down to meet the bottom edge. Crease and unfold.

Step 4

Make the blintz fold by using the method you prefer to fold all four corners in to meet at the center of the square.

When pressed flat, you should end up with a smaller square-shaped model divided into 4 triangles.

Make sure that, as far as possible, all outside corners are folded neatly at a 90 degree angle and that the crease lines all lie straight and meet precisely in the center of the square.

Step 5

After creasing well, unfold all the way so you have the square you started with.

Step 6

Fold both the top and bottom edges in to meet each other on the horizontal center line. Crease and unfold.

Step 7

Fold the left and right edges in to meet each other on the vertical center line. Crease and unfold.

Your square will now have 2 diagonal lines as well as 2 creases running from left to right and another 2 running up and down.

Step 8

Pinch each corner of the square outwards so it looks like a petal, while lifting the sides up at the same time, following the folds you have created previously.

Step 9

Starting from the bottom on each corner, reinforce the triangles by folding them in both directions or to the left and right. When making these folds, the triangles should be aligned with the top edge on each side.

Step 10

Display Box (Variation 1)

Simply leave each corner point of the box as is. The model will not be very secure, but it will have a delicate appearance.

Display Box (Variation 2)

For each corner, fold the point in half toward the inside of the model.

Pinch the folds together to reinforce the corners.

Display Box (Variation 3)

For each corner, fold the point in half toward the outside of the model.

Pinch the folds together to reinforce the corners.

Making origami accessible to visually impaired crafters through text instructions.

for non-commercial use only.

Compiled by Lindy van der Merwe, November 2009

Revised: January 2023

Comments