Making a paper fortune teller is a fun and nostalgic activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Also known as a cootie catcher or chatterbox, this simple origami craft involves folding a piece of paper into a playful fortune-telling device that can be customized with various colors, designs, and fortunes. To create your own paper fortune teller, follow these step-by-step instructions, and let your creativity soar as you personalize it with messages and decorations.
Choose Your Paper
Start by selecting a square piece of paper for your fortune teller. You can use standard origami paper, colored construction paper, or any other lightweight paper of your choice. Experiment with different colors and patterns to create a unique and eye-catching design for your fortune teller.
Fold the Paper in Half Diagonally
Fold the square piece of paper in half diagonally to form a triangle. Crease the fold firmly to create a sharp, well-defined edge. Then, unfold the paper and lay it flat on your work surface with the crease facing upward.
Fold the Corners to the Center
Fold each of the four corners of the triangle inward toward the center point, creating a smaller triangle shape. Align the edges carefully to ensure that the folds are neat and symmetrical. Crease the folds firmly to hold them in place.
Flip the Paper Over
Flip the paper over so that the folded flaps are facing downward. You should now have a triangle shape with four flaps or pockets on the underside. Take a moment to smooth out any wrinkles or uneven creases to ensure that your fortune teller folds smoothly.
Fold the Corners to the Center Again
Repeat the previous step by folding each of the four corners of the triangle inward toward the center point. This will create an even smaller triangle shape with eight flaps or pockets. Make sure to crease the folds firmly for a secure hold.
Write Numbers on the Flaps
Open up the fortune teller and use a pen or marker to write the numbers 1 through 8 on the visible flaps. Write one number on each flap, making sure to space them out evenly around the perimeter of the triangle. These numbers will correspond to the choices that players will make when using the fortune teller.
Write Fortunes or Messages Underneath
Underneath each numbered flap, write a fortune, message, or action that corresponds to the number above it. Get creative with your fortunes, offering predictions, advice, or silly prompts for players to follow. You can also include images, symbols, or doodles to add visual interest to your fortune teller.
Fold the Fortune Teller in Half
Fold the fortune teller in half vertically, bringing the top point down to meet the bottom point. Crease the fold firmly to create a sharp, well-defined edge. You should now have a smaller triangle shape with four flaps or pockets on the outside.
Insert Your Fingers
Insert your thumbs and index fingers into the four pockets of the fortune teller, with your fingers resting on the underside of the flaps. Gently pinch the corners of the fortune teller together to create a snug fit around your fingers. Your fortune teller is now ready to use!
Play with Your Fortune Teller
To use the fortune teller, invite a friend or family member to pick a number from the visible flaps on the outside. Spell out the chosen number while moving the fortune teller back and forth, alternating between horizontal and vertical movements for each letter. Then, ask the player to choose a number from the new set of visible flaps revealed underneath.
Reveal the Fortune
Count aloud the number of times corresponding to the chosen number, opening and closing the fortune teller with each count. Once you reach the selected number, pause and lift the flap to reveal the fortune or message written underneath. Read the fortune aloud to the player and encourage them to follow the instructions or predictions provided.
Customize and Decorate
Get creative with your paper fortune teller by customizing it with colors, designs, and themes that reflect your personality or interests. Use markers, stickers, glitter, or washi tape to decorate the outside of the fortune teller and add visual flair. You can also incorporate themes such as holidays, seasons, or special occasions to make your fortune teller even more festive and engaging.
Share with Others
Once you've finished making your paper fortune teller, share it with friends, family, or classmates and enjoy hours of entertainment together. Encourage others to make their own fortune tellers and exchange fortunes or play games using multiple fortune tellers. Paper fortune tellers make great party favors, classroom activities, or boredom busters for rainy days.
Experiment with Different Designs
Don't be afraid to experiment with different folding techniques and designs to create unique and inventive fortune tellers. Try using larger or smaller squares of paper, adjusting the number of folds, or incorporating additional flaps to customize the size and shape of your fortune teller. The possibilities are endless, so let your imagination run wild!
Have Fun and Be Creative
Above all, have fun and embrace your creativity as you make and play with your paper fortune teller. Whether you're predicting the future, sharing words of wisdom, or simply goofing around with friends, the joy of crafting and using a fortune teller lies in the imaginative and playful experiences it inspires. So gather your materials, unleash your inner artist, and let the fortunes unfold!