DIY Origami Gift Box Paper Craft

Updated on 08/10/20

Project Overview

Total Time: 1 hr

Skill Level: Beginner

There may be times when you want to give someone a quick gift and do not have a box or gift bag on hand. No need to worry! This nifty origami box is easy to make, beautiful and quite versatile. All you need are two sheets of any square paper. I prefer cardstock or scrapbook paper, but you can use wrapping paper, kraft paper, butcher wrap, parchment paper or even newspaper and still get good results. No glue or tape is necessary for construction. Isn't that fabulous? You will be able to make handy containers in minutes!

The origami boxes (as seen in the photo above) were made with 12 x 12 scrapbook paper which produces a 4.25" x 4.25" box. Use smaller or larger sized paper to adjust the size of the box and lid.
It takes less than five minutes to fold the top and bottom pieces of the gift box. Add some cute ribbon, a purchased or handmade package topper, a gift tag and the present is good to go. You will never be caught short when wrapping a gift. So easy! So cute!

Tip

Always use a bone folder to flatten each crease. It will produce a much sharper edge.

Equipment / Tools

Bone folder
Purchased or handmade gift topper (optional)

Materials

2 sheets 12x12-inch scrapbook paper or cardstock
Ribbon (optional)
Gift tags (optional)

Make the Gift Box

Start with a 12-inch x 12-inch sheet of paper. Fold the paper in half and then in half again. Unfold the paper and lay flat.

Rotate the folded square 90 degrees clockwise. There should be an 'X' in the middle. Fold the right edge toward the center. Fold the left edge toward the center. Unfold the creases and flatten the paper.

Rotate the folded square 90 degrees clockwise. There should be an 'X' in the middle. Fold the right edge toward the center. Fold the left edge toward the center. Unfold the creases and flatten the paper.

Fold the top edge towards the center, then fold the bottom edge toward the center. Unfold the creases and flatten the paper.

Turn the paper so that there is a corner on the top. Pull the top corner flap open. Pull the bottom flap open.

Pinch in the top right and left corners to form the top and side walls of the box.

Fold the flap over and into the center of the box.

Repeat these steps with the bottom corner.

How to Make an Origami Box Bottom Rita Shehan
Make the Gift Box Top

The top of the box is made exactly as the bottom except with a couple of exceptions. Rather than making the crease at the exact center. Leave 1/8" on either side when folding. There should be enough room for the top of the box to rest on the bottom portion of the box.

Origami Box Top Folding Tips Rita Shehan

Tip

Following the diagrams may be difficult for some. This YouTube video will provide additional visual instruction.
Add the Finishing Touches

You will now have a finished top and bottom section. Place your gift in the box and add some embellishments.You can add gifts tags, handmade, or store bought paper flowers and ribbon. Get creative! Your gift box will be as pretty on the outside as your gift is on the inside!

Use these boxes for other purposes such as:
- Craft Storage Boxes
- Mini Jewelry boxes
- Paperclip and other office supply storage
- Candy boxes
- School Party Treat Packs
- A place to keep special letters and mementos
- Dresser drawer storage containers.
You will like this little boxes so much that you will want to make some extras just to keep on hand for those times when you need to give a small token to someone. This craft is a good way to use up all those odd pieces of paper that you have leftover from other craft projects. A good way to recycle your odds and ends!

Rita Shehan