Bug Origami for Kids

When a child thinks about bugs, the common housefly is likely one of the first images to come to mind. Making a paper fly is a fun and easy origami project that a child can complete with minimal adult assistance.

This project is based on a model from the Amateur Entomologists' Society. To begin, fold a square sheet of paper in half to form a triangle. Paper that is brown or gray on one side is the best choice for this project.

Fold the bottom corners up to make a diamond shape.

Bring the top of the diamond down on each side. These points will eventually become the wings of your origami bug.

Fold the upper layer of the top triangle down, and then fold the second layer to a point just above the first.

Flip the paper over and bring the edges of the wing portion of your model behind the body. Crease firmly.

A fly has six legs, a head, thorax, and an abdomen. You can make your fly look more realistic by drawing a pattern on his wings with a marker and adding eyes. If desired, you can attach legs by bending three paper clips and taping them to the bottom of the model.

If you enjoyed this project, Cat Origami for Kids has instructions for another easy origami animal for children to make.