Are you looking for a fun activity for indoors or outdoors? Then folding paper boats is just the thing! When we think back to origami in our childhood, two figures immediately spring to mind: the paper airplane and the paper boat. No other origami figure is as closely associated with our childhood memories as these two classics.
Today, I'm going to show you 5 different ways to fold a beautiful boat from a simple sheet of paper. From super simple to a little trickier, there's something for everyone.
Table of contents
Folding a boat out of paper - the absolute classic
This boat is the absolute classic among paper boats! With just a few folding steps, you can create a stable boat that actually floats. It is usually the first origami we learn as children - alongside the classic paper airplane, of course.
Follow the link to the complete classic paper boat folding instructions with photos and a detailed description. A perfect project for beginners!
Folding a ship out of paper - the sports boat
This dynamic model looks like a sleek motorboat! Folding it is a little more challenging than the classic boat, but the result is really impressive. With its sharp lines and sporty shape, it is reminiscent of a real racing boat.
Follow the link to the complete sports boat folding instructions with photos and detailed description. This boat is the perfect choice if you're looking for something special!
Folding a boat with paper - the rowing boat
This model is particularly charming because it looks exactly like a classic rowing boat! Although it doesn't have real oars, of course, you can easily make them from additional paper. The shape is perfect and corresponds exactly to how we imagine a traditional rowing boat.
Follow the link to the full rowing boat folding instructions with photos and a detailed description. Take a virtual trip on the lake with this boat!
Ship folding paper - The Asian roof boat
This interesting variation is reminiscent of the traditional roofed boats you see on the rivers of Asia. The folded roof makes this boat particularly characteristic and protects it from rain and sun in reality. Although it looks a little more complex, the folding is surprisingly easy to master.
Follow the link to the complete roof boat folding instructions with photos and a detailed description. An exciting alternative to the classic models!
Folding a ship with paper - the sailing boat for the little ones
This model is perfect for our youngest hobbyists aged 5 and over. Unlike the other boats, it is not three-dimensional, but flat like a silhouette. This not only makes it particularly easy to fold, but also offers a great opportunity for creative design - the large surface can be wonderfully painted and decorated!
Follow the link to the full sailboat folding instructions with photos and a detailed description. The ideal introduction to paper ship folding for children!
Conclusion: More exciting folding instructions are waiting for you!
These were our top 5 paper ships to make. Each one has its own character and makes folding a special experience. But that's not all! If you fancy more crafting fun, be sure to take a look at our complete origami collection.
Our section with paper airplane instructions is also particularly exciting - because as we know, paper ships and paper airplanes are the two most popular origami classics of our childhood!