Folding banknotes is a creative form of origami that combines traditional Japanese folding art with a practical gift idea. A folded money penguin is a particularly original variation. This money gift technique is becoming increasingly popular because it combines the best of both worlds: the recipient can later buy something nice for themselves, and you still show your creative and personal touch when giving gifts.

There are many occasions where a money gift is just right: for students who have passed an exam and want to buy new books, for couples getting married who are saving for their dream trip, or for school leavers who need to equip themselves for the start of their professional life. Sometimes you just know that the recipient is saving for something specific - then a creatively folded money penguin is the perfect blend of a personal gesture and a practical gift.

Folding Money Penguin: Instructions with Photos

With our illustrated instructions, we show you every folding step. The video at the beginning of the article helps you keep track. The photos in the instructions then show each individual step. You are guaranteed to succeed in folding your first money penguin!

Tip: If you have no experience in folding banknotes, practice first. You have two options: Cut paper to the size of banknotes or get play money to practice. As with origami, working carefully produces better results than folding quickly.

Your Money Penguin is Ready - Creative Presentation Ideas

Great that you folded a penguin from a banknote! For the presentation, you have many options: Put it in a transparent gift box with wintry decorations, place it on a nice card, or position it on blue and white wrapping paper. Since these are real banknotes, make sure they stay dry and clean.

Feeling like more folding ideas? On our portal, you can find over 100 free origami instructions for all levels of difficulty. Specifically on the topic of folding banknotes, we have more than 30 creative tutorials - from simple hearts to elaborate animal shapes. Look around and discover your next folding project!