Making a paper helicopter – rotating rotor blades made of paper

It doesn't take much to excite children – sometimes a sheet of paper is enough. With this simple guide, you can craft a small Papier-Helikopter that actually spins while falling – just like a real helicopter!

The idea behind it is simple: two narrow rotor blades at the top are slightly twisted against each other, so that the air resistance sets them in motion when they fall. The effect is astonishing and definitely ensures bright eyes.

This project is perfect for crafting sessions at home, in school, or at birthday parties. And the best part: you only need scissors and paper.

Before you get started, watch our video – it shows you exactly how it's done:

Instructions: How to make the Papier-Helikopter

📦 Materials:

  • 1 sheet of paper (preferably DIN A4 or A5)
  • 1 pair of scissors
  • possibly a ruler for tracing
Instructions: This is how you craft the paper helicopter. The picture 1
Step 1: Place the sheet horizontally and cut off a 10 cm wide strip. We will work with this strip.
Instructions: This is how to make the paper helicopter. The picture 2
Step 2: Fold it horizontally and vertically. Then fold it in the middle to cut out the center part.
Instructions: This is how you craft the paper helicopter. The picture 3
Step 3: Make two more cuts to fold the two lower sides towards the center. Then fold the wings and you’re done!

Now all you need is an elevated spot – for example, a chair – and you can let your helicopter fly. It spins automatically while falling!

Why this crafting idea is so popular

This little DIY idea combines fun, movement, and a bit of science. Children learn something about air resistance and rotational movement without it feeling like learning. At the same time, cutting and folding promotes fine motor skills and concentration.

Since the helicopter is so easy to make, children can also recreate it on their own and experiment – for example, with differently sized wings, different types of paper, or small weights.

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Discover more at TutKit.com

Thank you for taking the time for this crafting idea! If you liked the spinning paper heli, you're sure to love our other projects. We have over 400 creative guides for every age – and new ones are added every week.

🟢 For example, check out our DIY ideas for kids – there you will find many more folding projects, paper airplanes, animals, and decorative ideas to craft.

🟢 Or are you looking for creative ways to wrap money gifts? Then our section Money gifts wedding is just right for you – there we show you how to fold and present banknotes in an original way.

Have fun crafting and see you soon!

Published on by Vitalii Shynakov
Published on:
From Vitalii Shynakov
Vitalii Shynakov has been working in the areas of online retail, marketing and customer satisfaction since 2012. Until 2022, he was the head of personnel development and online sales department of four successful stores. He has been part of the TutKit.com team since 2024.