Here’s how to fold a small gift envelope featuring a crane as the focal point.
A “pochi-bukuro” is a small envelope used for giving money as a gift.
In Japan, the crane is a sacred symbol of longevity and happiness.
By folding this elegant crane envelope, you are not just preparing a gift, but wrapping your heartfelt wishes in a centuries-old tradition.
How to Fold a Crane-Shaped Envelope
This time, we’ll be using scissors.
We will be creasing the paper
First, make a crease.
Make a crease as shown on the right.
yurariI think it’s easier if you fold it in half lengthwise and widthwise, then fold it into quarters along those creases.
Next, align the corner with the center, crease it, and fold it back.
Fold the left side.
Next, fold along the creases.
When you fold down the right side as well, a square will form.
We’ll use this square to make a crane.
Let’s fold a crane to serve as a focal point
Align the left and right corners of the small square with the center and crease them.
Open up this square and flatten it.
Then, fold both sides in half.
Push the paper to one side to make it easier to cut.
Next, make a slit at the bottom to form the neck and tail.
Fold up the neck and tail.
Next, fold the beak.
Now you have the main part of the crane.
Fold the left side.
Let’s make the wrapping part
Fold the left edge to the desired size.
It should be about 2 centimeters.
Then, open the left and top edges and refold the paper.
First, fold the left side, then fold the top.
yurariNow it’s time to wrap it up neatly and securely.
Now, fold it in half.
Fold it back to the halfway point of the crane.
Unfold it and refold it.
Unfold the left side and fold down the bottom part.
Fold the left side and unfold the right side.
Fold the bottom part again and bring the right side back.
Insert the top section into the folded edges at the bottom.
By the way, if you’re putting in New Year’s money or similar items, this is the time to do it.
Here is the finished gift envelope featuring a crane as the focal point.
Other crane-themed lucky envelopes
There are other lucky money envelopes featuring cranes as well.
This one is a tall, vertical crane-themed lucky money envelope.
This is a small envelope featuring a crane with a decorative ribbon.
On Pinterest, we show you how to fold it in a video.
Why not use Pochi-bukuro for your small gifts?
Although traditionally used for New Year’s money, these tiny envelopes are perfect for any occasion! You can use them to give a small thank-you note, a gift card, or even tiny accessories.
Using a handcrafted origami Pochi-bukuro adds a layer of “Omotenashi” (hospitality) that makes any small gesture feel truly special.