Here’s how to fold a crane-shaped lucky envelope with a gift tag.
You can fold both the crane and the gift tag using a single sheet of origami paper.
What is Noshi? Noshi is a traditional Japanese decorative element attached to gifts for formal and celebratory occasions. Originally, it was made from thinly sliced and dried abalone (awabi), which was considered a symbol of longevity and good fortune because of its durability.
Today, while we often use paper versions or printed designs, the spirit remains the same: it is a way to express the giver’s sincere wishes for the recipient’s long life and happiness.
Folding Instructions
I folded it using origami paper that is red on one side and yellow on the other.
In this case, the envelope has a yellow background.
First, fold it in half vertically to form a triangle.
If you open it up, fold it in half horizontally, and mark only the center, it will fold neatly.
Next, fold the left and right sides toward the center and flip it over.
Next, fold one side along the center line.
When doing this, do not crease
the triangle that is on the bottom.
Fold the other side in the same way.
Making a gift tag
Now, let’s align the triangle on the right with the one on the left.
Once you’ve aligned them, fold only the top triangle in half toward the center line.
Next, align the red sides and fold it in half.
Once folded, fold it over to the right.
Fold it in half again.
Then half of the noshi appeared.
Fold the left half over to the right side and fold it in the same way.
Next, fold the star-shaped mark onto the other star-shaped mark.
Folding a crane
Now let’s fold it into a cross.
Fold it left and right to form a cross.
Next, fold it so that the red line is on the inside.
A square for making a crane has appeared.
Fold the left and right sides toward the center.
Once you’ve made the creases, open it up.
Then, as you fold it upward, align the left and right sides.
Then, fold the right side over to the left to form the neck.
Pull the neck down to create an angle.
Then fold the beak.
Fold the top part back.
Here are the finished gift envelopes featuring a noshi and a crane.
I tried using chiyogami and gold origami paper.
The cranes with the decorative ribbons look really nice.
Watch a video tutorial on how to fold it
You can watch a video tutorial on Instagram.
On Pinterest, we show you how to fold it in a video.
In Conclusion
How to Use Noshi in Your Daily Life You don’t need a formal Japanese ceremony to use Noshi! Here are some creative ways to incorporate this beautiful tradition into your gift-giving:
- For Special Celebrations: Attach a handcrafted origami Noshi to wedding gifts or birthday presents to add a touch of Japanese elegance.
- A Symbol of Sincerity: Use it when you want to show extra respect or gratitude. It tells the recipient, “This gift is special to me.”
- Modern Stationery: You can use Noshi-inspired designs on handmade cards or envelopes to create a unique, “East-meets-West” aesthetic.