I’m excited to show you how to fold a two-tone crane using just one sheet of paper.
With only a tiny bit of extra effort, you can create a striking bi-color effect.
There are three simple variations you can try. When I first discovered this technique, I was amazed that such a simple method could create such a dramatic look.
This is exactly why origami is so endlessly fascinating!
Folding Instructions
Pattern 1
The first one is this crane, with different colors on the left and right sides.
First, fold the top corner down.
Next, fold the bottom corner toward the back.
Fold the left triangle to the right.
Then, fold the top triangle down.
Next, unfold it into a square.
This is what it looks like from below after unfolding.
Make a crease and open it up.
You’ll see that it’s divided into two equal halves.
Finally, fold it into a basic paper crane, and you’re done.
Pattern 2
The second one is a method for folding a crane with different colors on the front and back.
First, fold the top corner down.
Next, fold the bottom corner toward the back.
We’ll fold this smaller square into a crane.
Fold it upward, then bring the left triangle over to the right.
Then unfold it into a square.
This is what it looks like from below after unfolding.
Make a crease and open it up.
You’ll see that it’s divided into two halves, top and bottom.
Finally, fold it into a basic paper crane, and you’re done.
Pattern 3
Finally, here’s how to fold a two-color crane using the opposite corner.
First, fold the top and bottom corners toward the center.
Next, fold the left and right corners toward the back.
Unlike previous folding methods,
you can fold this one without worrying about the orientation.
From here on, just fold it the same way as a basic origami crane.
The color scheme will look like this along the way.
That extra step for a polished finish
If you secure it with double-sided tape, it will fold neatly.
Both sides are covered.
Displaying a two-colored crane
Watch a video tutorial on how to fold it
On Pinterest, we show you how to fold it in a video.
In Conclusion
I hope you enjoy the process of folding as much as the finished piece.
Don’t worry if it’s not perfect at first—every fold is a step toward your own unique creation.
Happy folding!