Learn how to make an origami lotus flower in just one evening!

Learn how to make an origami lotus flower in just one evening!

The lotus flower symbolises enlightenment, purity and prosperity. You can make your own origami version with our easy to follow, step-by-step tutorial with pictures.

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Holly Spanner

Learn how to make an origami lotus flower in just one evening!

Transform a simple sheet of paper into a traditional symbol of purity and enlightenment with our fantastic origami lotus tutorial. It’s a quick and easy project, and once complete, will produce a sturdy model that will even float on water (depending on the paper you use).

In this tutorial, we’ll teach you all the folds and techniques needed so you can become a pro in no time. The model can get a bit fiddly towards the end, but by going slow and ‘teasing’ the paper into shape, you’ll be able to create your own stunning origami lotus bloom.

Once your origami lotus is complete, curl the edges of the petals outwards to give it a little extra pizazz. And for even more tinkering, why not cut a fringe from yellow paper and roll it up to create a stamen in the middle?

Discover more origami fun here on Gathered:

This origami lotus flower is a great little project, and once you’ve gotten the hang of pulling the petals forward, is one that produces impressive results.

Whether you’re a beginner or just in need of a refresher, join us as we unfold the secrets behind creating this traditional origami model of a lotus flower.

How to make an origami lotus flower step-by-step

How to make an origami lotus
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Step 1

Start with a square piece of paper. Dedicated origami paper works best for this origami lotus, because once you progress with the model it gets harder to fold, so it helps if the paper is thinner.

Lotus flowers are usually pink, but have fun experimenting with different colours and patterns – you could even add some glitter to the tips of the petals once complete!

How to make an origami lotus

In this tutorial, we are using 15x15cm paper that is patterned on one side and white on the other.

Start with the paper face down, then fold in half along the diagonals and unfold.

How to make an origami lotus, step 1

Step 2

Fold each of the four corners into the centre of the paper.

How to make an origami lotus, step 2a

Flatten the creases.

How to make an origami lotus, step 2b

Step 3

Without turning the model over, fold each of the four corners into the centre for a second time. 

How to make an origami lotus, step 3a

Flatten the creases.

How to make an origami lotus, step 3b

Step 4

For a third time, still without turning the model over, fold each of the four corners into the centre.

How to make an origami lotus, step 4a

Flatten the creases.

How to make an origami lotus, step 4b

Step 5

Turn the model over.

How to make an origami lotus, step 5

Step 6

For a fourth time, fold each of the corners into the centre. The model will be quite thick at this point, so you might find it tricky to fold the paper.

How to make an origami lotus, step 6a

If you have one to hand, a paper creaser (also called a bone folder) will be useful to help flatten the creases.

How to make an origami lotus, step 6b

Step 7

On each of the four corners, fold inwards a small amount. The paper will now be very difficult to fold, so a paper creaser will help at this point.

How to make an origami lotus, step 7

Don’t worry if the corners don’t look neat; they are there to help you with the next step and will be hidden once the model is complete.

Step 8

The next step is a little tricky, so go slow. Don’t be discouraged if the paper rips – it’s all part of the learning process.

With one hand, press down firmly on one of the corner tabs you made in step 7 (I use my thumb on my left hand). Then with the other hand, slowly pull the flap from behind to the front, to create a petal.

How to make an origami lotus, step 8a

You’re essentially turning the corner inside out. If you’re struggling to do this without ripping the paper, try opening the model slightly before pulling the petal forward.

How to make an origami lotus, step 8b

Step 9

Repeat step 8 on the other three corners.

How to make an origami lotus, step 9a

How to make an origami lotus, step 9b

Step 10

We’ve made four petals already, but the lotus has another four – making eight petals in total.

How to make an origami lotus, step 10a

Working on the sides now, gently pull the next set of petals from behind.

How to make an origami lotus, step 10b

You’ll notice that the lotus begins to take on a more rounded appearance at this point.

How to make an origami lotus, step 10c

Step 11

Repeat step 10 on the other three sides.

How to make an origami lotus, step 11a

There is one further set of petals, which you can fold out normally from the bottom if you like to form a flatter base. I’ve opted not to do this as I prefer the rounded, more natural look.

How to make an origami lotus, step 11b

Step 12

Finally, for a bit of extra pizazz, curl the petals outwards if you fancy. You can do this by rolling the edge of the paper with your fingers, or curling the edge of the paper around a cocktail stick.

How to make an origami lotus, step 12a

Congratulations! You’ve completed an origami lotus.

How to make an origami lotus, step 12b

Why not bookmark our origami page so you can quickly and easily access all the latest tutorials? We’re expanding our library all the time, and we’re confident you’ll find a project you love!

Embrace slow making with own origami lotus flower

This origami lotus flower is easy to make if you take your time following our step-by-step instructions.

Don’t worry if wrinkles appear along the crease lines, this is quite normal when you’re folding multiple layers at once. Once the model is finished, most of these wrinkles will be hidden inside the flower, so you won’t be able to see them. Any remaining wrinkles on the petals will help give your origami lotus character, so for this project - embrace the wrinkles!

When you’re shaping the petals and pulling them forward, it’s important to take your time and gently fettle the paper into shape. If you go too quickly, the paper will rip along the seam. But with a bit of practice, you’ll be able to pull the petals into position and you’ll be left with a very sturdy origami lotus flower.

If you’re keen to try out different origami models, we have lots more projects right here on Gathered, all with easy-to-follow instructions.

Discover more brilliant origami projects with Gathered

For more fun origami projects, we think you’ll love our origami bird tutorials. Each project has been carefully put together by our experts, and all feature our signature easy to follow instructions with step-by-step photos. Many also have an accompanying video, so you’ll be folding like a pro in no time.

Holly Spanner

Staff Writer, BBC Science Focus

Holly is the Staff Writer for BBC Science Focus and looks after the popular Q&A section. She holds an MSc (distinction) in Geoscience (Space and Climate Physics) from UCL, and specialises in astronomy and earth sciences. Before joining Our Media, she worked as a geoenvironmental consultant and engineer, informing on ground risk and remediation in the north of England, while hunting for exoplanets in her spare time. Alongside this, she was regional editor of a popular theatre website for nine years, and has a solid background in curating and developing content for the digital space. Holly is also an artist and illustrator, and regular contributor to the craft website, Gathered. She has previously worked with the RSPB, English Heritage, Disney, Pilot and Brother, as well as on BBC Good Food magazine, Home Style magazine, and Papercraft inspirations magazine. She enjoys photography and has a sustained interest in antiques.
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