Want to add a touch of fun and mystery to your next gathering? A fortune teller, also known as a cootie catcher, is a simple paper craft that's both entertaining and easy to make. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can create your own personalized fortune teller in minutes!
Materials You'll Need:
- A square piece of paper: Any size will work, but larger squares (8.5 x 11 inches folded down) make for easier folding and writing. You can use colorful paper, decorative paper, or even construction paper for a more vibrant look.
- Pen or marker: Choose a color that contrasts with your paper for easy readability.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Creating the Base
- Fold in half: Fold your square piece of paper in half diagonally, crease it sharply, and then unfold it.
- Fold again: Fold the paper in half diagonally the other way, creasing sharply and unfolding. You should now have an "X" shape of creases on your paper.
- Fold into quarters: Fold the paper in half, then in half again, so you have a smaller square.
Step 2: The First Set of Flaps
- Open the square: Carefully open up your smaller square. You will now have an "X" crease line, dividing the paper into four triangles.
- Fold the corners: Bring each corner of the square into the center, aligning the edges. Crease each flap firmly as you go.
Step 3: The Second Set of Flaps
- Turn it over: Flip the paper over.
- Fold the corners again: Repeat Step 2, bringing each corner into the center and creasing firmly. You’ll now have a smaller square with multiple layers.
Step 4: Adding Your Fortunes
- Open the flaps: Open one of the larger flaps. You'll see a smaller square inside. Write a color, number, or simple word on each of the eight triangles visible on the inside.
- Fill the squares: On each of the four inner squares, write a fortune, a dare, or a fun fact. Be creative!
Step 5: Playing the Fortune Teller
- Open and Close: Have a friend choose a color, or number, etc., that you've written on the outer triangles. They'll open and close the fortune teller accordingly.
- Reveal the Fortune: After following the instructions on the outer triangles, the final inner square will reveal the secret fortune, dare or fact!
Tips for Extra Fun:
- Thematic Fortunes: Create a themed fortune teller! Choose a holiday, movie, or book and base your fortunes on that theme.
- Decorate it!: Add stickers, glitter, or drawings to personalize your fortune teller.
- Make Multiple: Challenge your friends to a fortune teller competition by making several.
Now you're ready to create your own fortune teller and share the fun! Enjoy!
