Crafting a Folded Paper Bowl: A Step-by-Step Guide

Figuring out how to make a folded paper bowl is something that comes in handy when you have things to store and no containers in site. This bowl, shaped like a box, has "handles" on two sides, making it easy for gripping.

Begin with a rectangular shaped piece of paper and fold it in half.

Fold the paper in half again, this time vertically.

Unfold the previous fold and turn the paper so it matches the one in the photo at the left.

Fold each top corner into the center line and crease firmly.

Unfold the left corner and open up the fold, bringing it out to the edges, as seen in the photo at the left.

This is what Step 5 looks like when complete.

Go back to the side of the figure that still has the folded top right corner, and unfold it. Open it up and pull it to line up the left side of the paper edges, similar to Step 5.

The photo at the left depicts what your figure should look like at this point in the tutorial.

Fold both of the bottom points into the center fold line. Flip the figure over and do the same on the other side.

Fold the bottom up to the line made by the two side folds, about halfway.

Fold the bottom up again, this time so it covers the bottom part of the "v" made by previous folds and repeat on the opposite side.

Stand the figure up on the pointed end so that the opening is facing up. Open the top up, using your fingers hold the sides open.

Spread the bottom of the bowl out, making the corners sharp so that it lays flat.

The bowl is now complete and you have learned how to make a folded paper bowl. Fill it with small items, or make several in decorative patterns for displaying on a mantel or bookshelf.

If you want to make another container, view this slideshow on how to fold paper into the shape of a flowerpot.