Five Favorite Folded Paper Crafts

Ahh, we've entered the dog days of winter when it snows and snows (as opposed to the typical hot and steamy dog days of summer, you understand). January dog days are the kind when it's nice to hunker down somewhere cozy and think warm thoughts.

 

Update: while some of these paper crafts are sadly no longer available, I'm keeping them in... a picture is worth a thousand words, right? Right.

my sweet grandpup, Otto

 

Perhaps while lazing about waiting for icy road conditions to improve, these paper craft projects will motivate you to plan a party - Valentine's Day is coming, so there's a goal.

Let's invite some guests... is there a more clever invitation than this pop-up house [no longer available] from Olive at Mr Printables? I don't think so!

A centerpiece on the buffet table is always nice. Kate from Kate's Creative Space made this simple/simply elegant altered book sculpture [no longer available] and brightened it immensely just by tucking in a couple of tulips. She wrapped the stems in damp paper towels to keep the blooms fresh for a few days. Contain the moisture with a bit of plastic wrap so the pages won't ripple before the party ends.

  
Riikka at Weekday Carnival shows how to make four folded books. If your guests are the crafty type - or even if they aren't - they might enjoy book folding as a party activity. You could even do a little contest... who will come up with the most impressive design?

A garland of accordion fold globe lights would make any occasion more festive. Kate at Minieco shows how to make 'em.

Heather of Rhymes with Magic folded these pretty origami hearts from plain and patterned papers. Make some to scatter on the table. They're a little tricky, but she links to a video tutorial.... I don't know about you, but seeing someone do the actual folding always seems to help.

Feeling inspired? I hope so. And take heart... spring will be here before we know it. Won't it? Oh please!