How to Make a Paper Cup by Folding

Co-authored by Robert Homayoon

Last Updated: April 25, 2025

A paper cup is a simple piece of origami. It has few folds but looks great in the end. You can make many other pieces from the cup.

Steps

Download Article

You can buy origami paper which is in squares already, or you can just get a piece of 8 1/2" by 11" (216 mm x 279 mm) paper and cut it into a square by folding it into a triangle and cutting off the excess.^{[1]
X
Expert Source

Robert Homayoon
Origami Expert

Expert Interview}
Fold the bottom corner to the top corner.

Advertisement
Run your finger along the fold to crease it.^{[2]
X
Expert Source

Robert Homayoon
Origami Expert

Expert Interview}
Pull the first flap over the folds you made with the corners of the paper. However, don't fold it all the way over, leave a small amount of space for another step.
Fold it down so that there is no flap left on that side. Repeat on the other side.
You have made an origami paper cup!
It can hold small objects simple to make and simple to use you can also make a more efficient cup with felt and sewing thread

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

Does it have a flat bottom?

Isa Wren

Community Answer

No, so it won't stand up by itself. The bottom is more of an edge than flat.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 2 Helpful 24
Question

Does skinnies paper work to?

Community Answer

Yes, it does.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 14 Helpful 12
Question

Do we need 2x the paper so it wont create holes and leak?

T. Chinsen

Top Answerer

Using 2x the paper will make it difficult to fold. The cup is not meant to be used for an extended period. It will not hold liquid once the liquid soaks into the paper.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 7 Helpful 15

See more answers

Ask a Question

200 characters left

Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.

Submit

Tips

Make the cup out of waterproof material such as wax paper if you want to use it.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Origami paper is often good quality, and comes in many patterns and designs.

Thanks
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0