Origami: Ninja Star (Shuriken)

A classic, kid-friendly paper-folding project using two square sheets — no scissors or glue needed. Print this page for step-by-step folding instructions.

1. Take two square sheets of paper — using two different colors makes the finished star look best. Fold each one in half to make a rectangle, then unfold; this center crease is just a guide for both pieces.
2. On each rectangle, fold the two long edges in to meet the center crease, so you’re left with a longer, narrower rectangle. Do this for both sheets.
3. Fold each narrow rectangle in half at an angle so the two ends point in opposite directions, making a slanted parallelogram ("S" shape). Make one for each color.
4. Lay one S-shaped piece flat on the table, then place the second one on top, rotated a quarter turn, so the two pieces overlap in the middle to form an 8-pointed star.
5. Fold each of the four points on the top piece down and tuck it into the little pocket on the piece underneath — this locks the two pieces together.
6. Flip the star over and repeat with the remaining four points, tucking each one into its pocket, until all 8 points sit flat and locked in place.