How to make paper snowflakes

Learn how to make paper snowflakes in this step-by-step tutorial. Making snowflakes out of paper is a fun activity for any age and only requires basic supplies that you will have around the house.

To make 3D paper snowflakes, all you need is some white paper (copy paper is ideal), scissors, tape and a stapler. And for 2D paper snowflakes, you need even less! Just white paper and some scissors.

Making paper snowflakes is a fantastic last-minute decoration that anyone can make, as the simple patterns only take a few minutes to make. Try our how to make a paper snowflake video tutorial below.

How to make a paper snowflake video tutorial

There are limitless paper snowflake patterns you can try, and it's fun to experiment with different variations.

If you want to design your own, grab a pencil and sketch out some random patterns onto your snowflake wedge (more about that below), and see what paper snowflake patterns you come up with!

And because they are so quick (and cheap!) to make, once you've learnt how to make paper snowflakes, you can create a whole snow flurry inside your house.

Have a crafty Christmas

Whether you're getting creative with cards or any other festive papercraft projects, you'l love our free Christmas printable papers.

As well as our step-by-step tutorial on how to make paper snowflakes, we've rounded up some of our favourite paper snowflake templates from around the web.

If you’re in a crafty mood, why not check out the best glue gun and best die-cutting machine. Thinking about buying a craft printer? Check out our review of the best printer for card making.

How to make snowflakes out of paper

What do you need to make paper snowflakes?

White paper
Scissors

Step 1

First, start with a square of white paper. Fold in half to make a triangle.

Step 2

Fold in half again to make a smaller triangle.

Step 3

Using the centre point as a guide, fold one edge up. Align the top of the point so that it is roughly one-third from the top of the triangle.

Step 4

Fold the other edge up so that it is roughly one-third from the top of the triangle on the other side.

Step 5

To see how much paper you’re working with, flip the snowflake over and snip along the horizontal line.

You don’t have to do this step, but it makes the next step easier.

Step 6

Now, draw on your design! If you’re feeling bold or favour the more random approach, then go straight in with the scissors.

If you would like a star in the middle of your snowflake, draw a small triangle in the very centre. Working on the vertical, draw one arm (or dendrite if you would like to use the proper word) of your snowflake.

Make sure to keep at least one contact point – that is, make sure at least part of your design goes off the edge of the paper on both sides. Otherwise, your snowflake will fall apart!

Step 7

Once you’re happy with your design, carefully cut out your design.

If you are working with a smaller piece of paper you might like to use decoupage scissors as they are smaller and can cut intricate details.

We recommend using scissors over a craft knife because you have to cut through multiple layers and only the top layer has pencil lines, so it’s easy to lose the lines when working with a craft knife.

Step 8

Carefully unfold your design! Now find somewhere to display your finished snowflake.

You could stick them to a window (using tape or white tac), or hang them up from the ceiling. How about making a string of snowflakes?

Starry night

Complete your collection of festive paper decorations with our fabulous giant paper star tutorial.

How to make paper snowflakes 3D

Decorate your home this holiday season with these easy 3d paper snowflakes! Use patterned paper for bright Scandi-inspired designs, or use white copy paper to add a touch of frost.

Here’s a top tip, if you go for patterned paper try using double-sided paper as both sides will be visible as you begin twisting the snowflake together.

Each of the dendrites (arms) of the 3d paper snowflake are made separately, so begin by creating a template (as shown in steps 1-2). This will make it much quicker and easier to make the cuts in the squares.