How To Make A Paper Fan with DIY Japanese Paper Fan Ornaments

Learn how to make a DIY Japanese Paper Fan with dollar store items for unique Christmas ornaments with this simple tutorial and video.

Have you ever marveled at the delicate making of Japanese Origami fans, also called sensu folding fans? These elegant pieces, once a symbol of status and fashion in Japan, are not just functional but are also exquisite works of art. 

With the holiday season around the corner, it’s that time of year when we start thinking about unique and delightful decorations. 

In today’s modern context, these traditional DIY paper fan decorations have evolved and are used universally, adorning various events like weddings, parties, and festivals. They are a versatile, whimsical, and eco-friendly way to spruce up any space, bringing a whiff of elegance and a splash of color wherever they are placed. 

People worldwide have embraced this simple yet captivating craft, integrating it into their decorative endeavors.

So, I also decided to create DIY Japanese Paper Fans with 100 yen store items for unique Christmas ornaments. This tutorial is super easy, and they look so lovely!

Let’s Make Fun Paper Fans – A Whiff Of Tradition And Aesthetics

I’m excited to share my first Christmas post for the season. One of the perks of living in Japan is being able to travel all over Asia for relatively cheap and infusing global decor into our usual modern eclectic style.

In just a few simple steps, you can create your own beautiful paper fan decorations, bringing a touch of Japanese tradition into your home. Crafting these paper fans is a cool and simple way to make something beautiful.

They’re like little pieces of art you can hang up or give to someone special. 

So, let’s dive into how to make these charming DIY paper fan ornaments.

Here’s What You Need For DIY Paper Fans

• Origami or washi paper (any decorative paper will work; try a modern print!)
• Wood sticks (coffee stirs or popsicle sticks)
• Decorative string
• Paper cutter/scissors
• A glue stick and hot glue (If you have double-sided tape, it can work too)

Easy-to-Follow Steps for DIY Paper Fan Decorations

These DIY paper fan decorations take just a few minutes to make and are a delightful project for the whole family to enjoy.

They make charming DIY paper fan ornaments, bringing a personalized touch to your decorations. (Remember to be careful when using the hot glue gun!)

Watch me construct one live and learn how to make paper fan decorations that can enchant any space!

Construct the Fan

Step 1: Choose a decorative paper that you prefer. For this DIY paper fan, the paper can be square or rectangular, depending on your preferred size.

Step 2: Cut your paper to size.  If you’re using 6×6 origami squares, trim two pieces to 6X4 to make one origami fan.

Step 3: For this step on how to make paper fans, fold both pieces into an accordion, making folds about 1/4 inch thin, back and forth, until the entire piece is folded.

Step 4: This step explains how to make round paper fans! 

Attach the two pieces in the center using a glue stick, layering an accordion fold onto the second piece, creating a rounded paper fan appearance.

Attach the Fan Handles

Step 1: With the fan’s backside up, attach a wooden stick to each side using either a glue stick or glue gun.

Step 2: Wrap the paper around the stick and secure it with more glue. Once folded, find the center of the paper and secure it with a string or ribbon for hanging around the center, ensuring it’s tight enough to hold the folds together but loose enough to allow the fan to open.

Step 3: Open the fan up wide by carefully crossing your sticks and securing it in place with a dot of hot glue.

However, if you want to achieve a full circle for your paper fan decorations DIY, glue or tape the ends together. But, for a semi-circle look, leave the ends as they are.

Step 4: Lastly, tie your string at the top, and you have a finished DIY paper fan!

Display these lovelies on your tree, or use them as a unique gift tag!

Add Finishing Touches! 

Customize your DIY paper folding fan with additional decorations, like glitter, stickers, or drawings, to add a personal touch.

Aren’t they fun?   What kind of prints and colors would you use? Head over to the winter holidays, DIYs, and decor page for more articles and resources!

Points to Remember:

• Make each fold as sharp and precise as possible for a more professional look.
• You can experiment with different sizes and colors of paper.
• Keep the fan unfolded until the glue is completely dried.

Paper Fan Decorations How To Make –  FAQs

1. How do you stick a paper fan to the wall?

To stick a paper fan to the wall, start by deciding where you want it to go. Use blue painter’s tape to mark the spot because it’s easy to remove and won’t damage your wall. 

Next, if you want a secure hold, use clear command hooks or Velcro strips; these are good because they are strong but won’t ruin your paint. Place the hook or Velcro in the center of where the fan will go. Now, open your paper fan. 

Finally, attach the fan to the wall by hooking it onto the command hook or pressing it onto the Velcro.

2. What glue is best for a paper origami fan? 

For crafting a paper fan, a glue stick or PVA glue is typically the best option, as they are designed for paper and are easy to work with. Glue sticks are mess-free and allow for more precise application, while PVA glue offers a strong bond but may require more drying time. 

Choose according to your preferences and requirements.

Final Thoughts 

The easy steps to make paper fan decorations outlined above will teach you how to make folding fans and enlighten you about the beautiful and subtle art of Japanese fan-making.

This craft is not just a way to create beautiful DIY paper fan ornaments. It’s a journey into the meticulous and revered world of traditional Japanese arts.

Creating DIY paper fan decorations is also a wonderful way to introduce children to the charming world of origami and Japanese crafts.

It’s a simple, engaging activity that offers kids the joy of creating something beautiful with their own hands, blending art with cultural appreciation.

Whether you decide to hang them as ornaments or gift them to a loved one, these Japanese paper fans are sure to add a touch of elegance and charm wherever they go!

So, grab the supplies and enjoy making paper fans with your kids, exploring creativity and craftsmanship together!