Remember those carefree days of youth, folding paper into shapes and marvels? Let’s tap into that nostalgia with an exciting DIY paper wallet project.
Crafting these colorful wallets isn’t just fun, it’s a playful journey we can share with the little ones in our lives.
I’ve recently put together one of these charming wallets and outlined the steps for you, complete with handy images to guide us along.
It’s all about bringing a piece of childhood magic into our daily lives, and trust me, it’s as delightful as it sounds.
Let’s take a quick look into the list of things required to create an origami paper wallet.
Things required to craft origami wallet
![Things required to craft origami wallet](https://theportablelaundry.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Things-required-to-craft-origami-wallet.jpg)
- Craft Card Papers: You will need colorful sheets to make multiple Wallet pockets.
- Pencil and Scale Ruler: Pencil will be used for marking the required sizes and for cut outs. Ruler will help you mark appropriate sizes and draw straight lines.
- Black Sketch Pen: I have used a black color sketch pen to mark the borders of the wallet which you will come across toward the end.
- Scissors: To cut your craft materials to the desired size and shape.
- Ribbons: Ribbons will be used to add a touch of decor to the final crafted paper wallet. I’ve used it for decor and as a lock to hold the wallet’s cover in place.
- Glue: You will need the glue to stick the craft papers, ribbons, and other decor materials.
Alright, once you have the above requirements ready you can easily execute the below steps.
Step 1: Fold the paper from either side
![Step 1 - Fold the paper from either side](https://theportablelaundry.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-1-Fold-the-paper-from-either-side.jpg)
Let’s kick things off with our first step towards crafting that paper wallet pocket.
We’ll begin with one, and once you’ve got the hang of it, you can replicate the process to create as many as you need.
For this, I’ve chosen a piece of paper that’s pretty much square, measuring 16×15 cm.
The trick here is to fold the paper in such a way that one side overlaps the other, leaving just the right amount of space to glue them together.
It’s a simple start, but getting this right sets the stage for all the colorful pockets we’re about to make.
Step 2: Stick and fold the paper
![Step 2 - Stick and fold the paper](https://theportablelaundry.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-2-Stick-and-fold-the-paper.jpg)
Next up, I dabbed some glue in the space between our folds to make sure they stick together nicely.
After that, I folded it in half to create the pocket shape we’re aiming for.
This part also needs a bit of glue to hold everything in place.
Step 3: Stick to create pockets
![Step 3 - Stick to create pockets](https://theportablelaundry.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-3-Stick-to-create-pockets-.jpg)
Then, I put a line of glue right down the middle, making sure our pockets could still pop up freely from the edges.
If you’re wondering exactly how to do it, just check out the picture above (Image 3.1).
And just like that, we’ve got our first wallet pocket ready to roll in our DIY adventure. It’s pretty satisfying to see it come together, isn’t it?
Step 4: Create multiple pockets and stick them together
![Step 4 - Create multiple pockets and stick them together](https://theportablelaundry.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-4-Create-multiple-pockets-and-stick-them-together.jpg)
Now, for a splash of fun, let’s whip up several pockets in a variety of colors.
Sticking to just one color might make our wallet look a bit too plain, and we’re all about the dazzle, aren’t we? So, I went ahead and chose different shades for each pocket.
Next step, I added a dab of glue to the center of each pocket and pressed them together, just like shown in images 4.1 and 4.2.
And voila, seeing them all stuck together really brings a smile to my face, it looks amazing!
Step 5: Mark and Cut the Wallet’s Cover
![Step 5 - Mark and Cut the Wallet's Cover](https://theportablelaundry.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-5-Mark-and-Cut-the-Wallets-Cover.jpg)
For the wallet’s cover, I picked a sunny sheet of yellow paper and traced out how wide it needed to be.
Then, with a pair of scissors, I carefully cut along those lines. It felt a bit like shaping the sun to wrap our little treasures.
Step 6: Trim excess length
![Step 6 - Trim excess length](https://homelifechic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-6-Trim-excess-length.jpg)
Next, I laid the wallet on that yellow sheet, making sure it covered both the front and back.
I left a bit of extra paper at the top, planning to fold it over the pockets for a neat finish.
The last step? Just trim off any extra length from the other end of the yellow sheet.
Step 7 : Stick the Wallet Cover
![Step 7 - Stick the Wallet Cover](https://homelifechic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-7-Stick-the-Wallet-Cover.jpg)
Once I had the cover cut to just the right size, I spread some glue on it, making sure to leave the top part free.
Now it’s time to attach it to the wallet’s front and back.
And when it’s securely in place, just watch how incredible it looks as you gently pull to open and push to close the wallet.
It’s like a little magic trick in your hands!
Step 8: Shape the cover edges
![Step 8 - Shape the cover edges](https://homelifechic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-8-Shape-the-cover-edges.jpg)
I went ahead and trimmed the free edges of the cover to give it a curved shape.
Before, it looked pretty standard, but now? It’s definitely got more flair. It’s amazing how a simple curve can add so much character!
Step 9: Touch of decor
![Step 9 - Touch of decor](https://homelifechic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-9-Touch-of-decor.jpg)
I’ve snipped out some heart shapes to adorn the wallet cover, and I’m planning to weave in some ribbon for that extra decorative touch.
Just measure the ribbon so it fits perfectly, tucking its ends into the wallet’s side gaps.
If you’re curious about how it looks, glance at images 9.2 and 9.3 above. It’s all about adding those sweet, personal touches!
Step 10: Fixing the ribbon
![Step 10 - Fixing the ribbon](https://homelifechic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-10-Fixing-the-ribbon.jpg)
Once I had the ribbon cut to just the right length, I dabbed some glue along its edges.
Then, I positioned it on the front cover of our paper wallet, tucking the edges neatly behind the first pocket.
This ribbon isn’t just for show, it doubles as a clever lock to keep the wallet cover securely in place.
And for that final touch of charm, I layered the heart-shaped cutouts on the bottom corner of the wallet.
Step 11: The stitching effect
![Step 11 - The stitching effect](https://homelifechic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Step-11-The-stitching-effect.jpg)
Notice how focusing on the tiny details can transform anything into a work of art? Taking that idea, I grabbed a black sketch pen and added dotted lines along the wallet’s edges.
If you take a moment to look closely, these dots mimic the look of stitches you’d find on a real wallet’s edges.
It’s all about adding those finishing touches that make our paper creation look incredibly authentic and crafted with care.
![paper wallet](https://homelifechic.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/paper-wallet.jpg)
Seeing the finished product is sure to brighten your day, and it’s something kids will be thrilled to try their hands at crafting their own paper wallets.
For Complete Video Handholding you can refer to the below video:
Final Thoughts
Diving into this DIY paper wallet project is more than just a crafting session, it’s a heartwarming bridge to the simplicity and wonder of our childhoods.
As we fold, cut, and glue, we’re not just creating wallets, we’re crafting memories and sharing laughs, especially when kids join the fun.
Don’t shy away from experimenting with different materials and designs.
Maybe add a personal touch with doodles or stamps.
These wallets could become thoughtful, handmade gifts that carry a story and a smile.
Remember, the beauty of DIY is in making something uniquely yours.
So, while you follow these steps, let your imagination lead the way. Who knows? This might just be the beginning of many more crafting adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did it take to craft the paper wallet?
A total of 20 minutes. It took about 10 minutes to make multiple pockets of different colors and another 10 minutes to craft the cover and its decor.
How many pockets are sufficient for the wallet?
How long did it take to craft the paper wallet?
A total of 20 minutes. It took about 10 minutes to make multiple pockets of different colors and another 10 minutes to craft the cover and its decor.
Is there a way to make the wallet more durable?
Although paper wallets are inherently temporary, you can increase durability by laminating the finished wallet or applying a clear adhesive film over the paper, especially if you’re using it frequently or carrying it in your pocket.