Creating a Cootie Catcher: A Step-By-Step Guide

Ah, the nostalgic feeling of creating your own paper cootie catcher! These delightful folded contraptions served as both a form of entertainment and a way to predict various outcomes during childhood. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore how to make your very own cootie catcher.

Step 1: Gather your materials
To create your cootie catcher, you will need the following materials: a square piece of paper (preferably a 6 x 6-inch or 15 x 15 cm), colorful markers or pens for decorating, and a pair of scissors.

Step 2: Folding the paper
Start by laying your paper flat on a table or workspace. Take one corner of the paper and fold it diagonally, making sure the opposite corners meet. Crease along the fold firmly, ensuring it stays in place throughout the process.

Step 3: Folding the opposite corner
Now, fold the opposite corner diagonally to create a smaller triangle. Crease the fold firmly as well before unfolding it. You should now have a visible creased “X” shape on your paper.

Step 4: Second set of folds
Next, fold each corner of the square towards the center until the tips meet. After folding all four corners, you will have a smaller square shape with an open top.

Step 5: Flipping the paper over
Flip the paper over so that the folded flaps are at the bottom, facing downwards. This step will ensure that your cootie catcher is more stable and less likely to unfold when you’re playing with it.

Step 6: Folding once again
Fold each corner towards the center of the square, aligning the folded edges with the center crease. Once all four corners are folded, you will notice a small square in the middle.

Step 7: Preparing the cootie catcher
Carefully open up the flaps of the cootie catcher, then push the center square upwards, allowing it to pop out and form a diamond shape. Hold it firmly to maintain its shape.

Step 8: Decorating the cootie catcher
Now comes the fun part! Use your colorful markers or pens to decorate the outer sides of the cootie catcher. Let your creativity run wild – draw patterns, write numbers, or assign fun colors to each section. This is an opportunity to personalize your cootie catcher and make it uniquely your own.

Step 9: Customizing the inside
To customize the inside of the cootie catcher, lift the flaps one by one and write different questions or actions beneath them. For instance, you could write “Sing a song” or “Share a secret” to add an element of surprise when playing with your cootie catcher.

Step 10: Time to play!
With your cootie catcher complete, it’s time to have some fun! Slide your fingers into the pockets underneath to hold onto it firmly. Then, open and close the cootie catcher by moving your fingers in opposite directions. Ask a friend to choose a number or color, and open and close the cootie catcher accordingly. After a few combinations, reveal the hidden message by lifting the chosen flap.

Creating a cootie catcher is an excellent way to unleash your creativity and enjoy a playful activity. It can also be a great tool for ice-breaking activities or entertainment at parties. So, grab some paper, get folding, and let the fun begin!