Traditional Origami Box with Lid Tutorial

Over the next few posts I will be exploring different origami boxes as requested by @erodedthoughts and @joseacabrerav

This is a traditional origami design, which I have seen in a few different origami books. Most recently in 'The Origami handbook' edited by Rick Beech. The instructions in this particular book depict a different way of folding this box which gives a diagonal on the lid. My instructions will give you a cross on the lid. Everyone is different so if you struggle with these instructions I highly recommend giving this book a try.

1. Start with the colour side face down and fold the paper in half diagonally in both directions.
2. Fold opposing corners to the centre.
3. Fold the newly formed edges to the centre once more.
4. Unfold completely and rotate 90 degrees.

1. Fold opposing corners to the center and the newly formed edges to the centre once more.
2. Unfold only the last step. You should still have your corners folded into the centre.
3. You should now have a four by four square in the middle with two triangles on either end.
   On the corner squares that are bisected diagonally draw a 1 on the half triangle which is a single layer.
   You are creating a hinge by only folding the marked triangle into the centre. Let the other side mountain fold up. It will curl up towards your fingers getting in the way. This is normal.
4. Fold the house shape formed over the hinges you have made and tuck it into the base.

1. Repeat on other side.

To make the lid you have to make a slightly larger box. To do this you fold the opposing corners to the centre, however the newly formed edges are folded roughly two thick edges worth from the centre. Everything else is the same. You will end up with a slightly shallower box which will fit snuggly.