You can make a simple paper snowflake with just a sheet of paper and scissors. Here’s an easy method that works well for kids and adults.

What you need

• Plain paper (printer paper works)
• Scissors

Step 1: Make a square

1. Start with a rectangle sheet (like printer paper).
2. Bring one short corner up to the opposite long edge so the edges line up, forming a triangle with a strip left over.
3. Crease the fold, then cut off the extra strip; unfold to get a square.

Step 2: Fold the paper

1. Fold the square in half diagonally to make a large triangle.
2. Fold that triangle in half again to make a smaller triangle.
3. Imagine the triangle divided into thirds like a pie slice; fold one “third” over the middle, then fold the other side over so all edges line up. You’ll have a narrow wedge shape.

Step 3: Trim the tip

• Cut straight across the wide end of the wedge to remove the uneven tips so you’re left with a neat, small triangle/wedge. This cut sets the outer shape of the snowflake.

Step 4: Cut the design

• Along the sides of the folded wedge, cut out small triangles, curves, or other simple shapes.
• Do not cut all the way across from one side to the other, or the snowflake will fall apart.
• You can also snip a tiny bit off the point for a hole in the center.

Step 5: Unfold and flatten

• Gently unfold all the layers to reveal the snowflake.
• Smooth it with your hands; if you want it very flat, place it under a heavy book for a while.

To experiment, just change where and how you cut the little shapes; every snowflake will come out different.