Looking for a creative way to add a unique touch to a special occasion or simply want to keep the kids busy with a simple craft? Dollar bill origami is a great solution! Not only does it offer a new look to your gift-giving, but it’s also a fun craft to do that doesn’t require any prep – all you need is a one-dollar bill! Whether you’re aiming for a clever presentation for a gift card or simply want to adorn your favorite features with some creativity, this origami bow tie tutorial is the right place to start.

Finished result for a dollar bill origami bow tie. tutorial from kids activities blog — Follow this simple tutorial to make a dollar bill bow tie!

Instructions

Crafting your own dollar bill origami bow tie is super fun and not as hard as it seems. It’s a great way to create beautiful bows, perfect for gifting occasions like birthdays, graduations, or as a unique addition to a gift card.

Step 1:

Begin by folding the dollar bill crosswise and then unfolding it. Next, fold the bill in half lengthwise to set the foundation for your bow tie.

dollar bill origami bow tie - step 1 - Begin by folding the dollar bill crosswise and then unfolding it — Fold it in half.

dollar bill origami bow tie - step 1 - Next, fold the bill in half lengthwise to set the foundation — We’re setting the foundation here.

Step 2:

Rotate the bill until the previous fold aligns at the top. Fold both top corners downward and then unfold them.

dollar bill origami bow tie - step 2 - Fold both top corners downward and then unfold them. — Fold the corners as shown.

dollar bill origami bow tie - step 2 - unfold — Now unfold.

Step 3:

Create an inside reverse fold for both the right and left corners, using the existing creases as a guide.

dollar bill origami bow tie - step 3 - Fold up the bottom of the front layer of the bill, following the indicated creases. — Follow the creases to create this shape!

Step 4:

Fold up the bottom of the front layer of the bill, following the indicated creases. Repeat this fold for the back layer to ensure symmetry.

Step 5:

Form triangles by folding both bottom corners upward on the front layer. Mirror this action for the opposite side to shape the bow tie.

dollar bill origami bow tie - step 5 - Repeat on the other side — Repeat on the other side.

Step 6:

Rotate the bill to one side and gently pull the edges apart to separate both layers of the bill. While doing so, press the center until the figure lays completely flat.

Step 7:

Carefully separate the layers and ensure the bill forms a flat, well-defined bow tie shape.

Yield: 1

Dollar Bill Origami Bow Tie Tutorial

Learn how to make an origami bow tie with one simple dollar bill!

Active Time 15 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Difficulty easy

Estimated Cost $1

Materials

One dollar bill.

Instructions

Begin by folding the dollar bill crosswise and then unfolding it. Next, fold the bill in half lengthwise to set the foundation for your bow tie.
Rotate the bill until the previous fold aligns at the top. Fold both top corners downward and then unfold them.
Create an inside reverse fold for both the right and left corners, using the existing creases as a guide.
Fold up the bottom of the front layer of the bill, following the indicated creases. Repeat this fold for the back layer to ensure symmetry.
Form triangles by folding both bottom corners upward on the front layer. Mirror this action for the opposite side to shape the bow tie.
Rotate the bill to one side and gently pull the edges apart to separate both layers of the bill. While doing so, press the center until the figure lays completely flat.
Carefully separate the layers and ensure the bill forms a flat, well-defined bow tie shape.
Your dollar bill origami bow tie is done!