Home >> Toys >> Childrens Toys

How to Make an Origami Finger Trap

The origami finger trap is a simple toy that can be fun for kids or pre-teens. The traps are inexpensive to buy, but the experience of making one from folded paper may be as much fun as catching a friend's fingers in the finished product. If they work properly, the traps tighten as the victim tries to remove his fingers from the tube. Relaxing the trap so the openings widen is the only way to escape.

Things You'll Need

8-1/2-by-11-inch paper in different colors, 2
Glue or tape
Standard size felt-tip marker

Instructions

- 1
  Cut two strips of paper 1-1/4 inches wide and 11-1/2 inches long from each of the colors of paper.
- 2
  Mark each of the papers 1/4 inch from the top. Then fold each paper in half horizontally to meet the line, leaving a 1/4-inch flap. Fold the flap over.
- 3
  Glue or tape one strip of each color together at a 90 degree, or right, angle. Fold the 1/4-inch flap from one strip over the other strip for added strength before gluing. Glue strips and flaps in place. Repeat with the second set of strips.
- 4
  Place the fastened strips on the marker, one on the top and one on the bottom. The points of the right angle should point to the top of the marker. Flap sides should be down.
- 5
  Braid the strips around the marker. Start on the right side, wrapping the first strip down, then bring the opposite colored strip up from the bottom and cross over the first. Repeat on the left side. Continue to the end of the paper strips.
- 6
  Glue or tape the ends at right angles.

Childrens Toys