Dollar Bill Origami: Simple Instructions for Beginners

There is something magical hidden in the art of origami. Those peculiar forms that can be created with the use of dollar bills are a clever twist on the traditional art of paper folding. All you need is a banknote, patience, and a bit of imagination to turn paper into hearts and butterflies (and even more).

If it is something new for you, you are in the right place! We are glad to present easy step-by-step dollar bill origami instructions that may help you enjoy this pastime and transform ordinary money into charming shapes in no time. Besides, do not miss the bonus below –  a convenient coin identifier to help you dive deeper into the fascinating world of finance!

Tools You Will Need

One of the best things about origami with a dollar bill is how simple it is to get started. You do not need fancy materials or special equipment – just a few basic items so far:

• A crisp dollar bill: A new or slightly used bill works is a perfect match. The crisper it is, the easier it will be to make clean, precise folds.

• A flat surface: Prefer a clean table or desk to fold your bill accurately.

• Your fingers (which is obvious): No need for scissors or glue (if you do not want to ruin your budget and art, for sure). All folds are done by hand, so nimble fingers are your main tool.

• Bone folder or ruler: Though optional, a bone folder or the edge of a ruler can help press folds more efficiently If you want super-sharp creases, neatly.

Keeping money in origami is fun, but what about other storage methods? Learn more about the best coin storage ideas for beginners and pros alike.

Top 3 Dollar Bill Origami Ideas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Origami made of banknotes may look extremely captivating and peculiar, but its meaning can be as diverse as the selection of shapes itself. Let us briefly touch upon different creations that give you fun and joy in the end.

Heart

First things first, it is a dollar bill origami heart. This is what you need to do: 

Step 1: Fold in Half Lengthwise

Fold the dollar bill in half lengthwise (long edge to long edge) to create a center crease, then unfold.

Step 2: Fold in Half Widthwise

Fold the bill in half widthwise (short edge to short edge), then unfold to have a cross-shaped crease pattern.

Step 3: Fold the Bottom Edge to the Center

Take the bottom edge of the bill and fold it up to the center horizontal crease.

Step 4: Fold the Top Edge Down to the Center

Fold the top edge down to meet the same center crease. 

Step 5: Fold the Corners Inward

Fold each of the top two corners inward diagonally to create a point to form the top curves of the heart.

Step 6: Flip the Bill Over

Carefully flip the bill over to the other side.

Step 7: Create the Heart Point

Fold the bottom left and right edges inward at an angle to form the bottom point of the heart.

Step 8: Round the Top of the Heart

Fold down the top corners slightly, shaping the curves of a heart.

Step 9: Flip and Finish

Flip the heart back over and meet your origami heart with a dollar bill!

Butterfly 

If you consider the previous dollar bill origami easy, try making your personal butterfly at home. 

Step 1: Fold in Half Widthwise

Fold the dollar bill in half horizontally, then unfold it to reveal a center crease.

Step 2: Fold in Half Lengthwise

Now fold the bill in half vertically, then unfold it again to have a cross-shaped crease pattern.

Step 3: Accordion Fold Horizontally

Start at one short end and make small accordion folds to the other end.

Step 4: Fold the Accordion in Half

Fold the accordion structure in half (pinch it in the middle to make it butterfly-like). 

Step 5: Secure the Center

Twist the center or tie it with a small strip of paper or string. This is how the classic look of a butterfly is achieved. 

Step 6: Shape the Wings

Gently adjust the folds on each side to fan out the wings. You are done!

Flower

Dollar bill origami flowers mean an exquisite way to add a creative touch to gift ideas for coin collectors which can be DIY bouquets made entirely of money.

Step 1: Fold in Half Lengthwise

Fold the bill in half lengthwise, then unfold it to leave a center crease.

Step 2: Accordion Fold the Entire Bill

Make small accordion folds from one end to another (just like with the butterfly) and let them be as even as possible.

Step 3: Fold the Accordion in Half

Once you have done, fold the accordion structure in half to find the center. This will be the middle of your flower.

Step 4: Pinch and Secure the Center

Pinch the center and use a string or a twist tie to hold the center together. 

Step 5: Fan Out the Petals

Gently fan out both sides of the accordion and carefully pull apart and curve the edges to form “petals”. That is it.

When Origami Dollar Bills Are Not Enough… 

Origami is a great idea to impress your family members and friends. If we dive deeper into finance, we might see something unique and fascinating in the metal plates used daily – coins. These are omnipresent, ever-lasting, and exciting to keep. But with so many pieces in circulation, how do you know which ones are worth keeping?

This is where Coin ID Scanner comes in. It is a fine application designed specifically for coin lovers and investors to identify, store, and manage their collections properly. With a quick scan via your smartphone, a coin identification tool can tell you:

• The year and mint mark of your coin

• Its origin and denomination

• Rarity and collectibility

• Its estimated value based on market trends

By the way, it may be interesting to compare Coin ID Scanner to the PCGS CoinFacts mobile app.

Do not be afraid of doing something new – make various origami shapes and enjoy fresh hobbies with Coin ID Scanner by your side.