Paper Airplane Designs

A database of paper airplanes with easy to follow folding instructions, video tutorials and printable folding plans. find the best paper airplanes that fly the furthest and stay aloft the longest. learn how to make paper airplanes that will impress your friends., search airplanes, parents & teachers, become a member.

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About Fold'NFly

For more than 10 years, Fold'NFly has been teaching people around the world how to make paper airplanes . Our extensive database of designs includes step-by-step instructions, video guides and printable templates where you simply fold on the numbered lines to get a perfect paper plane, every time.

In addition to the paper airplane plans, we have a collection of expert tips & tricks that will help you perfect your folded aircraft and achieve optimal performance. We also have a collection of paper airplane articles on a variety of topics that enthusiasts may find interesting. For example, discover some paper airplane world records or learn how to make a paper airplane launcher .

Whether you are an expert paper airplane ace pilot or a novice student aviator, we have something for everyone. We hope that you will enjoy this fun activity and share it with friends and family.

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You are just 6 steps away from folding a paper plane that really flies

Hangar-7, Salzburg, Austria

1. Fold the paper in half and unfold

© Red Bull Paper Wings

2. Fold the top corners to the centre line

3. Fold the top sides to the centre line

4. Fold in half along the centre line

5. Fold the wings along the centre line

6. Give it a throw!

Be precise and make sharp folds.

© Filip Nagy / Red Bull Content Pool

Throwing a paper plane at Hangar-7 in Austria.

© Samo Vidic / Red Bull Content Pool

Insider hacks:

  • If the nose rises then suddenly drops, you’ve got the equivalent of a stall. And nobody wants that. Try gently bending down the back part of the wings, but only slightly. Don’t crease them.
  • If the nose drops into a dive right away, try bending the back part of the wings upward.

Find out more about Red Bull Paper Wings

Find out the secret to making a winning paper plane

The day when 176 paper plane experts met up to launch …, red bull paper wings: a simple concept with some ….

Quill And Fox

Best Design Studio

how to make a professional paper plane

Amber Robertson

Amber Robertson is the founder of Quill and Fox. A creative writing studio that helps people find their voice and share their stories. Amber is also a published author, with her first book slated for release in 2020. She loves spending time with her family and friends, reading, writing, and traveling. When Amber was younger, she loved to write short stories and plays. But somewhere along the way, she lost touch with her creativity. It wasn’t until she became a mom that she realized how important it was to share her stories—both the good and the bad—with the people she loves most. That’s when Quill and Fox was born. Amber is passionate about helping others find their voice and share their stories. She believes that every person has a story worth telling, and it’s her mission to help them tell it in a way that is authentic and true to themselves

How To Make A Perfect Paper Airplane

How to Make a Perfect Paper Airplane: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Table of Contents

Are you looking to make the perfect paper airplane? Look no further! Paper airplanes are easy to make and a great way to entertain both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re an expert folder or just getting started, these step-by-step instructions will help you make the perfect paper airplane every time.

Materials Needed

Test and adjust your paper airplane design for better flight

Before we get started on making the perfect paper airplane, let’s talk about the materials you’ll need. First and foremost, you’ll need paper. The type of paper you use will affect the weight and durability of your airplane. We recommend using standard printer paper or origami paper, as they are lightweight and easy to fold.

In addition to paper, you may want to have a ruler, scissors, and tape on hand. The ruler will help you make precise folds, and the scissors and tape will come in handy if you need to make adjustments to your airplane.

Now that you have your materials ready, it’s time to start folding! The basic fold is the foundation for all paper airplane designs. Here’s how to do it:

  • Take a piece of paper and fold it in half vertically. Crease the fold with your fingers or a ruler to make it sharp.
  • Unfold the paper and fold the top corners down toward the center crease. The top of the paper should form a point.
  • Fold the top point down to meet the center crease.
  • Fold the paper in half along the center crease.
  • Fold the wings down so that the tips meet the bottom edge of the paper.

Congratulations! You’ve just made a basic paper airplane. This design is perfect for beginners and can be customized with different folding techniques for added flair.

Advanced Folding Techniques

If you’re looking to take your paper airplane game to the next level, try experimenting with different folding techniques. Here are a few examples:

The Dart is a popular paper airplane design known for its speed and distance. To make the Dart, follow these steps:

  • Start with a piece of paper and fold it in half vertically.
  • Fold the top corners down to the center crease, just like in the basic fold.
  • Fold the wings down again, this time at a 45-degree angle.
  • Fold the wingtips up to create a vertical stabilizer.

The Dart is great for racing and can travel long distances with the right launch technique.

The Glider is a paper airplane design that is all about aerodynamics. To make the Glider, follow these steps:

  • Start with a piece of paper and fold it in half horizontally.
  • Fold the top corners down to the center crease.
  • Fold the wings up at a 45-degree angle.
  • Fold the wingtips down to create winglets.

The Glider is great for smooth, controlled flights and can stay in the air for a long time with the right launch technique.

Testing and Adjusting

Once you’ve made your paper airplane, it’s time to test it out! The best way to test your airplane is by launching it from a high point, like a balcony or a staircase. Here are a few tips for testing and adjusting your paper airplane:

  • Launch your airplane at a slight upward angle. This will help it gain altitude and stay in the air longer.
  • Launch your airplane with a flick of the wrist. A gentle toss will not provide enough force to keep it in the air.
  • Pay attention to the flight pattern of your airplane. Does it veer to the left or right? Does it nose-dive or stall out? These are all signs that your airplane needs some adjustments.
  • If your airplane isn’t flying the way you want it to, try adjusting the wings by folding them up or down slightly. You can also adjust the tail by folding it up or down.

Remember, practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first few flights aren’t successful. Keep experimenting with different designs and techniques until you find the perfect paper airplane for you.

In conclusion, making the perfect paper airplane is all about trial and error. Start with the basic fold and experiment with different designs and techniques until you find the one that works best for you. Don’t be afraid to adjust your airplane as needed, and don’t forget to have fun! Making paper airplanes is a great way to exercise your creativity and pass the time. So grab some paper and get folding!

Once you’ve made your paper airplane, it’s time to test it out and make any necessary adjustments. Here are some tips on how to test your paper airplane’s flight and make adjustments for better flight:

Flight Test

To test your paper airplane’s flight, find an open space with no obstacles, such as a park or gymnasium. Hold the airplane by the bottom and give it a gentle toss. Observe how the airplane flies and make note of any issues, such as poor stability or a short flight time.

Adjustments

If you find that your airplane is not flying as well as you’d like, there are several adjustments you can make to improve its flight. Here are a few tips:

  • Adjust the wings: If your airplane is flying to one side or the other, adjust the wings by bending them slightly up or down.
  • Adjust the tail: If your airplane is flying up or down, adjust the tail by bending it up or down slightly.
  • Add weight: If your airplane is too light, add a paperclip or two to the nose to give it more weight and stability.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Keep experimenting with your paper airplane designs and adjusting them until you achieve the perfect flight.

Congratulations, you now know how to make the perfect paper airplane! By following these step-by-step instructions and experimenting with different folding techniques, you can create paper airplanes that fly higher, faster, and farther than ever before.

Remember, the key to making the perfect paper airplane is practice and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make adjustments to your designs until you achieve the perfect flight.

So next time you’re looking for a fun and easy activity, grab some paper and start folding. Who knows, you may just discover your new favorite hobby!

Origami Way

How to make paper airplanes.

Learn how to make paper airplanes with these easy instructions. Select the plane you want and get ready for takeoff. Be careful with the ones that are pointy, they can hurt! Most planes are best indoors, but some will surpise you outdoors.

In addition, paper planes resemble flight itself! As early as 500 BC, they found the first folding paper airplane that came from China. The popularity of these paper airplane flying toys is the same as the paper-folding craft of origami, which grew in Japan around the same time in China.

Paper airplanes are very helpful when you want to illustrate air traffic control guidelines. There was a time when people used the paper airplane to explain and discuss the fundamental parts of real aircraft. People of a certain age may recall buying those fancy "White Wings" in the store made from several sheets of squeezed chipboard paper, and these cutout versions are still paper airplanes too.

How to Make a Paper Airplane?

If you want to know how to fold a paper airplane with the best design, you can check out this page for easy step-by-step paper airplane instructions, and you will be amazed at the outcome of the paper airplane you made.

Gather the materials needed, like a piece of origami paper or any other type of paper, and be excited about the results. When we want to achieve something like this paper airplane, we rely on the instructions given, and with these proper instructions, you can let your paper folding plane fly with the best design. Get your craft paper, and start the folding process to make the paper plane, soar it high.

  • © Origamiway.com

how to make a professional paper plane

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How to Make a Paper Airplane

Learn the simple steps for high-flying fun with this tutorial on five basic paper airplane patterns.

how to make a professional paper plane

Related To:

Test your paper folding technique with these paper airplane examples. Whether you are looking for a quick diversion from the grind of adulthood or are teaching a youngster DIY skills, these planes are a great way to add a little levity to your day. The examples below are all beginner or intermediate level. The materials are cheap and only require paper, a pair of scissors, a ruler, and some double stick tape (optional) to complete.

Make 5 basic paper airplanes

Paper Airplane DIY

Create fun and simple paper airplanes

Photo by: Sam Henderson

Sam Henderson

For best results use a flat, thin-edged ruler. Make good creases along each edge. Adding double stick tape to the inside of the body keeps the wings from separating in flight.

The most basic version. A simple standard that everyone should know how to make.

Make 5 basic paper airplanes

  • Fold the paper in half vertically.
  • Unfold the paper and fold each of the top corners into the center line.
  • Fold the top edges into the center line.
  • Fold the plane in half toward you.
  • Fold the wings down, matching the top edges up with the bottom edge of the body.
  • Add double stick tape to the inside of the body. The finished plane should look like this.

This one is built for distance, plus it just looks cool.

Make 5 basic paper airplanes

  • Fold the peak toward you and 3/4” from the bottom of the paper.
  • Fold both top corners into the center line.
  • Fold the remaining tip over the two flaps at the center line to lock them in place.
  • Fold the plane in half away from you.
  • Fold the wings down 1” from the bottom of the plane.
  • Fold up the sides of each wing 1/2” tall.
  • Cut two small slits at the back of each wing. Fold up the tabs.

Built correctly, this bee-like beauty stays in the air for a long time.

Make 5 basic paper airplanes

  • Fold the paper in half horizontally.
  • Fold the peak down to meet the edge of the previous fold.
  • Fold the upper sides into the center line.
  • Fold the top edge 1/2” away from you.
  • Fold the plane in half towards you.
  • Fold the wings down 1/2” from the bottom of the plane.

Count on speed and distance from this sleek plane.

Make 5 basic paper airplanes

  • Unfold the paper and fold the top edge down 2”.
  • Fold the top edge down again to meet the bottom of the previous fold.
  • Fold the top edge down one more time to meet the bottom of the previous fold.
  • Fold the top edges down and away from you to the center line on the back of the paper.
  • Starting at the top of the thick nose of the plane, fold the wings down 1/2” in the front and slightly angled to 1 1/2” in the back. Fold up the edges of the wings 1/2”.

The Bullnose

This plane is deceptively fast and stays aloft for quite a distance.

Make 5 basic paper airplanes

  • Fold the top right corner over to the left side, making a fold from the top of the paper to the bottom right corner.
  • Unfold the paper and repeat for the left corner.
  • Unfold the paper again and fold the top right corner over to meet the crease made from the first fold.
  • Fold the left corner over to meet the crease from the second fold.
  • Fold the top right edge over to meet the edge of the fold from step 3. Repeat for the other side.
  • Fold the top edge down and towards you to meet the point where the right and left layers cross.
  • Fold the plane in half away from you. Staring at the nose, fold the wings down at a slight angle, 1/2” in the front to about 2” in the back.

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How To Make Paper Airplanes (Free Printable + Videos)

Soar into a world of creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning!

Three different paper airplanes and a set of printables on a blue background.

Teaching kids how to make paper airplanes isn’t just a fun activity. It’s also an opportunity to build fine motor and critical thinking skills. Plus, it introduces them to the basic concepts of aerodynamics, such as lift, drag, and thrust.

Ready to get started? Follow our simple step-by-step directions for making three different paper airplanes. You’ll learn how to fold a dart plane, a glider plane, and a stunt plane. There’s even a free printable with instructions so kids can follow along as they soar into a world of creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning!

@weareteachers_ We’re sharing how to make paper airplanes on WeAreTeachers.com. Get printable directions for three different paper airplanes! #paperairplane #diy #funforkids ♬ Cute and heartwarming song B: Editing 2 – Ken Nakagawa

Step 1: Fold the paper in half lengthwise.

Orange paper- how to make paper airplanes

Step 2: Unfold. Then fold both top corners into the center crease.

orange paper folded

Step 3: Fold both top edges into the center crease.

folded orange paper

Step 4: Fold the paper in half lengthwise along the existing crease.

Orange folded paper- how to make paper airplanes

Step 5: Fold both edges down to meet the bottom fold.

Dart paper plane

You finished the dart plane!

Finished orange dart paper airplane on black and white alphabet background.

Glider Plane

@weareteachers_ Make a glider paper airplane! #paperairplane #diy #funforkids ♬ A 3-minute song that is ideal for the BGM of cooking videos(1031572) – mi-ya

How to fold a glider plane step 1. Green paper folded in half lengthwise

Step 3: Fold the paper in half lengthwise along the existing crease.

How to fold a glider plane step 3. Green paper folded in half lengthwise Green paper folded in half lengthwise and top corners folded to center and folded in half again.

Step 4: Fold both edges down to meet the bottom fold.

How to fold a glider plane step 4. Green paper folded in half lengthwise Green paper with one wing folded

Step 5: Fold the bottom of both wings up to meet the top fold.

Step 5 of how to make a paper airplane. Green plane fully folded.

You finished the glider plane!

Fished green glider plane after following direction for how to make paper airplanes.- how to make paper airplanes

Stunt Plane

@weareteachers_ Make a stunt paper airplane! #paperairplane #diy #funforkids ♬ The song is bright and has a sense of speed from the second half. – Syatk

Fold the paper in half lengthwise.

Step 3: Fold the top point down to touch the bottom of the folded edge.

Blue paper folded

You finished the stunt plane!

Blue stunt paper airplane on a black and white alphabet background.

Paper Airplane Printable Directions

Three paper airplane printables on a blue background.

Ready to save and print your free paper airplane printable directions? Just click the orange button to fill out the form at the top of this page.

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How to Make an Origami Airplane

Last Updated: January 3, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Robert Homayoon . Robert Homayoon is an Origami Expert known for his engaging YouTube videos and accessible instructions. He has been teaching origami on YouTube since 2009. His channel has a following of over 676,000 subscribers, and his videos have garnered over 211 million views. Robert uses his channel to highlight his passion for teaching people origami, crafts, and how to solve puzzles. He graduated from SUNY Albany in 2007 and earned his D.M.D degree from Temple University Dental School in 2013. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 99,566 times.

Origami is the Japanese art of paper folding. [1] X Research source The classic origami plane is made from a single piece of rectangular paper and consists of four parts: the nose (front), body, wings, and tail (back). After you master the basic design, get some friends together and stage flying competitions to see how far your plane can fly or how long it can stay in the air.The world record for flight distance is 226 feet 10 inches, and 27.9 seconds for flight time. [2] X Research source

Making a Classic Origami Airplane

Making an origami jet.

  • The opposite of a valley fold is a mountain fold, where the paper is folded to form an upside-down "V". [8] X Research source www.origami-resource-center.com/mountain-fold.html
  • Compare the flight distance and speed of your origami jet to your origami plane.

Making an Origami Hang Glider

  • Pair of scissors.
  • Three metal twist ties
  • Scotch tape
  • Using scissors, cut one of the two large triangles along the outer black lines. Save the second triangle to give to a friend so they can make their own origami hang glider.
  • Cut a small notch along the thick black lines at the base (longest side) of both triangles.
  • Once the template is secured, cut around the outer edges of the triangle making sure it remains connected to the underlying paper.
  • There are three valley folds. One line runs parallel to the base, and the other two are located at each end of the first line.
  • There are three mountain folds. One bisects the top edge of the triangle, and the other two run parallel to the sides of the triangle.
  • Have the template facing you at all times so you can orient yourself according to these folds.
  • Once these have been folded outwards, pinch the mountain fold at the top of the triangle.
  • Pinch along all three mountain lines, stopping at the end of the lines or where they intersect with a valley fold.
  • Make sure the folds are crisp and symmetrical.
  • Cut out the square labeled 'Front Weight Stabilizer'. Use this to cut-out a square from the same piece of lightweight paper you used to build the glider.
  • Cut away the plastic covering on the metal twist tie until it is just a thin, metal wire. You can do this by cutting along the wire and scrape-off any remaining covering with your fingernails.
  • Place a small piece of tape (no more than 1/2 inch) on one end of the wire. Tape the wire to one of the corners of your paper square.
  • Place the paper square on a thick book so the corner with the wire is at the edge of the book. The wire should extend out from the edge of the book and have no support.
  • If the wire tips down, then it is too heavy. Use scissors to cut-off small pieces of the wire until it only slightly tips.
  • If the wire is perfectly balanced, it might be too light. You can make it heavier by adding tiny pieces of tape to the end not attached to the paper.
  • Turn the glider over so the side with the template is facing down.
  • Attach a small, square (ca. 1/2 inch) piece of tape to one end of the wire.
  • Tape the wire so it exactly follows the fold that forms the nose of the glider. Attach it so the corners of the tape match-up exactly to the front edge.
  • Turn the glider over and refold the front so the crease supports the wire. It is okay if there is a slight bend to either side of the fold. This gives the glider strength.
  • Place the plane in the cover of heavy book.
  • Push the vertical stabilizers down so they are not damaged.
  • Close the cover and press down for 5 to 10 seconds.
  • This will improve the camber by creating a more gentle curvature.
  • If this angle is less than 20 degrees, increase the angle by bending it slightly forwards.
  • Check that the angle on both ends is equal.
  • Refold the vertical stabilizers so they form a 90 degree angle with the body of the glider.
  • Separate the template from the paper if you haven't already. Bend the end of the wire up until it forms a small hook. Be careful not to tear the paper or disturb any of the folds.
  • Use the wire hook to pick-up and carry your glider.
  • Do not pick-up your glider from the back. This can damage the vertical stabilizers or the back flap of the glider, known as the elevon which is important for roll and pitch. [8] X Trustworthy Source NASA Independent agency of the U.S. government in charge of the aerospace research and the space program Go to source
  • Use scissors to cut along the curved line in the back, and cut-off the pointed tips of the stabilizers along the solid black line.
  • Walk behind your glider and gently wave a piece of cardboard that is at least 1.5 by 1.5 feet underneath it. This will help keep your glider in motion.

Expert Q&A

Robert Homayoon

  • A heavier aircraft is better for flying outdoors since the added weight helps decrease the effect of wind. You can increase weight by adding paperclips to the nose or wings. [9] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Throw the plane by finding your plane's center of gravity (near the nose where the most layers overlap) and pinching it between your thumb and index finger. Hold it parallel to the ground or angle it slightly upward. Toss it using a smooth, straight pushing motion. [10] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Hold and pick-up your plane from the nose. You risk damaging the wings if you pick it up from the tail. Thanks Helpful 20 Not Helpful 6

how to make a professional paper plane

  • Do not aim your plane or glider at people or pets. The edges of the plane are sharp and can injure eyes or cause paper cuts. Thanks Helpful 8 Not Helpful 3

Things You'll Need

  • Airplane and jet: smooth piece of computer paper with no creases or wrinkles, 2-3 paperclips (optional).
  • Glider: lightweight paper, scissors, metal twist tie, pen, and glider template.

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how to make a professional paper plane

Expert Interview

how to make a professional paper plane

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about origami, check out our in-depth interview with Robert Homayoon .

  • ↑ https://www.janm.org/exhibits/foldingpaper/
  • ↑ https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/how-fold-world-record-setting-paper-airplane-180953417/?no-ist
  • ↑ https://www.yale.edu/ynhti/curriculum/units/1988/6/88.06.02.x.html#d
  • ↑ https://www.origami-make.com/origami-jet-plane-easy.php
  • ↑ https://www.origami-make.com/origami-fold-valley.php
  • ↑ www.origami-resource-center.com/mountain-fold.html
  • ↑ https://sciencetoymaker.org/hangGlider/
  • ↑ ( https://www.nasa.gov/pdf/205703main_Delta_Wing_Glider.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.origami-instructions.com/paper-airplanes.html
  • ↑ https://channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/going-deep-with-david-rees/interactives/getting-graphically-deep-with-david-rees-how-to-throw-a-paper-airplane/

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How to Make a Paper Airplane (Just for the Fun of It!)

how to make a professional paper plane

No matter if you are gifted at origami or not, it’s likely you’ve tried to make a paper airplane in the past. We can certainly say that although we always tried our hardest, our paper planes always failed.

Even though they might seem simple at first, there are plenty of different tips and tricks you can use to create fast and far-flying paper airplanes.

Below are our favorite tutorials to use for days when you want to get a little creative and have some extra paper lying around your house.

1.  The Bulldog Dart

The Bulldog Dart

Much like its name suggests, this paper airplane tutorial is fantastic for making a darting plane that will shoot from one end of the room to the other.  With that said, it’s one of the more basic designs but it isn’t recommended for exceptional style.

We highly recommend using this tutorial as a warm-up for the more complicated tutorials below. It’s also a fantastic way to get your kids into the art of making paper airplanes.

✓ First, you’ll want to fold your paper in half lengthwise and then unfold it. This will be the very first crease that you’ll use as a guideline for the next folds.

✓ Taking the two top corners, fold them so that they meet together at the center crease. This is one of the most common steps, as you’ve likely done it before when making paper airplanes as a kid.

✓ Turning the plane over, take the corners and fold them again so that they meet a the middle crease.

✓ Using the top point, fold it down so that the tip meets where the other two folds come together.

✓ Next, fold the entire plane in half and this is what will create the snub nose on the plane.

✓ On the right side of the plane, fold down the wing so that it makes a straight line across from the snub nose. You can then flip the plane over and do the same for the left side.

✓ At this point, your plane should be more than ready for flight!

Full tutorial

2. The Professional

The Professional

With an appearance that is quite similar to traditional paper airplanes, The Professional is highly recommended as an intermediate tutorial.

It’s not as simple as the snub nose but certainly isn’t as complicated as some of the other paper airplanes on this list. It rates highest for speed and distance but isn’t recommended for stunts.

✓ Fold the top half of your paper to meet the bottom half.

✓ Bring the bottom right corner of the top half of the paper to the center. Repeat this process for the left corner as well. At this point, you should have a triangle that is upside down.

✓ Take the top right corner and fold it to the bottom point of the triangle, repeat this step for the left corner as well.

✓ Unfold both of the two corners you just folded and make sure you have two diagonal creases on both sides of the paper.

✓ Taking the very top corner of each side of the paper, fold them down to create a second diagonal crease.

✓ Taking the bottom point of the triangle, fold it upwards so that it “holds” both folded corners together.

✓ Turn the paper over and fold the left half to the right half, making sure the ends meet perfectly. You can then fold each edge down to create a wing for both sides.

✓ Turn the airplane over again and fold the wings so that they meet perfectly together. You can then take the edge of each wing and fold it down to create a fin.

✓ Unfold the wings and make sure the fins are pointing upwards before allowing your plane to take flight!

3. The Stealth

The Stealth

Compared to The Professional, The Stealth is a great beginner project that will give you maximum flight. It’s one of the least useful paper airplanes for tricks, but it’s surely one of the best for distance.

Not to mention it looks fantastic when you have it all put together. This is another tutorial that we highly recommend for kids who are just starting to get into building their own paper planes.

✓ Taking your paper, fold it in half vertically and then unfold it.

✓ Take the top right and top left corners, folding them down together to meet at the center crease.

✓ Fold the peak of the plane towards you so that it’s approximately ¾” from the very bottom of the paper.

✓ Take both of the new corners and fold them so that they meet at the center line.

✓ The remaining tip can then be folded over the two flaps in the middle to help hold them in place.

✓ Take the bottom edge of the plane and fold it away from you.

✓ Take each of the wings and fold them down approximately 1” from the bottom of the plane. You can also take the sides of each wing and fold them so they are about ½” tall.

✓ Using scissors, you can cut two small slits at the bottom of each wing to create tabs that you will then fold up.

✓ We also recommend using double-sided tape on the inside of the plane’s body. This helps to create the most seamless design, you will also find that taping the body together will make it much more aerodynamic. This is a fantastic trick for all different types of paper airplanes you create.

✓ Now your stealth plane should be ready for flight.

When it comes to finding ways to fold paper planes, you can guarantee there is a limitless list of different folding methods and techniques.

As a hobby that many people around the world take seriously, it’s a soothing and creative activity for the whole family. Regardless of your skill level, we highly recommend testing all three of these tutorials out to determine what your skill level is.

When you improve, you can begin to look into more advanced paper airplanes such as the Swashbuckler, the Nakamura Lock, and even the Star Crusher. For even more excitement, consider decorating the airplanes and using them as display pieces in your home.

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how to make a professional paper plane

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  • DIY & Crafts 10
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how to make a professional paper plane

Paper Airplanes HQ

How to make paper airplanes, detailed fold and fly instructions for 50 awesome designs.

Paper airplane in hand

Over 50 flying paper airplane designs with written and video step-by-step folding instructions. All classes of paper airplanes are represented from darts to gliders to jets to schoolyard contest winners. There are models that look really cool, or fly super far or stay aloft for extend periods of time.

Professor Origami logo

How To Make A Paper Plane That Returns: 12 Step Guide For Beginners

Who doesn’t love paper planes!? There is something just so entertaining and awesome about folding a piece of paper into something that can literally fly through the air!

There are many different types of paper airplanes and today I am going to cover a very special one! Today you are going to learn how to make a paper plane that returns right to you! If that sound awesome then just keep scrolling and let’s get started!

How To Make A Paper Plane That Returns Video Walkthrough

There you have it! After watching this video you should have easily been able to follow along and have a sweet new paper plane in front of you! As always get as creative as you would like with this. Use any colored paper you want and make your paper plane unique. You can draw on your plane but I’ll warn you that it could affect the plane’s performance if you do.

That’s why I recommend making a few of them! Make a couple just to decorate and make them look awesome and a few more for taking flight! Now, if you prefer learning a different way other than through a video, I have also prepared some easy-to-follow illustrated instructions on how to make a paper plane that returns down below! 

If you enjoyed this design, make sure to check out all my other Origami Vehicles !

How To Make A Paper Plane That Returns Step-By-Step Instructions

1. creating the initial triangle.

how to make a professional paper plane

Take a full-sized sheet of printer paper and lay it vertically. Take the top two corners of the paper and fold them down to meet in the middle of the page, creating a triangle. This will initiate the formation of the paper plane’s front.

2. Folding the Top Point Downward

how to make a professional paper plane

Take the top point of the paper and fold it all the way down to meet the bottom of the page. Use the dotted line in the image above as a reference.

3. Unfolding to Reveal a Crease

how to make a professional paper plane

At this stage, your paper should resemble the image in the image above. Now, undo the last fold so that you have a clean crease remaining.

4. Aligning the Top Point with the Crease

how to make a professional paper plane

Repeat the previous step, but this time fold the top point down so that the two corners, as circled in the image above, line up directly with the crease made in step 3.

5. Folding Top Corners Inward

how to make a professional paper plane

This is what it should look like. Now take both of the top corners and fold them down to meet in the middle as you did in the first step. 

6. Securing the Folds with the Point

how to make a professional paper plane

Now take the little point that is sticking out from under your last fold and fold it upwards over the dotted line as shown above. This should hold down the folds you made in the previous step.

7. Flipping the Paper Over

how to make a professional paper plane

Carefully flip the paper over.

8. Folding the Paper Plane in Half

how to make a professional paper plane

You should now see the back of your paper plane. Fold it in half by taking the left side and folding it over to the right side, as shown above.

9. Creating the First Wing

how to make a professional paper plane

Turn the plane to where the longest edge is closest to you. Use the image above to copy what it should look like. Now take the top flap and fold it down lining it up with the top corner of the small fold you made in step 6. Use the dotted line above as a reference to create the first wing.

10. Creating the Second Wing

how to make a professional paper plane

Repeat the same fold on the other side to create the second plane wing. Ensure that the wings are aligned with each other.

11. Adding Flaps to the Wings

how to make a professional paper plane

Take the bottom of each wing and fold it up to create small flaps on the end of each wing. They should be about half an inch wide.

12. Adjusting the Wing Tips and Finalizing

how to make a professional paper plane

Lastly, slightly pinch the back of the wings upwards where the circles are in the image above. After that, you are done! Your final paper airplane should resemble the image above. Tilt the plane to the side you want it to return to when you throw it for the best results!

You should be nothing short of a pro at making this epic plane! You have now gone through video instructions and illustrated ones as well!

Make sure you make this design a few times to really master and perfect it! Below you’ll find the same instructions as above but in a downloadable and printable format just in case you need it for future reference!

How To Make A Paper Plane That Returns Printable Instructions

That’s all for this guide on how to make a paper plane that returns. Be sure to check out my other origami creations and continue learning the art of origami!

Once you have mastered this design, you can try creating more advanced planes with unique shapes and movements. Most importantly, have fun flying your new planes!

Related Posts

Check out my other origami designs and sharpen your paper folding skills!

How To Make A Paper Airplane For Kids: Step-By-Step Illustrated Guide

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Final paper plane design for how to make a paper airplane for kids post.

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Follow these simple instructions and you'll be able to create your own floating origami boat in no time!...

Final product for how to make an origami boat that floats tutorial.

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  1. How to make a Paper Plane Professional for Expert-Level Flights

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Share No views 1 minute ago #PaperPlaneProfessional #AdvancedPaperAirplane #OrigamiExpert Elevate your paper aviation skills with the Paper Plane Professional! 🛫🏆 This...

  2. How to Make the World's Best Paper Airplanes

    1. First you fold the paper in half lengthwise, and then unfold. This initial crease is simply a guideline for the next folds. 2. Fold the top two corners down so they meet the center crease. This is the classic way to start a paper airplane, and probably what you first learned as a kid. 3.

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    "the professional" is AWESOME!!!You should really make this, it is a lot of fun to play around with.Also i do not take any credits for this design.remember t...

  4. How to Make a Paper Airplane: 12 Steps (with Pictures)

    1 Crease a piece of letter-sized paper in half lengthwise. Get a piece of printer paper that's a rectangle and lay it on a flat surface. Fold the paper in half lengthwise so the paper looks like a long rectangle. Crease the fold with your fingernail before unfolding the paper again. [1]

  5. Fold 'N Fly » Paper Airplane Folding Instructions

    About Fold'NFly. For more than 10 years, Fold'NFly has been teaching people around the world how to make paper airplanes.Our extensive database of designs includes step-by-step instructions, video guides and printable templates where you simply fold on the numbered lines to get a perfect paper plane, every time.. In addition to the paper airplane plans, we have a collection of expert tips ...

  6. How to fold a paper airplane: Step-by-step instructions

    1. Fold the paper in half, with the crease longwise down the middle. For a balanced plane, take your time, carefully matching up the opposing edges. Then unfold it as if you are opening a book. 2 ...

  7. How to Make a Fast Paper Airplane: 15 Steps (with Pictures)

    1 Start with a flat sheet of paper. Grab a sheet of paper and lay it in front of you on a flat surface. Make sure the paper you're using doesn't already have any folds, creases or wrinkles in it, as this can compromise the completed plane's ability to fly.

  8. How to Make a Perfect Paper Airplane: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Basic Fold Now that you have your materials ready, it's time to start folding! The basic fold is the foundation for all paper airplane designs. Here's how to do it: Take a piece of paper and fold it in half vertically. Crease the fold with your fingers or a ruler to make it sharp.

  9. How to Make the Best Paper Airplane

    1. Fold paper in half lengthwise on a straight line. 2. Fold top right corner into the middle of the paper. The edge should line up along the center line. 3. Repeat Step #2 with the top left corner coming into the middle crease. Both of the top corners should be folded down at this point. 4.

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    How to Make a Paper Airplane? If you want to know how to fold a paper airplane with the best design, you can check out this page for easy step-by-step paper airplane instructions, and you will be amazed at the outcome of the paper airplane you made.

  11. How to Make a Paper Airplane

    Fold the paper in half vertically. Unfold the paper and fold each of the top corners into the center line. Fold the top edges into the center line. Fold the plane in half toward you. Fold the wings down, matching the top edges up with the bottom edge of the body. Add double stick tape to the inside of the body.

  12. How to Design Your Own Paper Airplane

    What are the keys to designing high-performance paper airplanes? In this video we'll examine some successful designs to find out!Subscribe:https://www.youtub...

  13. How To Make a Paper Airplane: 3 Ways (With Photos)

    Step 2: Open the folded paper and lay it back flat on the table. Step 3: Fold the top left corner in towards the middle crease you just made. When lined up where you would like it, press down on ...

  14. How To Make Paper Airplanes (Free Printable)

    Step 4: Fold the paper in half lengthwise along the existing crease. Step 5: Fold both edges down to meet the bottom fold. You finished the stunt plane! Paper Airplane Printable Directions. Ready to save and print your free paper airplane printable directions? Just click the orange button to fill out the form at the top of this page.

  15. How to Make a Paper Airplane

    Instructions: Fold the paper in half lengthwise. Open the paper back up. Fold the top outside corners down to meet the center line. Fold the top point down to just below the doubled paper, keeping the point at the center fold. Bring the top left corner in to meet the center fold, about 3/4 inch above the point.

  16. 3 Ways to Make an Origami Airplane

    Make a horizontal valley fold. In origami,a valley fold is when you fold the paper in half so it forms a 'V'. [5] Unfold the paper. 3. Fold the top and bottom sides into the center. There should be three horizontal creases that divide the paper into four equal sections. 4. Make a vertical valley fold. 5.

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    This is one of the most common steps, as you've likely done it before when making paper airplanes as a kid. Turning the plane over, take the corners and fold them again so that they meet a the middle crease. Using the top point, fold it down so that the tip meets where the other two folds come together. Next, fold the entire plane in half and ...

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    How to Make Paper Airplanes Detailed fold and fly instructions for 50 Awesome designs Over 50 flying paper airplane designs with written and video step-by-step folding instructions. All classes of paper airplanes are represented from darts to gliders to jets to schoolyard contest winners.

  20. How To Make A Paper Plane That Returns: 12 Step Guide For Beginners

    1. Creating the Initial Triangle. Take a full-sized sheet of printer paper and lay it vertically. Take the top two corners of the paper and fold them down to meet in the middle of the page, creating a triangle. This will initiate the formation of the paper plane's front. 2.

  21. How To Make 5 EASY Paper Airplanes that FLY FAR

    Subscribe for more amazing videos! https://bit.ly/33SNrhK BEST PAPER AIRPLANES ANYONE CAN MAKEMake the 5 best paper airplanes with this EASY step by step...

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