How to Make a Cootie Catcher: A Step-by-Step Guide and More
If you grew up in the 90s, you would be familiar with the cootie catcher, a fun game and craft activity that has stood the test of time. You may have made them in school, during break time, or at home with friends and siblings. And if you haven’t yet, here’s your chance to give it a try!
In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions, video tutorials, printable templates, personalized message ideas, advanced designs, and collaborative cootie catchers. So gather your crafting materials and let’s get started!
A Step-by-Step Guide
Making a cootie catcher may seem daunting at first, but it’s actually a straightforward process that can be completed with just a few folds of paper. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start with a square piece of paper, with your preferred color or design facing down. It should be approximately 6 x 6 inches.
- Fold the paper in half diagonally, crease it, and then unfold it.
- Fold the paper diagonally in the opposite direction, crease it, and then unfold it.
- Bring each corner of the paper to the center point, and crease it. The paper should now have four diagonal crease lines.
- Flip the paper over, and fold each corner to the center again, creasing each fold. The paper should now have four horizontal and vertical crease lines, forming a smaller square.
- Fold the smaller square in half, diagonally. Unfold it, and then fold it in half diagonally in the other direction.
- Push each corner of the paper toward the center. The square should form a four-sided pyramid shape, with the flaps meeting in the middle.
- Insert your fingers under the flaps, gently pull them apart, and voila – your cootie catcher is complete!
Here’s a visual guide to help you:
To ensure that your cootie catcher lasts longer, use a heavier weight paper or cardstock. For added durability, cover it with clear tape or laminate it. You can also decorate your cootie catcher with markers, stickers, or cut-out shapes.
Video Tutorial
If you prefer video tutorials over written instructions, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a link to an excellent video tutorial by Red Ted Art that demonstrates how to make a cootie catcher:
The video covers the same steps as the written guide, but with added tips and tricks on making and decorating cootie catchers.
Printable Templates
If you’re looking for premade cootie catcher templates that you can easily print and fold, check out these websites:
Simply choose your desired design, print it out on a sheet of paper, and follow the folding instructions from the previous section.
Don’t forget to decorate your cootie catcher to make it unique to your taste and personality. You can add colors, drawings, or even photos to make it more personal.
Creating Personalized Messages
One of the best parts of making a cootie catcher is filling it with personalized messages to discover with your friends or family. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Pick a color
- Choose a number
- Select a shape
- Give a dare
- Perform an action
- Ask a question
- Share a joke
Remember to personalize your messages based on your audience and occasion. For example, you can tailor your messages around a particular theme, holiday, or event.
Advanced Designs
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to take your cootie catcher game to the next level, check out these advanced designs:
- Tutorials Point’s Batman Cootie Catcher
- Handmade Kids Art’s Butterfly Cootie Catcher
- Instructables’ Geringer Aufriss Cootie Catcher
These designs may require more folding steps and creativity, but the end result is worth it. Remember to follow the instructions closely and use the appropriate tools and materials to ensure success.
Collaborative Cootie Catchers
Finally, you can also make collaborative cootie catchers with your friends or family. Here’s how:
- Get a square piece of paper and fold it in half diagonally.
- Write a message or answer each on one of the triangles on the outside. Then, fold the triangle in so that the two straight edges touch – creating a new edge up the centre.
- On the other side of the paper, write questions or options on each of the triangles and fold them in, so that again there are only the folded edges at the edge of the paper.
- Finally, fold the cootie catcher as usual.
- Pass it around and play with each other to find out the messages and answers.
Collaborative cootie catchers are a fun and easy way to work together and learn more about your friends or family.
Conclusion
Making a cootie catcher is a fun and easy way to pass the time, whether you’re by yourself or with others. With our step-by-step guide, video tutorials, printable templates, personalized message ideas, advanced designs, and collaborative cootie catchers, you have everything you need to get started.
Remember to personalize your cootie catcher with your own designs, colors, and messages and share it with your loved ones.