Introduction
Ninja stars, also known as shuriken, were originally a weapon used by ninjas in feudal Japan. But nowadays, ninja-stars are popular as fun DIY activities worldwide. Making a ninja star has turned into an enjoyable pastime, both for children and adults. In this article, you will learn step-by-step how to make a ninja star using just a few simple materials and tools. So, gather your materials and let’s get started!
Materials and Tools
The materials you need to make a ninja star are:
• Square piece of paper (8.5 x 11 inches or larger)
• Scissors
• Pencil (optional)
It’s essential to use a square sheet of paper to get the perfect shape of the ninja star. You can use a variety of materials like construction paper, printer paper, or even origami paper. However, using lightweight paper makes it easier to fold the paper and results in a finished product that is more comfortable to throw.
Furthermore, the tools you use also matter for a clean-cut look of the star. Ensure that your scissors are sharp for precise cuts to form the ninja star.
Hobby stores, office supply stores, and online stores are some of the places you can buy these materials. Alternatively, you can use a printshop to print square paper without any folding or cutting!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a ninja star:
- Begin by folding the paper in half diagonally to form a triangle. Crease the paper in place, then open it back up and repeat the process, folding it in half diagonally in the other direction. Crease in place, then reopen once again to reveal an X-shaped crease.
- Now, fold each corner to the center of the paper, aligning the tips precisely. Crease the folds firmly.
- Rotate the paper 180 degrees and repeat step 2 with the other corners to form a smaller square.
- Fold the right corner of the square to meet the center crease. Repeat this for the other side.
- Turn the paper over, and then fold the right corner to meet the center crease again. Repeat for the other side.
- Cut the paper in half along the center fold line, and then cut the two rectangles out. You will end up with two flat eight-pointed shapes.
- Take one eight-pointed shape, and then fold the points towards the center of the shape to form a “V” at the tip. Repeat this for all eight sides. This will create four smaller triangles at the tip.
- Now insert each of the four triangles on one eight-pointed shape into the matching slot of the other eight-pointed shape. Interlock this correctly to form a ninja star.
- Finally, crease firmly at all the folds to lock the star into place. You now have your ninja star ready!
For better understanding, we have included diagrams to illustrate each step. Additionally, if you’re struggling with any step, keep practicing, be patient, or watch tutorials available on various websites.
Difficulty Levels
Making a ninja star can vary in difficulty levels, so categorizing them makes it easier for you to know how to approach each level. Here are the three difficulty levels:
- Beginner: Just like the instructions we have provided, this is the most basic form of making a ninja star, and it is easy to make.
- Intermediate: This is a more complex way to make a ninja star, and it may require mastery of the beginner level before moving ahead. For this level, you can try using different materials to get different shapes and sizes of your ninja star.
- Advanced: This level requires precise folding techniques, and creating it can be challenging. You can try experimenting with colors and designs for making an advanced ninja star.
We advise reading through the instructions before starting, practicing the steps and repeating them to get better. Once you’ve got the hang of it, try the advanced level to see how far you can go!
Creative Variations
Making different kinds of ninja stars can be creative and fun. Below are some unique variations to try:
- Multi-pointed star: This variation of a ninja star can have more points than the regular eight points. This can be accomplished by increasing the rectangle size first, cutting a more significant number of points, or by using specific folding techniques to get a different number of points.
- Colorful: You can make a more colorful ninja star by printing different colors, patterns, or designs on the paper before cutting or using colored paper.
Follow similar steps as for the regular eight-pointed ninja star and end up with different-shaped ninja stars. Use or invent different techniques to get unique and original ninja stars.
Games and Fun
Now that your ninja star is complete, you can find games and fun activities to engage in.
- Challenge: Have a competition with friends or family, and see who can make the most ninja stars in the quickest time or make the most creative or most accurate ninja star, etc.
- Decorations: You can use these ninja stars to create cool DIY decorations to show off to your friends and family. A straight line of ninja stars near the window or door would look great during Halloween.
- Costumes: With some paper and glue, you can create fantastic ninja costumes for Halloween or cosplay. The origin of ninja stars is in ninjas, so a ninja star would make any ninja costume more authentic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making a ninja star can be a fun DIY activity for all age groups. The process is simple, and you can use household materials like paper and scissors. Remember to choose the right materials, follow the instructions and keep practicing. You can also explore variations and play games to make it more interesting.
