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Printable paper hat

The paper soldier hat in five folds. A printer sheet makes a doll-size hat; to fit a head, repeat the steps with a sheet of newspaper.

Preview of the printable sheet: Paper hat

In the print window, set the paper to A4 or Letter and the scale to 100%.

You will need
  • 1 sheet of paper for the template and 1 for the step-by-step guide

How do you make a paper hat?

Fold the sheet in half, top to bottom, with the fold at the top. Mark the center and bring the two top corners to that line: you get a triangle above a strip. Fold the front strip up, turn the paper over and fold the other strip. Printer paper makes a small hat; newspaper makes one that fits a head.

How to make it

  1. Use the whole sheet. No cutting. Start with the printed side down.
  2. With the printed side down, fold the sheet in half, top to bottom.
  3. Fold in half sideways and unfold, just to mark the center.
  4. Fold the two top corners down to the center line.
  5. Fold the bottom strip up, front layer only.
  6. Turn the paper over and fold the other strip up.
  7. Done! Open it from below.

How to read the lines on the sheet

  • A dashed line is a valley fold: the paper rises on both sides and the line sits at the bottom of the fold.
  • A dash-and-dot line is a mountain fold: fold it away from you, and the line stays on the ridge, on the outside.
  • A solid line is for cutting.
  • The number on each line shows the step where you fold it. Some folds have no line because they are hidden; the second sheet shows them all.

Tips for a clean fold

  • The fold from the first step stays at the top: the two corners come from it.
  • Let the two corners meet right on the center line, with no gap.
  • To keep the hat closed, fold the small ends of the strip back or use tape.
  • To fit a child, use a double sheet of newspaper and follow the same steps.

Ways to play

  • Decorate the hat with a paper feather or a drawing on the front.
  • Make hats for the dolls and hold a parade.
  • Keep folding and turn the hat into a boat.

Frequently asked questions

Does the hat from a printer sheet fit a head?

No. With A4 paper the opening is about 21 cm long, which suits dolls. To wear it, use a sheet of newspaper.

Which side faces out?

The printed side. That is why the sheet starts with the printed side down.

Can it become a boat?

Yes. The paper boat starts with this same hat and continues with four more steps.

How do I print it at the right size?

In the print window, choose A4 paper and set the scale to 100%. Plain copy paper is the best choice for folding.

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