The pelican is a comical, endearing bird, and this little origami version captures its character with a long reverse-folded neck and wings that let it sit up on its own. It's a quick, satisfying fold that's great for beginners — in just nine steps you'll go from a square of paper to a bird resting proudly on its outstretched wings. Kids especially love the moment it 'comes to life' and sits up at the end.

Step 1. Start with the white side of the paper facing up. Fold in half along the line shown, then unfold.

Step 2. Fold the outer corners into the center line and crease well.

Step 3. Fold the outer edges into the center once again.

Step 4. Turn the model over and fold the bottom point up to the top point. Crease very well.

Step 5. Fold in half.

Step 6. Rotate the model so it is lying down.

Step 7. Raise the inside triangle upward slowly, then flatten and crease well.

Step 8. Inside-reverse-fold the head along the crease shown.

Step 9. Fold each wing upward as shown, then fold it back slightly. The pelican will now rest on its wings and sit up.

And there’s your finished pelican!