Carnations are the flower of affection—Mother's Day, anniversaries, "just because"—and this little origami version captures their ruffled charm in only eight steps. One square, a few folds front and back, and a single snip at the end is all it takes.

The finished bloom holds its shape nicely, so it's perfect for cards, bouquets, or a paper vase that never needs water. Let's fold a few.

STEP 1. Fold the paper in half.

STEP 2. Fold it in half again.

STEP 3. Open and fold as shown in the picture.

STEP 4. Fold the back side the same way.

STEP 5. Fold it at the position shown in the photo.

STEP 6. Fold the back side the same way.

STEP 7. Cut with scissors.

STEP 8. Open and fold as shown in the picture.

Completion!

Your carnation is complete.