Begin your origami lily by folding the square paper in half vertically along the dotted line. This fundamental fold establishes the first axis of symmetry that will guide the entire flower creation process. Professional origami artists recommend using the pad of your finger to crease from the center outward for the cleanest result. Open the paper flat again after making this crease—it will serve as an important reference line for subsequent folds.

Fold your square paper diagonally by bringing one corner to the opposite corner. This diagonal fold creates the diamond shape that forms the foundation for your origami lily structure. Japanese origami masters emphasize the importance of precise alignment at this stage for a symmetrical finished flower. Press firmly along the entire fold line to create a sharp crease that will serve as a guide throughout the folding process.

Create another diagonal fold by bringing the left corner to the right corner of your diamond shape. This crucial fold establishes the second axis of symmetry necessary for creating the lily’s balanced petal arrangement. Popular origami flower tutorials highlight this step as essential for creating the geometric framework of the lily. After making this crease, your paper should now have both diagonal folds clearly marked, forming an X pattern.

Fold the bottom half of the diamond upward along the dotted line as shown in the diagram. This fold begins transforming the flat diamond into the three-dimensional structure needed for your origami lily. Traditional origami lily designs rely on this precise horizontal fold to establish the correct proportions for the flower. Apply even pressure across the fold line to create a clean crease that will define the lily’s base structure.

Ensure the horizontal fold from the previous step is firmly creased and properly aligned. This reinforcement step is critical for creating stable, well-defined petals in your finished origami lily. Expert paper folders emphasize the importance of this foundation fold for supporting the more complex folds to come. Take time to verify all existing creases are sharp and precise before moving to the more intricate folding stages.

Begin forming the lily’s petals by folding one layer of paper diagonally as indicated by the arrow. This specialized fold initiates the petal structure that gives the origami lily its characteristic floral appearance. The angle and position of this fold directly influence how elegant your finished flower will appear when completed. Ensure you’re only folding one layer of paper at this stage to properly develop the lily’s delicate petal structure.

Extend the petal fold further by following the directional arrow to create more definition. This progressive folding technique builds dimension and realistic contours into your origami lily petals. Japanese paper flower traditions emphasize these incremental folds that transform flat paper into lifelike botanical forms. Apply gentle pressure to avoid tearing the paper while creating the natural-looking curves that define lily petals.

Complete the formation of one section of petals by finalizing the fold indicated in the previous step. This critical stage establishes the three-dimensional quality that makes your origami lily look realistic. Advanced origami lily tutorials always emphasize this step for creating the natural opening effect of blooming flowers. Repeat this process with the remaining sections to create the lily’s complete petal arrangement.

Gently shape and separate all petals to complete your beautiful origami lily flower. The finished model should display elegant, outward-curving petals with a dimensional center characteristic of real lilies. Your paper lily now captures the essence of this classic flower through the artful application of origami techniques. For display, slightly adjust the petals outward to create the appearance of a fully bloomed flower or keep them more closed for a budding lily.