Origami Cup

The most handy origami model I ever learned was the cup.  Truly functional art.  It involves 6 simple folds, and it can hold liquids.  I wouldn't recommend anything hot, and make sure your paper won't absorb the liquid to quickly.  If nothing else, it makes a great shotglass.

Begin with a square piece of paper, and fold in half diagonally.  This should create a triangle.  If it doesn't, try harder.

Take one of the lower edges, and fold it across the model to the opposite side, halfway between the other corners.  It should create a horizontal line on the top edge.

Do the same process with the other lower corner, meeting up the top edges of this and the last fold.  The corner should meet the corner that was created in the last step.  Notice that there is a little pocket created in this fold, along the top edge.

There is a triangle on the top of the model with two flaps.  The cup will be the area between the two flaps.  Take the top flap and fold it towards you.

Take that flap, and slide it into the pocket created in the previous step.

The remaining flap on the top should be folded behind the model.  Put your finger between those two flaps and push on the edges of the model.  The cup will take shape.

The finished model holds water, dirt, seeds, sand, or anything else that might slip through your fingers.  With a little work you can make them square and flat on the bottom, which will help them to stand up on their own.

I look for shiny paper to use for origami cups, since water takes a little longer to penetrate the surface.  If your paper is too thin to hold water, fold it into quarters before beginning.

Remember.... drink responsibly.