Making Perfectly Square PaperAnd Other Cutting TipsUnless otherwise specified in the folding instructions, paper for origami must be perfectly square. Or, if some other shape, such as a rectangle or triangle, it will likely need to have been made from paper that started as a perfect square. 
Probably the most well-known method of cutting a square out of a rectangular sheet of paper is the technique of folding one corner to meet the opposite edge. >This method relies, first, on the paper having two perpendicular edges and, second, on you folding one of those edges to the other. If you want a smaller piece of paper, this method probably won't work. 
To avoid the diagonal crease, you can lay one sheet on top of the other and mark the lower sheet. > 
When relying on a fold line for cutting, it might be helpful to have a pencil line as your guide. Use a ruler to mark the line. < Or hold the paper folded on the cut line and run a fine-tipped pencil down the crease. We like a mechanical-style pencil and a clear ruler for marking. 
Sarah, age 10, the writer for our kids' page, shares her tips for tearing paper on our Especially for Kids page. Return to Origami Basics and Tips from Making Perfectly Square Paper
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Our Number One favorite tool for cutting is this 12 in / 30 cm Premium Crafter’s Trimmer by Fiskars™.