open · Team Building, Creative Challenge · 20–60 min · 10-200 people · medium energy
Paper Cranes
Paper Cranes is a team-building activity that combines individual reflection with collaborative creation. Participants explore personal wishes and then work together to fold paper cranes, culminating in a shared art installation that symbolizes collective aspirations.
When to use Paper Cranes
Use this method to foster connection, encourage teamwork, and create a memorable shared experience, especially during team offsites or workshops where a sense of unity and purpose is desired.
What it solves
Siloed teams lacking a shared sense of purpose, difficulty connecting on a personal level, need for a creative and engaging team activity.
How to run Paper Cranes, step by step
- Individual Wish Reflection (5 mins): Ask participants to individually consider three wishes for the year, relating to their life, work, or the world.
- Small Group Sharing (8 mins): Have participants share their wishes in small groups (pairs or groups of 6), fostering connection and understanding.
- Crane Folding Challenge (20-40 mins): Challenge groups to fold a specific number of paper cranes, providing instructions (written or video) and encouraging collaboration.
- Crane Hanging & Celebration (10 mins): Facilitate the hanging of the cranes to create a collective art piece, celebrating the team's accomplishment and reinforcing the symbolism of shared wishes.
Materials needed
- Origami paper
- Strings for hanging
- Scissors (optional)
- Pens (optional, for writing wishes on the paper)
- Printed or digital origami folding instructions
- Space for hanging the cranes
- Music (optional)
Facilitator tips
- Prepare materials in advance by creating 'goodie bags' for each group.
- Adjust the number of cranes to be folded based on group size and time available.
- Use music to create a positive and engaging atmosphere during the folding and hanging phases.
- Consider adding a reflection moment to discuss teamwork, communication, and leadership observed during the activity.
Common pitfalls
- Lack of clear instructions for origami folding can lead to frustration. Provide detailed instructions and support.
- Uneven participation can occur if some team members dominate the folding process. Encourage everyone to contribute.
- The activity can feel disconnected from work if the wish reflection is not tied to team goals. Frame the wishes in a relevant context.
Variations
- For smaller groups, create one large crane instead of many small ones.
- Use different craft materials to add variety and personalization.
- Incorporate a deeper reflection on the meaning of collaboration and shared goals.
Running it online or hybrid
Consider using a shared digital space for wish sharing and a virtual crane-folding tutorial. The final display could be a collaborative digital collage.
What it produces
A collaborative art installation of paper cranes, representing the collective wishes of the team.
Origin
Inspired by Tom Goulooze at WeTransfer — source
Build a session around Paper Cranes
METODIC places Paper Cranes inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.