The kite base is probably the easiest origami base form to fold, which makes it a great place to start learning more about the art of paper folding. Whenever I am teaching origami to a group of children, I always use a model that involves the kite base form.

The kite base gets its name from the fact that it resembles a traditional kite shape. To make a kit base, start with the colored side of your paper face down. Fold the paper in half diagonally, then unfold. Fold each of the corners in to meet the center crease to complete the kite base form.

The origami swan is one example of a beginner level project using the kite base.

To make an origami swan:

1. Create your kite base form.
2. Turn your paper over. Fold both of the long edges of the kite base in to meet the vertical center crease.
3. Make the beak of the swan by folding the bottom point up to meet the top of your paper, then folding it down again slightly.
4. Rotate your paper 90 degrees to the left. Fold it in half with a mountain fold. Easy the next up and into position to complete the model.