How to Make a Fun and Versatile Zine (No Staples Needed)

How to Make a Simple One-Page Zine (No Staples Needed!)

Looking for a quick and creative art project? Making a zine from a single sheet of A4 paper is a fun way to turn your ideas into a mini book—with no binding, staples, or glue required. All you need is a piece of A4 paper, scissors, and your imagination!

What is a Zine?

A zine (short for magazine or fanzine) is a small, self-published booklet that’s perfect for sharing stories, drawings, poems, or even tiny comics. Artists and writers have used zines for decades to express themselves in personal, affordable ways.

Materials Needed:

One sheet of A4 paper
Scissors
Pens, pencils, or markers for decorating

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Fold the Paper in Half (Lengthwise)

Fold your A4 paper in half hot dog style (along the long edge).
Crease the fold well, then unfold.

2. Fold in Half (Widthwise)

Now fold the same paper hamburger style (along the short edge).
Crease and leave folded.

3. Fold the Top Edge Down

With the paper still folded, fold the top edge down to meet the bottom.
You should now have a paper folded into quarters.

4. Unfold Everything

Unfold the paper completely. You should see 8 rectangular sections created by the folds.

5. Cut the Center Fold

Fold the paper in half again hamburger style.
Use scissors to cut along the center fold, just between the two middle sections—only to the center of the page. This cut will form the slit that allows the zine to fold into a book.

6. Fold Into a Book

Unfold the paper, then refold it hot dog style.
Hold the edges and push inward so the cut center opens up like a diamond or “mouth.”
Keep pushing until it folds into a plus shape, then fold into a booklet.

You now have an 8-page zine!

Tips for Your First Zine:

Number the pages lightly in pencil before adding your content to avoid confusion.
Use each page for something different—drawings, poetry, short stories, collage, or even a comic strip.
Make copies: Scan your finished zine and print it out to share with friends!

Final Thoughts

This simple folding technique is great for classrooms, workshops, or solo projects. It’s easy to do, eco-friendly, and incredibly versatile. Try making a series or swapping with friends to build a zine library!