Introduction to Real Paper Snowflakes

Many people know that a true snowflake always has six sides, but many do not know how to fold the paper to get a six sided paper snowflake. There are two ways, and both are equally good. Both start with a square piece of paper. The more even/perfect the square, the more equal your snowflake will turn out.

If you already know how to make a basic six sided snowflake, skip to the tutorials on different styles and designs for help, tips, and ideas!

To begin, fold in half either to make a triangle or a rectangle.

For the first, we'll make a triangle. Fold the triangle in half again, then fold one side from the center point at 60 degrees. (A protractor may be helpful, or after a while you'll get good at eyeballing the right place.) Then, take the other side and fold onto the first side for something that looks like an ice cream cone. Cut off the tips that don't include all the layers of paper at the top of the ice cream cone. This is the basic six sided snowflake model. :)
This video shows the process well:
YouTube: How To Make Picture Perfect Paper Snowflakes.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTBh8pLfaFs&feature=player_embedded#!

The second way uses a rectangle. This is the way that I first learned from my grandma when I was six and it seems easier to me. (after twelve years, it ought to) If the other way seems hard, try this one out and pick your favorite. Both use the same basic principles and techniques.

To make the square using normal printer paper 8 1/2" by 11", I fold a triangle lining up a side edge with the top or bottom edge, (try to get it as close as you can for a perfect square) and cut along the left over side. Take the square, fold into a rectangle, and fold in thirds making a  center point (which should be the middle of the square). I like to use the left over crease line from the triangle as reference for finding a third. You want to fold the first side about half way between the triangle crease line and what would be half of the rectangle. It may take a few tries unless you use a protractor, but I rarely have one with me so the triangle reference fold is useful. :) (Using a protractor, the first fold would be 120 degrees on either side and the second the remaining 60.) Take the resulting ice cream cone and fold it in half to make a thinner ice cream cone. Cut off the tips that don't include all the layers of paper at the top of the ice cream cone.
This, too, is the basic six sided snowflake model. :)

From here, there are many different styles for unique and interesting snowflakes.
If you want to experiment before you cut into your hard earned ice cream cone, try this website and make a virtual snowflake: http://akidsheart.com/holidays/winter/snowflake.htm

Next I'll give tutorials (with pictures this time!) for different styles to help you on your way. :)