Who knew that the art of divination was as simple as unfolding paper to reveal your destiny? Sure, the Paper Fortune Teller is a children’s game, but the sense of choice we’re given reflects the idea that the smallest decisions alter the course of our lives.

The design dates back to the 1928 American origami book ‘Fun with Paper Folding’, where it was introduced as a “Salt Cellar” for holding seasoning. By the 1950s, this device had become a staple of school playgrounds in England - not for salt holding, but for revealing one’s future.

Also known as the cootie catcher, chatterbox, whirlybird or paku-paku, the Paper Fortune Teller requires some paper, a little bit of origami know-how, a pen or pencil and a willing victim (ahem - client.)