Find a design for the hand fan. Search for an image online, or draw an image using a graphics program. Print out the image on a thick grade of paper. The thicker the paper, the more sturdy the fan will be. As an alternative, draw images on a colorful piece of construction paper.
Place the paper lengthwise. Round the corners of top side of the paper with scissors to create a rounder, more elegant shape for the top of the fan.
Fold the paper vertically, accordion-style. Make the folds 1/2 to 1 inch wide.
Bunch the bottom of the fan together to form the handle. Bind the bottom of the paper with a staple or sticky tape. For more decoration, tie a colorful string or ribbon around the bottom of the paper.