Create your main character. Describe how your character looks. Draw your character on a piece of paper to help you imagine him or her. Then, once you have a clear picture of your character, think about his or her personality. Decide what message you want your folktale to give your reader.
Folktales often explain a phenomenon in the world, or tell a lesson about human nature.
As you begin planning your folktale, think about what moral or lesson you want your story to tell. The way your plot develops will depend on this message. Plan your plot. Then, it's time to begin revising. Here are some tips I always find helpful when I begin revising my own work.