The model starts from a fish base and, through two additional folding sequences, gradually turns into a thinner fish base, with an elongated body that works particularly well for a sea serpent.

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 15 minutes

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The folding sequence is low-intermediate, making it a great project for beginners with a bit of experience. The model stays on the simple side, which keeps it accessible. Yet all the key features of a tiger are here, from the rounded face to the suggestion of stripes with a color change.

We folded it in orange and white, but using black and orange paper will give it even more impact. Just make sure to use a sheet larger than 20×20 cm (8×8 in) wide, as the tail and stripe sections need a bit of precision.

Origami Tiger Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 20-30 minutes

Step 1

Start with the colored side of the paper facing up. Fold the paper in half vertically, then unfold.

Step 2

Turn the paper over.

Step 3

Fold the left and right edges to meet the centerline.

Step 4

Fold all four corners in so the top and bottom edges align with the vertical centerline.

Step 5

Mountain fold the top triangle behind.

Step 6

Fold the bottom corner up to meet the center of the top edge. Then unfold.

Step 7

Fold the top edge down to the crease line you just made.

Step 8

Unfold everything.

Step 9

Pinch along the mountain fold and pleat it upward to meet the nearest horizontal line.

Step 10

Repeat the same pleat on the next existing crease, folding it up to meet the nearest horizontal line.

Step 11

Fold the left and right edges into the centerline along existing creases.

Step 12

Inside reverse fold all four corners using the existing creases.

Step 13

Fold the bottom left corner of the top flap to the circled point.

Step 14

Reverse fold along new creases so that part of the vertical edge becomes horizontal.

Folding tip: Check the next diagram to see how it should look. And of course, the video is there if you need extra help!

Step 15

Reverse fold the hidden flap so the vertical edges become horizontal.

Folding tip: This step is similar to the last one. We’re shaping the tiger’s stripes here.

Step 16

Fold the top left triangle down.

Step 17

Fold the triangle from Step 15 in half.

Step 18

Fold the bottom edge of the circled flap to the nearest line, then unfold.

Step 19

Mountain fold the corner underneath, using the crease you just made.

Step 20

Repeat Steps 13 to 19 on the right side.

Step 21

Turn the model over.

Step 22

Fold the top flap’s left and right edges to the center.

Folding tip: Press down on the center of the model as you fold to keep the layers from shifting. This helps avoid unwanted white gaps.

Step 23

Fold the top left triangle in half. This will be one of the front legs.

Step 24

Fold the corner up so the left edge becomes vertical.

Step 25

Fold the tip inward. There’s no exact reference point here.

Step 26

Repeat Steps 23 to 25 for the other three legs.

Step 27

Fold the top corner to the circled point, then unfold.

Step 28

Fold the model in half from left to right.

Step 29

Rotate the paper 1/4 turn clockwise.

Step 30

Fold the top edge of the tail to the nearest line. Crease well, then unfold.

Step 31

Inside reverse fold along the crease you just made.

Step 32

Fold the corner to the circled point. Then repeat on the other side.

Step 33

Fold the edge down. Then repeat on the other side.

Step 34

Fold the left corner to the right and crease well. The vertical crease should start where the two bottom edges meet.

Step 35

Fold the corner to the left so the top edge becomes vertical. Crease well.

Step 36

Unfold Steps 34 and 35.

Step 37

Reverse fold in and out along the creases made in Steps 34 and 35.

Step 38

Inside reverse fold the tip of the tiger’s tail.

Step 39

Crimp along a new valley fold between the circled points.

Step 40

Fold the right corner to the circled point. Crease well.

Step 41

Fold the flap you just made in half. Crease well.

Step 42

Unfold Steps 40 and 41.

Step 43

Reverse fold in and out along the creases made in Steps 40 and 41.

Folding tip: Feel free to shape the tongue however you like, or tuck it away entirely!

The Completed Origami Tiger

I hope you enjoyed folding this little tiger!

For more origami animal tutorials, be sure to sign up for our newsletter. We share step-by-step videos, folding tips, and beautiful models each week.

And feel free to share your creations with us in the comments or on socials. We love to see them!

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It’s fun to fold, full of detail, and instantly recognizable. No wonder it’s become a favorite in the origami community.

It’s a low-intermediate design, perfect for folders with a bit of experience under their belt.

Oriol originally created it as a tribute to Japanese culture, and it was later featured by Makoto Yamaguchi in a compilation book.

Since then, the folding sequence has been subtly refined, most recently with help from Japanese artist Kei Morisue, making it even smoother and more enjoyable to fold.

Origami Lucky Cat Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 20-30 minutes

Step 1

Start with the colored side facing up, in a diamond position. Fold both diagonals and unfold.

Step 2

Fold the bottom right edge to the centerline, but only crease a small pinch at the top right edge level. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 3

Use the pinch mark as a reference to fold the top corner down along the dashed line.

Step 4

Fold the left and right corners inward so they touch the colored side of the paper.

Step 5

Fold the bottom corner up along the dashed line.

Step 6

Unfold Steps 3 to 5.

Step 7

Fold the top horizontal line down to meet the horizontal diagonal.

Step 8

Mountain fold the bottom layer up along the horizontal diagonal.

Step 9

Fold and unfold the left edge to the circled point. Repeat for the right edge, then turn the paper over.

Step 10

Fold and unfold the left corner to the circled point. Repeat for the right corner, then turn the paper over.

Step 11

Collapse the paper along the existing creases.

Step 12

Fold the top corner to the center of the top square area. Crease well and unfold.

Folding tip: An easy way to find the center is to fold the bottom corner up to the top and make a small pinch at the midpoint of the vertical crease.

Step 13

Open sink the top area.

Folding tip: If sink folds are new to you, have a quick look at the video. It’s easier than it looks!

Step 14

Mountain fold the bottom left flap over to the right. Then, fold the top right flap over to the left.

Step 15

Swivel fold the bottom right layer using the existing creases.

Step 16

Fold the bottom right flap to the left.

Step 17

Fold the top two left flap to the right.

Step 18

Repeat Steps 14 to 17 on the left side.

Step 19

Squash fold the top left flap to form the ear.

Folding tip: Make sure the inner pocket shows the colored side of the paper.

Step 20

Fold the left corner over to the right. Leave a small gap!

Step 21

Tuck the bottom half of the ear into the pocket below.

Step 22

Repeat Steps 19 to 21 for the right ear.

Step 23

Fold the top flap’s left edge to the centerline.

Step 24

Fold the flap you just made in half.

Step 25

Unfold Step 23.

Step 26

Repeat Steps 23 to 25 on the right side.

Step 27

Find the bottom corner of the triangle flap under the top layer. Fold the top flap’s bottom corner to meet it.

Step 28

Fold the bottom edge of the top flap upward along the dashed line.

Step 29

Fold the top flap’s left edge down to meet the nearest horizontal line. Then, unfold.

Step 30

Repeat on the right side.

Step 31

Make a rabbit ear fold using the creases you just made. Tuck the central flap that sticks out underneath. Any side is ok!

Step 32

Fold the button’s left corner to the top left corner. Unfold, then repeat on the right.

Step 33

Mountain fold along the creases you just made.

Step 34

Mountain fold both the left and right edges inward.

Step 35

Fold the arms inward. Start the creases from the tips of the ears.

Step 36

Fold the left and right edges inward, using the circled points as a guide.

Step 37

Fold the left and right corners to meet the vertical centerline.

Step 38

Mountain fold the right side of the right arm. The arm’s left and right edges should stay parallel.

Step 39

Unfold the left arm.

Step 40

Make a rabbit ear-ish fold with the left arm, pointing it upward. Tuck the arm underneath the head.

Folding tip: Use the next diagram as your guide. First, position the arm upward and adjust the angle to your liking. Mark the bottom-right crease, unfold, then make the rabbit-ear fold. The video shows exactly how I do it.

Step 41

Fold the top corner of the left arm down to form the paw. Then, turn the model over.

Note: I slightly thinned the arm after the previous step because the paw felt a bit too big. Feel free to adjust the width to your liking!

Step 42

Fold the bottom corner up to the top horizontal line. Then, unfold.

Step 43

Create a flat base with 90° angles so your lucky cat can stand upright.

Step 44

Tuck the top flap under the pocket to lock everything in place.

Step 45

Turn the model over.

Your origami Lucky Cat is folded and full of luck!

I hope you enjoyed folding this iconic figure of good luck.

And don’t worry if some steps felt a bit tricky. It’s one of those models that gets easier (and more rewarding) with each attempt.

For more models like this one, check out our origami YouTube channel and sign up for our newsletter. We share new tutorials, seasonal favorites, and origami stories every week.

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While the original is folded from a full square, Nick’s clever adaptation begins with just half a square and greatly simplifies the folding sequence and collapse.

The result is more accessible, quicker to fold, and just as satisfying, without losing the beauty of the geometric forms.

And since it only uses half a square, you can fold two boxes from a single sheet of paper.

Origami Hexagonal Box Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 20 minutes

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper facing up. Fold it in half vertically, then unfold.

Step 2

Cut along the crease you just made.

Step 3

Fold the piece in half vertically again, then unfold.

Folding tip: This model needs sharp creases. Use your nail or a folding tool to press down each fold firmly.

Step 4

Fold in half horizontally, then unfold.

Step 5

Fold the top and bottom edges to meet the center crease.

Step 6

Fold the top and bottom edges again, this time to meet the creases you just made in Step 5.

Step 7

Fold and unfold the bottom edge to the second crease from the top. Then do the same for the top edge, folding it to the second crease from the bottom.

Step 8

Fold the bottom left corner to the circled point, but only crease the left edge. Start the fold from the bottom right corner.

Step 9

Rotate the model 90° counterclockwise. Then, fold the bottom edge up to the reference point you made in Step 8.

Step 10

Fold the top left edge to the nearest vertical crease.

Step 11

Fold the top edge down to the horizontal centerline.

Step 12

Reinforce all the vertical creases in the top colored section. Then turn the model over.

Step 13

Reinforce all vertical creases in the bottom section. Then turn the model over again.

Step 14

Rotate the model 90° clockwise.

Step 15

Fold and unfold a diagonal crease across the bottom left rectangle.

Step 16

Repeat Step 15 for all rectangular sections.

Folding tip: If you’re comfortable with mountain folds, try turning the model over and creasing while holding it mid-air. It helps you make cleaner, more accurate folds.

Step 17

Fold the right section up, forming a 90° angle with the left section.

Step 18

Collapse the paper along the existing creases as shown.

Step 19

Repeat Step 18 for all sections.

Folding tip: The more you fold, the harder it gets to collapse each section, especially as they start to sit on the edge of the box. Keep going! They’ll eventually all fit into place.

Step 20

Turn the model over.

Step 21

Swivel fold the dotted area inside the box.

Folding tip: This part is tricky. If you’re not sure how to swivel the flap into the box, watch the video for guidance.

Step 22

Turn the model over again.

Step 23

Tuck one side of the box under the other.

Folding tip: Use the tip of your folding tool to help lift and move the flap. It’s a tight fit, so don’t hesitate to unfold things a bit, then refold them.

The completed origami hexagonal box!

Challenge: Want to go a step further? Try folding a matching lid!

To do this, simply cut a slightly smaller rectangle (just a few millimeters narrower on each side) to form the base. You can also create a shorter lid by folding the flap from Step 11 in half.

We’d love to see what you create! Share your version with a lid in the comments or tag us on social media.

And if you enjoy elegant origami like this, don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel and newsletter for more tutorials, tips, and inspiration each week.

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According to the original 1989 diagram notes, it’s a traditional Chinese model collected by Philip Shen, though its exact origins remain a mystery.

Folding it doesn’t require advanced skills, but shaping the final form takes a bit of care and patience.

It’s a beautiful piece for displaying dry or paper flowers, and a great next step for beginner folders looking for a challenge.

Origami Vase Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 20 minutes
• Model designer: Traditional

Step 1

Start with the colored side of the paper facing up. Fold the paper in half vertically, then unfold.

Step 2

Fold the bottom left corner to the circled point. Start the fold from the bottom right corner. Only crease at the vertical centerline to make a pinch mark. Then, unfold.

Step 3

Fold the bottom left corner to the pinch mark from Step 2. Crease only at the bottom edge to mark another pinch, then unfold.

Step 4

Fold the right edge to the pinch mark you made in Step 3. Then, unfold.

Step 5

Fold the left edge to the crease you made in Step 3.

Step 6

Fold both the left and right edges to the nearest crease line.

Step 7

Fold the bottom right corner to meet the top left corner. Pinch where it crosses the second crease line from the left edge. Then, unfold.

Step 8

Using the pinch mark from Step 7, divide the paper into 6 equal horizontal sections by folding and unfolding, just like you did in Steps 4 to 6.

Step 9

Fold and unfold each raw edge to the nearest crease line. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 10

Fold and unfold each raw edge again, as shown in the diagram.

Step 11

On both sides of the vertical centerline, pleat fold using the two nearest existing creases.

Step 12

Repeat Step 11 at the horizontal centerline level.

Step 13

Turn the model over.

Step 14

Fold and unfold the top left and top right edges to the vertical centerline.

Step 15

Petal fold downward using the creases from Step 14.

Step 16

Repeat Steps 14 and 15 on the remaining sides. Then, turn the model over.

Step 17

Fold and unfold the top left and right edges to the nearest horizontal crease line. Repeat on the other sides.

Step 18

Fold the left and right edges to the vertical centerline.

Step 19

Fold the top and bottom edges to the horizontal centerline. Tuck these flaps into the pockets.

Step 20

Fold each corner around the center point inward, along existing creases.

Step 21

Turn the model over.

Step 22

Place two fingers under the top flaps and gently open the model.

Then, gently push the angles inward to shape the vase.

The Completed Origami Vase!

Folding tip: Use thicker and larger paper if you want a sturdier, usable vase. Just don’t put water inside

I hope you enjoyed folding this beautiful vase and that it now holds something special on your desk or shelf.

If you’re into functional origami or want to explore more traditional models, check out our origami YouTube channel and join our newsletter for new tutorials every week.

Let me know how your vase turned out, and what you decided to put inside it in the comments below!

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It’s a great example of how the same folded layers can lead to very different results. This model is available exclusively inside our Origami Circle membership — a fun and satisfying addition to your Halloween collection or anatomical folds.

Shadows and Folds Origami Bundle

Our bundle includes 3 high-quality diagrams and 3 how-to-fold videos for the following models:

• Little Demon by Sébastien Limet (Mister Paperfold)
• Realistic Skull by Sébastien Limet (Mister Paperfold)
• The Thing by João Charrua

Buy for $9.90 on Patreon

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You’ll need two sheets of origami paper to create the spider’s body and head. While it’s more advanced, it’s a rewarding way to improve your craft, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

In just under 30 minutes, you’ll create a paper spider that’s perfect for adding a spooky touch to your decor. Let’s get folding!

Modular Origami Spider Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 20-30 minutes

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper up. Fold and unfold in half.

Step 2

Fold and unfold in half the other way. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 3

Fold and unfold along the diagonals.

Step 4

Rotate the paper 45° counterclockwise. Then, turn it over.

Step 5

Collapse along the existing creases to form a Square Base.

Step 6

Lift the top right flap and Squash fold it flat.

Step 7

Turn the model over and repeat Step 6 on the other side.

Step 8

Repeat Step 6 on the two remaining flaps.

Step 9

Fold and unfold the left and right edges to the centerline.

Step 10

Use the creases from Step 9 to make a Petal fold.

Step 11

Turn the model over and repeat Step 10 on the other side.

Step 12

Repeat Step 10 on the remaining flaps.

Step 13

Rotate the model 180°.

Step 14

Fold the top triangle up. Then, gently pull the two top flaps apart to open the triangular flap.

Step 15

Push down the center and sink the triangular flap into the pocket. You are reversing the triangle creases to perform an open sink.

Step 16

Turn the model over and repeat Steps 14 to 15 on the other side.

Step 17

Repeat Steps 14 to 15 on the remaining flaps.

Step 18

Fold the top left and right edges to the centerline. Turn the model over and repeat on the other side.

Step 19

Repeat Step 18 on the remaining flaps.

Step 20

Inside reverse fold the top flaps along the dotted lines. Turn the model over and repeat on the other side.

Step 21

Pull one pair of legs downward and flatten them.

Step 22

Mountain fold the legs downward along the dotted lines.

Folding tip: You can also outside reverse fold the legs. However, a double-sided paper is recommended to avoid having white gaps.

Step 23

Blow gently into the hole to puff up the body.

Step 24

Create another Frog Base by repeating Steps 1 to 12 on a new sheet of paper.

Step 25

Fold the top triangular flap up. Then, repeat on the other side.

Step 26

Flip the top right flap to the left and repeat Step 25. Then, repeat on the remaining flaps.

Step 27

Pleat the left and right top flaps behind the front layers. Repeat on the other side, folding at a slightly higher angle.

Step 28

At the level of the front layers, fold the body and leg edges to the centerline. Start folding from the top down, creating a swivel fold at the junction. Repeat on all remaining sides.

Step 29

Mountain fold the legs upward along the dotted lines.

Folding tip: Again, you can also outside reverse fold the legs. However, a double-sided paper is recommended to avoid having white gaps.

Step 30

Insert the finished top half into the bottom half.

Folding tip: Fold the long flap in half to make the insertion easier.

The completed origami spider Enjoy your new eight-legged friend!

Shaping Tip: Bring your origami spider to life

The video tutorial below goes beyond the basics, showing you how to shape and refine the spider for a more lifelike look. With a few extra tweaks, your spider will take on a new level of detail.

Congratulations on folding this spider!

Your origami spider is a true achievement, with each fold adding to its intricate, lifelike design. Display it proudly or add it to a spooky-themed setup for extra flair.

Don’t hesitate to share your creations with us in the comments or on socials. We’d love to see them!

Download the Complete Origami Spider Printable PDF Instructions

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What I like about this shark is how it captures the essence of a shark with just a few clever folds.

It’s a low-intermediate model with one step that can be a bit tricky: folding the eyes. Beginners can skip this part or make it easier by folding the eyes a little bigger. It also gives this origami shark a more playful and comic look, which I really love.

Origami Shark Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 15-20 minutes

Step 1

Start with the colored side of the paper facing up in a diamond position. Fold and unfold along both diagonals. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 2

Fold the paper in half side to side in both directions, then unfold.

Step 3

Collapse the paper along the creases from Steps 1 and 2 to form a Square Base.

Step 4

Fold the bottom edges of the top flaps to the centerline. Repeat on the other side.

Step 5

Fold down the top triangular flap. Crease well, then unfold.

Step 6

Bring the bottom corner up and fold along the existing creases from Steps 4 and 5, creating a Petal Fold.

Step 7

Repeat Step 6 on the other side.

Step 8

Fold the top flap’s top corner down to meet the bottom corner.

Step 9

Turn the paper over.

Step 10

Fold the top corner down to the centerline, make a small pinch, and unfold.

Step 11

Now fold that same corner down to meet the pinch mark from Step 10. Pinch again and unfold.

Step 12

Open the top left layer and mountain fold along the dotted line. This will lift the lower flap. This fold connects the pinch created in Step 11 to the centerline (see Step 13).

Step 13

Flatten the lower flap upward.

Step 14

Fold the top corner down to the centerline. Make a light pinch, then unfold.

Step 15

Fold the pinch made in Step 14 over to meet the centerline, crease it well, then unfold.

Step 16

Open the top left flap, then bring the top corner down and flatten it using the crease from Step 15 to guide you.

Step 17

Repeat Steps 14 to 16 on the right side.

Folding Tip: Try to mirror both sides as closely as possible to maintain balance. These steps will create the shark’s left and right fins.

Step 18

Fold and unfold the top corner down along the dotted line. The crease should be slightly below the top of the colored areas.

Folding Tip: The lower you fold the top corner, the bigger the shark’s eyes will be! You can experiment for a comic effect. Also, keep in mind that smaller eyes require more precise folds in the next steps.

Step 19

Fold the top corner down along the existing crease while opening and flattening the colored layers on each side.

Folding Tip: Make sure the paper edges align neatly as you flatten the folds.

Step 20

Fold the left flap from Step 19 to the right so its left edge aligns with the top edge.

Step 21

Lift the top flap, open, and Squash Fold.

Step 22

Repeat Steps 20 and 21 on the right side. You’ve just created the shark’s eyes!

Step 23

Turn the model over.

Step 24

Fold the top corners inward, but not all the way to the centerline.

Step 25

Fold and unfold the top left edge of the center triangle to the bottom edge, creasing only from the centerline to the bottom left corner.

Step 26

Repeat Step 25 on the right side of the shark’s fin.

Step 27

Fold the right side of the model behind, folding the whole model in half. This will lift the shark’s top fin.

Step 28

Rotate the model 90° counterclockwise.

Step 29

Fold a narrow flap along the dotted line. Crease well, then unfold.

Step 30

Reverse fold the narrow flap inside.

Step 31

Fold and unfold the tail along the body’s main edges.

Step 32

Reverse fold the tail upward.

Step 33

Open the layers and gently flatten the nose to refine the shark’s profile.

Step 34

Fold and unfold the bottom fins along the body’s main edges.

Step 35

Finally, add a gentle curve to the body to make it slightly three-dimensional.

Finished! Your origami shark looks fin-tastic!

Thanks for folding along! This shark has such a fun character, and I hope you’re happy with how yours turned out.

The eye fold can be a bit of a puzzle, but it’s a great little challenge if you feel like pushing yourself. And if not, the model still looks awesome without it.

If you enjoyed this one, make sure to join our newsletter and subscribe to our YouTube channel so you don’t miss the next tutorials.

And if you want to share your shark, tag us on socials or drop a comment below. We’d love to see it!

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It doesn’t aim for realism but instead captures the quirky essence of a veiled chameleon in just a few expressive folds. The curved tail, tilted head, and angled limbs give it a sense of alertness, as if it’s quietly observing its surroundings. It’s an excellent model to perch on the edge of a planter or the rim of a mug, where it can quietly “hang out.”

With a few trickier steps, this model leans toward the low-intermediate level and offers a rewarding fold for beginners looking to try something a little more challenging.

Origami Chameleon Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 10-15 minutes

Step 1

Start with the colored side of the paper facing up in a diamond position. Fold and unfold both diagonals.

Step 2

Bring the left and right corners to meet the center point. Pinch lightly to mark reference points on each side, then unfold.

Step 3

Fold the left corner to the pinch mark you just made, then unfold.

Step 4

Repeat Step 3 on the right side.

Step 5

On each side, fold the bottom edge to meet the crease made in Steps 3 and 4. The crease should begin where the existing crease and edge intersect. Then, unfold.

Step 6

On each side, mountain fold the crease made in Step 5 and fold it to meet with the centerline.

Step 7

Fold the top left flap’s right corner down along the dotted line. This crease should run from the top left to the bottom right corners of the diamond-shaped area. Then, unfold.

Step 8

Swivel fold using the existing creases as guides. The reference point should move downward.

Step 9

Repeat Steps 7 and 8 on the right side.

Step 10

Mountain fold the model in half, right to left.

Step 11

Rotate the model 90° counterclockwise.

Step 12

Fold the bottom left edge to the nearest crease line. Crease well, then unfold.

Step 13

Make an outside reverse fold along the crease from Step 12.

Step 14

Focusing on the white area, fold from the top corner to the bottom corner. Then, unfold.

Step 15

Fold the reference point to meet the crease from Step 14. Start the crease from the left corner. Then, unfold.

Step 16

Open the layers and crimp fold along the creases from Steps 14 and 15. The top part of the chameleon’s head should sink inside the lower part.

Step 17

Mountain fold along the dotted lines on both sides.

Step 18

Fold the corner down to form the chameleon’s eye.

Step 19

Open the eye flap and push it down slightly to give it volume and a subtle color change. Don’t flatten it completely.

Folding tip: Play around with the angle to create different eye shapes.

Step 20

Repeat Steps 18 and 19 on the other side.

Step 21

Fold the top flap to the left to form the front leg. Repeat on the other side.

Step 22

Mountain fold along the dotted line to shape the front leg. The crease should begin where the colored and white sides meet. Repeat on the other side.

Step 23

Fold and unfold both legs along the dotted line to give them a 90° bend.

Folding tip: You can shape the legs to your liking to add volume or adjust the leg position.

Step 24

Fold the tail to the left, creating a 90° angle between the tail and body. Crease well, then unfold.

Step 25

Fold the tail downward with a 90° angle between the tail and main body, leaving a small gap between the beginning of the crease and the crease from Step 24. Crease well, then unfold.

Step 26

Inside reverse fold the tail along the creases from Step 25.

Step 27

Thin the tail by folding its right edge along the dotted line. The crease runs from the top right to the bottom corner. Unfold, then repeat on the other side.

Step 28

Mountain fold along the creases made in Step 27.

Step 29

Fold the right corner toward the head, aligning it with the reference point. Crease along the dotted line, then unfold.

Folding tip: Start by folding along the crease from Step 24. Then pivot the bottom section until the two reference points touch.

Step 30

Crimp fold along the creases from Steps 24 and 29.

Step 31

Curl the tail to the left.

Folding tip: Use a pen or rounded tool to curl the tail smoothly around it.

The completed origami chameleon!

If you enjoyed folding this little reptile, try giving it a home, whether that’s nestled among plants or watching over your workspace from a shelf.

And if you’re sharing your chameleon on socials, don’t forget to tag us. We’d love to see where it ends up!

For more animal-themed models with personality, take a look at our origami animal category, where there’s always another creature waiting to be folded.

Download the Complete Origami Chameleon Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of 120+ printable PDFs, and member-only content.

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The post How to Fold an Origami Chameleon appeared first on Origami.me.

It’s not particularly complex, but it does ask for a bit of folding experience. So if you’re a beginner looking for a small challenge, this one’s a great pick.

The diagrams, created by Peter Buchan-Symons, guide you through the sequence in a way that feels smooth and intentional. Every step builds clearly on the last, making the whole folding process feel well thought-out.

I recommend using paper that’s the same color on both sides to avoid the color change on the front legs. For best results, we used Tant paper in our photos.

It’s a bit thick for the final steps, but the texture gives the finished model a beautiful presence.

Origami Camel Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Low-Intermediate
• Folding time: 10-15 minutes

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper facing up in a diamond position. Fold side to side in both directions, then unfold.

Step 2

Fold the top and bottom corners in to meet the center point.

Step 3

Turn the paper over.

Step 4

Fold the bottom edge up to the top edge, then unfold.

Step 5

Fold the left and right corners to the center point.

Step 6

Fold and unfold both right corners to the center point.

Step 7

Fold and unfold the top and bottom right edges to the crease lines you made in Step 6.

Step 8

Fold the center point of the left triangle to the left edge, then unfold.

Step 9

Unfold the entire left triangle.

Step 10

Fold and unfold the top left edge to the top edge. Only crease from the corner to the horizontal centerline. Repeat this for the bottom left edge.

Step 11

Collapse the model in half using the existing creases.

Collapse in progress.

Step 12

Fold the bottom right corner up to the top corner. Repeat on the other side.

Step 13

Fold the flap you just made down so the top edge becomes vertical. Repeat on the other side.

Step 14

Use the existing crease to reverse fold the hidden flap and form the camel’s tail.

Step 15

Fold and unfold the bottom left corner to the circled point. Repeat on the other side.

Step 16

Fold the top left corner to the dotted line. Start your crease from the bottom left corner.

Step 17

Fold the bottom left corner up to the top corner. Crease well through all layers using the creases made in Step 15.

Step 18

Fold the top flap down using a fold-line that connects the circled points.

Step 19

Gently lift the flap so the nearest layers flatten out.

Step 20

Firmly crease along the circled crease, then unfold Steps 16 to 19.

Step 21

Do an outside reverse fold using the crease you made in Step 20. The paper won’t lie flat.

Step 22

Outside reverse fold again using the existing crease.

Step 23

Fold the bottom left corner up to the top circled point to flatten the model. Repeat on the other side.

Step 24

Fold the top flap down using the existing crease. Repeat on the other side.

Step 25

Fold the lower section from the bottom to the top corner. Crease well, then unfold. Now reverse fold all layers on both sides.

Folding tip: Want to avoid color changes and extra thickness? Unlock the white area and fold it between the legs. Or, leave it as-is for a male camel

Step 26

On each side, reverse fold the top edge down to narrow the Camel tail.

Step 27

Outside reverse fold the tail downward.

Your origami camel is ready to trot!

I hope you enjoyed folding this little desert traveler!

Try making a few in different sizes or lining them up in a caravan. They look great as a group.

And if you want to go further, explore more of Sébastien Limet’s creative designs. He has a real knack for expressive simplicity.

Happy folding!

Download the Complete Origami Camel Printable PDF Instructions

This printable PDF is part of our Origami Friends membership on Patreon. As a member, you get access to these diagrams, our full library of 120+ printable PDFs, and member-only content.

Become an OrigaMi Friend

The post How to Make an Origami Camel appeared first on Origami.me.