Step by Step Origami Dinosaur

Origami is enjoyable for adults and children alike.

The actual origin of origami is unknown, though the Japanese are widely credited with developing the intricate folded paper designs and introducing the world to the art. Origami is a hobby enjoyed throughout the world and is especially popular with children. Since origami often requires little more than a sheet of paper and nimble fingers, it is possible to create a wide variety of animals and designs in a matter of moments. The origami dinosaur involves relatively simple folding techniques.

Things You'll Need

• 6-by-6-inch piece of origami paper

Instructions

1. Fold the origami paper into a triangle and press to form a crease down the middle. Open the triangle and fold the edges inward until the they meet in the center. The paper should form a diamond shape.

2. Turn the paper over and fold the paper upward and in half so the bottom meets the top. The origami paper should resemble the shape of a sailor's hat.

3. Turn the paper over and fold it in half. Locate the flaps created by the fold. Pull the flaps outward and fold them toward the middle. Find the top flap and fold it down. The origami paper should again form the shape of a diamond.

4. Flip the paper over. Fold the diamond in half from the center to form a triangle. Locate the flaps in the middle of the triangle and fold them upwards to create the dinosaur's legs. Repeat on the other side of the triangle.

5. Fold the top tip of the triangle over to one side and press down to create a crease. Unfold the triangle and fold to the other side. Press to create an even more solid crease and unfold.

6. Open the triangle so that the crease runs down the middle. Invert the fold to form the dinosaur's head. Fold the tip of the dinosaur's head where the nose would be located inward to make a more angular mouth and nose.

7. Locate the median point between the dinosaur's head and legs. Fold the head downwards toward the midway point to create a crease. Unfold and fold the opposite direction to strengthen the crease.

8. Form another crease on the diagonal. Fold both directions to strengthen the crease. Pinch the two folds together to create the dinosaur's arms.

9. Grip the triangle that forms the dinosaur's tail and invert it upward toward the arms into the body. Firmly press to fortify.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a small pen to draw eyes and teeth on the origami dinosaur.

References

• PBS: Between The Folds: The History of Origami
• "Prehistoric Origami: Dinosaurs and Other Creatures"; John Montroll; 1990

Resources

• Origami Instructions: Origami Dinosaur Folding Instructions