Origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, offers a captivating blend of creativity and precision. From simple shapes to intricate creatures, the possibilities are endless, and mastering even the most challenging models provides a profound sense of accomplishment. Today, we delve into the fascinating world of origami elephants, specifically exploring a remarkably accessible design by renowned origami artist, Fumiaki Kawahara. His method simplifies the typically complex folding required for this majestic animal, making it a perfect project for both beginners and experienced folders alike.
Kawahara's design elegantly balances simplicity with the recognizable form of an elephant, requiring minimal materials and offering a satisfying result. Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can create your very own origami elephant following the clear and concise step-by-step instructions outlined below. Let's get started and transform a single sheet of paper into a charming miniature pachyderm!
Preparation and Safety Guidelines
Tools Needed
- 7in x 7in (or 18cm x 18cm) square paper
Safety Guidelines
- Use sharp, clean scissors to avoid injury. Carefully handle the scissors and keep them away from children unless supervised.
- Work on a clean, flat surface to prevent tearing of the paper. Avoid working on rough or textured surfaces.
- Take your time and follow the instructions carefully. If a step is unclear, refer to the diagram or video tutorial provided by Fumiaki Kawahara.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Initial Creases and Base Formation
- Orient the paper like a diamond and fold the diagonals.
- Fold one corner to the center.
- Bring the section to align with the opposite section and pinch mark over the central line.
- Open the flap, bring the lower corner to the pinch mark and crease.
Initial Creases and Base Formation - Bring the corners to the center, open and return to the previous position with the marks and folds.
- Bring the lower corner to the intersection and make a pinch mark. Bring the opposite corner to that pinch mark and make another mark in the center.
- Bring that point to the mark and set the crease. Bring the opposite corner to the intersection and create a fold.
- Repeat the fold on the other side.
Initial Creases and Base Formation Creating the Elephant's Head
- Reverse the valley folds to create mountain folds, creating rabbit ear folds.
- Bring the point down, creating a fold over the edge. Create a fold guided by the intersection and edge, parallel to the top edge.
- Repeat on the other side. Fold along the lines to make rabbit ear folds.
- Fold along the center so that the central fold is a mountain fold. Rotate so that the point is up, fold and collapse.
Creating the Elephant's Head - Fold the left flap to the back. Fold along the existing hinge, folding the edge over itself. Align sections and flatten.
- Repeat on the other side.
Creating the Elephant's Head Forming the Body and Legs
- Fold to connect the points, creating a rectangle shape. Insert finger inside the triangular flap, push down and flatten.
- Divide the central rectangle in half, making a fold. Extend the fold underneath. Bring the edges to match.
- Gently collapse the edge to match the edge underneath. Insert finger and collapse.
- Repeat on the other side. Fold to align edges and collapse.
Forming the Body and Legs - Fold to connect points to form the legs, aligning the folds.
Forming the Body and Legs Refining the Legs and Body
- Reverse the folds (mountain to valley, valley to mountain).
- Repeat on the other side. Align edges and reverse folds.
- Bring the edge to align with the other and reverse and fold to the back. Repeat on other side.
- Blunt the leg by aligning lines and reversing folds. Fold the white points.
Refining the Legs and Body Shaping the Trunk and Tail
- Open the area and make folds by bringing edges to the center. Repeat on the other side.
- Shape the trunk by creating a fold that continues the pre-existing line. Reverse the fold. Repeat with the tip.
- Blunt the corners. Fold the tail inside. Fold the ears outward.
Shaping the Trunk and Tail Final Touches
- Create a mountain fold to define the legs.
Final Touches
Read more: Easy Origami Paper Box Tutorial: Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- N/A
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Uneven Folds
Reason: Inaccurate folding leads to asymmetry and an uneven final shape.
Solution: Ensure all folds are crisp and aligned precisely with the edges before proceeding to the next step.
2. Incorrect Valley/Mountain Folds
Reason: Confusing valley (inside) and mountain (outside) folds results in a distorted structure.
Solution: Carefully follow the diagram and instructions, paying close attention to the type of fold indicated.
3. Premature Creasing
Reason: Creasing sections too early before completing the folding sequence creates unwanted wrinkles and difficulty with later steps.
Solution: Only crease the indicated folds at the appropriate stage to maintain a smooth and accurate form.
FAQs
What size and type of paper is best for this origami elephant?
Square paper works best! For beginners, a larger square (around 6 inches or 15cm) is easier to manage. You can use any kind of paper, but thinner paper (like origami paper or printer paper) is generally preferred for cleaner folds.
What if I make a mistake during the folding process? Can I still fix it?
Don't worry, mistakes happen! Origami often involves trial and error. If you notice a mistake early on, carefully unfold the steps back to where the error occurred and try again. For more complex issues, you can always refer to photos or videos of the steps in question.