Easy Origami Snapper: Step-by-Step Tutorial

Updated at: 31/05/2025

Origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, offers a captivating blend of creativity and precision. From intricate cranes to simple shapes, the possibilities are endless, and the rewarding feeling of transforming a flat sheet of paper into a three-dimensional object is truly unique. Today, we're focusing on a particularly fun and accessible project: the Origami Snapper. This charming little creation is perfect for beginners, requiring only a single square sheet of paper and a few simple folds. It's a fantastic way to introduce yourself to the world of origami, or to simply enjoy a quick and satisfying craft project.

The Origami Snapper's delightful snapping action, a result of cleverly placed creases, makes it an engaging and surprisingly addictive little toy. Whether you're looking for a fun activity for kids, a quick break from work, or a simple yet impressive origami piece to add to your collection, this tutorial is for you. Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create your own satisfying Origami Snapper!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 8 1/2 by 11 inch printer paper
  • Sharpies or markers
  • Optional: glue
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp, clean scissors to prevent injuries. Always cut away from yourself.
  • Adult supervision is recommended, especially for young children. Small parts pose a choking hazard.
  • Be mindful of your fingers when folding. Take your time and avoid rushing to prevent cuts or paper cuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Initial Folds

    • Fold the paper in half lengthwise, then in half widthwise, creating crisp creases.
    • Open the paper and fold it in half the opposite way, ensuring crisp creases.
    Open the paper and fold it in half the opposite way, ensuring crisp creases.Open the paper and fold it in half the opposite way, ensuring crisp creases.
    Initial Folds

  2. Forming the Hat Base

    • Fold the top corners down to meet the center crease.
    • Fold the top flap up to form a hat shape.
    • Fold the bottom edges up, aligning them with the center crease.
    Fold the bottom edges up, aligning them with the center crease.Fold the bottom edges up, aligning them with the center crease.Fold the bottom edges up, aligning them with the center crease.
    Forming the Hat Base

  3. Creating the Snapper Body

    • Open the hat, flatten, and create new creases by folding the bottom corners across to the center.
    • Reverse the folds from step 6, tucking the edges inward.
    • Repeat steps 6 and 7 on the opposite side.
    Repeat steps 6 and 7 on the opposite side.Repeat steps 6 and 7 on the opposite side.Repeat steps 6 and 7 on the opposite side.
    Creating the Snapper Body

  4. Marking and Drawing the Teeth

    • Using a separate piece of paper, draw lines halfway down each flap to mark the placement of the 'teeth'. Transfer these markings to the snapper.
    • Draw connected 'U' shapes near the top edge for the teeth, then color them in.
    Draw connected 'U' shapes near the top edge for the teeth, then color them in.Draw connected 'U' shapes near the top edge for the teeth, then color them in.
    Marking and Drawing the Teeth

  5. Shaping the Head

    • Fold the top layer of each triangle up to the top, creasing well, and repeat on the other side.
    Fold the top layer of each triangle up to the top, creasing well, and repeat on the other side.
    Shaping the Head

  6. Adding Facial Features

    • Open the snapper slightly, then fold it down to form the mouth. Draw eyes and other details.
    Open the snapper slightly, then fold it down to form the mouth. Draw eyes and other details.
    Adding Facial Features

  7. Finishing Touches

    • Open the mouth, folding down the tongue flap and tucking the corner to keep it flat.
    Open the mouth, folding down the tongue flap and tucking the corner to keep it flat.
    Finishing Touches

Read more: Easy Origami Paper Box Tutorial: Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Make sure your folds are crisp and precise for a better-looking final product.
  • Pause or rewind the video if needed to follow along.
  • Get creative with colors and designs to personalize your snapper!
  • Consider using glue to secure the tongue and mouth flaps for extra stability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Loose folds

Reason: Not creasing the folds firmly enough, especially during the initial steps.
Solution: Make sure to crease each fold sharply and firmly using your fingernail or a bone folder for a crisp, clean fold.

2. Incorrect alignment of flaps

Reason: Not carefully aligning the edges and flaps during the folding process, leading to an uneven or asymmetrical final shape.
Solution: Pay close attention to aligning the edges and points precisely before making each fold, referencing the images or diagrams provided.

FAQs

What kind of paper is best for making an Origami Snapper?
A square sheet of lightweight, relatively thin paper works best. Construction paper, origami paper, or even printer paper will do, but avoid anything too thick or stiff, as it will be difficult to fold sharply.