Easy Origami Dinosaur: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 29/05/2025

Origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, offers a wonderfully creative outlet for both children and adults. From intricate cranes to whimsical animals, the possibilities are endless, and the satisfaction of transforming a simple square of paper into a recognizable form is incredibly rewarding. If you're looking for a fun and accessible project, this guide will show you how to create a charming origami dinosaur, perfect for beginners or anyone seeking a quick and satisfying craft. No specialized tools or advanced skills are required; just a square sheet of paper and a willingness to follow a few easy steps.

This delightful dinosaur is surprisingly simple to make, requiring only basic folds and creases. The process is broken down into clear, concise steps, accompanied by helpful diagrams, ensuring a stress-free crafting experience. Ready to unleash your inner paleontologist and bring a prehistoric friend to life? Let's begin with the step-by-step instructions!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Square piece of paper
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors carefully, keeping fingers away from the blades. Adult supervision is recommended, especially for younger children.
  • Avoid using fragile or easily torn paper. Thicker, sturdier paper will make folding easier and yield a more durable dinosaur.
  • If creases become difficult, gently use a bone folder or similar blunt object to help define them. Avoid pressing too hard to prevent tearing the paper.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Initial Folds

    • Fold the paper in half, then unfold.
    • Fold the paper in half diagonally (to form a triangle), then unfold.
    • Fold the paper in half the other way (to form a diamond shape), then unfold.
    Fold the paper in half the other way (to form a diamond shape), then unfold.Fold the paper in half the other way (to form a diamond shape), then unfold.Fold the paper in half the other way (to form a diamond shape), then unfold.
    Initial Folds

  2. Forming the Base

    • Turn the paper over. Fold the top and bottom edges to the center crease.
    • Fold the paper in half again (to form a smaller rectangle).
    • Fold the top and bottom edges towards the center.
    Fold the top and bottom edges towards the center.Fold the top and bottom edges towards the center.Fold the top and bottom edges towards the center.
    Forming the Base

  3. Refining the Shape

    • Fold the top layer in half using a ruler to create a crisp fold, then unfold.
    • Fold the top corners down to meet the center line created in the previous step.
    • Fold the top edges down again to create a smaller triangle.
    • Fold the model in half again to make it smaller.
    Fold the model in half again to make it smaller.Fold the model in half again to make it smaller.Fold the model in half again to make it smaller.Fold the model in half again to make it smaller.
    Refining the Shape

  4. Creating the Body

    • Fold the longer part of the paper to the other side, then fold it back again.
    • Gently fold the top layer upward.
    Gently fold the top layer upward.Gently fold the top layer upward.
    Creating the Body

  5. Adding the Head

    • Fold the end of it to create the dinosaur’s head.
    Fold the end of it to create the dinosaur’s head.
    Adding the Head

  6. Making the Feet

    • Unfold both sides to make the feet.
    Unfold both sides to make the feet.
    Making the Feet

  7. Finishing Touches

    • Draw an eye and mouth.
    Draw an eye and mouth.
    Finishing Touches

Read more: DIY Toilet Paper Roll Rockets: A Fun and Easy Craft Project

Tips

  • Use a ruler for sharper folds.
  • Ask for help from parents, especially for more complex folds.
  • Replay the video to follow the steps carefully.
  • Fold gently to avoid tearing the paper.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Loose Folds

Reason: Not creasing the folds sharply enough, leading to inaccurate shapes and a wobbly dinosaur.
Solution: Use your fingernail or a bone folder to firmly crease each fold as you go.

2. Incorrect Valley/Mountain Folds

Reason: Confusing valley (inside) and mountain (outside) folds, resulting in a distorted final shape.
Solution: Pay close attention to the diagrams and instructions to ensure you're folding in the correct direction.

FAQs

What type of paper is best for origami dinosaurs?
A square piece of paper, preferably thin but not too flimsy, works best. Origami paper is ideal, but printer paper or even lightweight cardstock can be used. Avoid using paper that's too thick or textured, as this can make folding difficult.
What if I make a mistake during folding? Can I fix it?
Don't worry if you make a mistake! Origami is a learning process. Carefully unfold the affected section and try the step again, paying close attention to the instructions and diagrams. Sometimes, a slight adjustment is all it takes to get back on track.