How to Fold a Traditional Origami Dolphin

Are you ready to bring a splash of creativity into your day? Let’s fold a fun origami dolphin together!

This model is perfect for beginners and a great way to practice the swivel fold.

Whether you’re just starting out or have some experience with origami, I’m here to guide you step-by-step as we create a lovely dolphin in just under 10 minutes.

Traditional Origami Dolphin Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 3
• Folding time: 5-10 minutes
• Material: This traditional model requires the use of scissors

Step 1

Rotate the paper 45 degrees clockwise. Fold both diagonals and unfold.

Step 2

Fold the right edges to the center line, then unfold.

Step 3

Fold the left edges to the center line, then unfold.

Step 4

Using the creases created in Steps 2 and 3, collapse the model’s upper half as shown on the diagram.

Step 5

Repeat Step 4 on the lower half.

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Step 6

Bring the two flaps created in Steps 4 and 5 to the left.

Step 7

Turn the model over. Next, fold the left corner towards the center line.

Step 8

Fold the top flap to the left along the dotted line, covering about one-quarter of the distance between the left edge and the centerline.

Step 9

Fold the left corners along the dotted lines, aligning them with the crease created in Step 8.

Step 10

Fold the flap created in Step 9 back to the left

Step 11

Cut along the dotted line.

Step 12

Fold the left corner along the dotted line, approximately one-third of the length of the top flap.

Step 13

Fold the model in half horizontally by bringing the bottom half up.

Step 14

Fold the tail’s top layer along the dotted line.

Step 15

Fold the dolphin’s fin along the dotted line.

Step 16

Turn the model over. Then, fold the second half of the tail along the dotted line.

Step 17

Lift the top flap and position it to fold along the dotted line.

Open the flap and position the paper to create the dorsal fin. Push everything flat, making a Swivel fold.

🐬 Folding tip: Feel free to adjust the angle of this fold to move the dorsal fin wherever you’d like!

The Completed Origami Dolphin

Turn the model over to complete the origami dolphin.

Congratulations on folding your very own origami dolphin!

This playful paper project is a wonderful way to unwind and let your creativity shine.

Keep experimenting with different paper styles and sizes to make each dolphin unique.

Don’t hesitate to share your creations with us in the comments or on socials!

Download the Complete Origami Dolphin Printable PDF Instructions

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