How to Fold a Traditional Origami Crab
Are you ready to take on a more challenging origami project?
The traditional origami crab is a rewarding model that tests your skills while still being doable for eager beginners.
You will start with the classic frog base, but instead of making the usual four legs as you would with the traditional origami frog, you’ll use scissors to divide the legs, creating the crab’s full set of eight legs.
Let’s bring this fascinating sea creature to life in less than 20 minutes.
Traditional Origami Crab Step-by-Step Instructions
- Difficulty: Beginner – Level 4
- Folding time: 15-20 minutes
- Model designer: Traditional
- Paper: We used 18×18 cm (7×7 in) custom-designed origami paper (you can download it here). Alternatively, Kami 15×15 cm (6×6 in) will work well.
- Material: Scissors
Step 1
Start with the colored side of the paper facing up. Fold and unfold both diagonals.
Step 2
Turn the paper over. Then, fold and unfold in half both horizontally and vertically.
Step 3
Rotate the paper 45° clockwise. Then, collapse the paper as shown on the diagram using the existing creases, making a square base.
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Step 4
Fold and unfold the right flap along the dotted line.
Step 5
Bring the right flap to the center line, open it, and squash fold.
Step 6
Repeat Steps 4 to 5 on the other side of the model.
Step 7
Flip the top right flap to the left. Then, repeat behind.
Step 8
Fold and unfold the right flap along the dotted lines.
Step 9
Bring the right flap to the center line, open it, and squash fold.
Step 10
Repeat Steps 8 to 9 on the other side of the model.
Step 11
On each side, fold and unfold the top flaps to the center line.
Step 12
Petal fold the top layer, using the creases created in Step 11.
Step 13
Turn the model over and repeat Steps 11 to 12.
Step 14
Flip the two top right flaps to the left. Then, repeat behind.
Step 15
Repeat Steps 11 to 12 on the front and back.
Step 16
Flip the top right flap to the left. Then, repeat behind.
Step 17
Cut the bottom top flap along the dotted line. Then, repeat behind.
Step 18
Flip the two top right flap to the left. Then, repeat behind.
Step 19
Cut the bottom top flap along the dotted line. Then, repeat behind.
Step 20
On each side, fold the top flaps to the center line.
Step 21
Repeat Step 20 on the other side of the model.
Step 22
Flip the two top right flap to the left. Then, repeat behind.
Step 23
Repeat Step 20 on the front and back.
Step 24
Flip the top right flap to the left. Then, repeat behind.
Step 25
Cut through all layers along the lines.
Step 26
Fold the top corner down along the dotted line and tuck it under the top flap.
Step 27
Fold the first pair of legs (the top layers) along the dotted lines.
Step 28
Fold the second set of legs (the next layers) under the first pair. Fold them at a different angle than the first pair so they peek out above them.
Step 29
Repeat the same folds with the third pair of legs. Again, they should appear above the second pair.
Step 30
Do the same with the fourth pair of legs.
Step 31
Fold the top pair of legs (the crab’s claws) along the dotted lines so that they point toward the center.
Step 32
Fold the remaining legs along the dotted lines so that they point toward the opposite side. Then, turn the model over.
The Completed Origami Crab
Great work! Your traditional origami crab is complete, showcasing its detailed legs and unique design.
This model is quite a challenge, so you should definitely be proud of what you’ve created!
Don’t hesiate to share you creations with us in comments or on socials. We’d love to see them!
Download the Full Origami Crab Printable PDF Instructions
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