How to Fold an Easy Origami Elephant

The elephant is an iconic origami animal model. There is even an origami paper called “elephant hide” tailored to create this majestic animal.

The old model has been around for a very long time, showing that Japanese origami artists were already intrigued by this distant and exotic creature.

I love how simple this origami elephant is. It’s perfect for beginners and for practicing inside reverse folds.

Follow our easy step-by-step instructions to fold this model in less than 5 minutes.

Origami Elephant Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Very easy – Beginner Level 1
• Folding time: Less than 5 minutes
• Model designer: Kunihiro Kasahara
• Recommended paper: Grey kami 15×15 cm (6×6 in)

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper facing you. Fold in half diagonally and unfold.

Step 2

Fold the sides to the center line, then turn the paper over.

Step 3

Fold the top tip down to the bottom tip.

Step 4

Fold the tip up.

Step 5

Turn the model over.

Step 6

Fold up the bottom tip to the point of intersection.

Step 7

Mountain fold in half and rotate the model 1/4 of a turn counterclockwise.

Step 8

Push the head down and slightly to the right, swivel folding.

🐘 Folding tip: Play around with the angle to bend the head more or less when folding.

Step 9

Inside reverse fold the head to create the trunk.

Step 10

Make another inside reverse fold to shape the trunk further.

Step 11

Make one more inside reverse fold to flatten the tip of the trunk.

The Completed Origami Elephant

Well done on completing your first paper elephant!

This model is a great start in your origami journey that can bring you into folding very complex origami elephants. A long but rewarding journey.

How did you find this elephant? We’d love to see your creations in the comments or on socials!

Download the Full Origami Elephant Printable PDF Instructions

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