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: Kunihiko Kasahara
• Recommended paper: Grey kami 15×15 cm (6×6 in)

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper facing up in a diamond position. Fold the vertical diagonal, then unfold.

Step 2

Fold the top edges to the centerline, then turn the paper over.

Step 3

Fold the top corner down to meet the bottom corner.

Step 4

Fold the top flap’s bottom corner up, along the dotted line.

Step 5

Turn the model over.

Step 6

Fold the bottom corner up to the point where the white and colored sides meet.

Step 7

Fold the model in half from right to left. Then, rotate it 90° counterclockwise.

Step 8

Swivel fold the head by pushing it down and slightly to the right.

🐘 Folding tip: Play around with the angle of the head and adjust it to your liking.

Step 9

Inside reverse fold the head to create the origami elephant 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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