How to Fold an Origami Giraffe

This origami giraffe, designed by Caleb Witte, is a beautiful mix of elegance and simplicity.

Giraffes are not the easiest animals to capture in origami, but this model does it with clean lines, graceful proportions, and a folding sequence that is surprisingly approachable. There is one sink fold that can be a bit tricky, but thanks to a clever simplification by Jimena Candia, the diagram is much easier to follow.

The final result is a tall, geometric giraffe that feels both playful and refined. A great model if you are looking for something a little challenging but still accessible with little folding experience.

Origami Giraffe Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 5
• Folding time: 10 minutes
• Model designer: Caleb Witte
• Paper: Kami 15×15 cm

Step 1

Start with the colored side facing up in a diamond position. Fold along the vertical diagonal, then unfold.

Step 2

Fold the bottom left and right edges to the centerline.

Step 3

Turn the paper over.

Step 4

Fold the two creases from Step 2 to the centerline.

Step 5

Fold the top corner down along the dotted line where the white and colored sides meet. Then, unfold.

Step 6

Repeat on the left side. Then, turn the model over.

Step 7

Fold the top left corner down to meet the bottom right edge. The edges on both sides of the corner should align. Only crease from the top corner to the centerline.

Step 8

Repeat on the left side.

Step 9

Fold the top corner down along the dotted line from the left to right corner. Then, unfold.

Step 10

Turn the model over.

Step 11

Fold the bottom left edge up (top layer only) to the nearest line. Only crease from the corner to the centerline.

Step 12

Now fold that same edge to the centerline, but only crease from the Step 11 crease to the bottom corner.

Step 13

Repeat Steps 11 and 12 on the right side.

Step 14

Fold the bottom corner up and collapse the model along the creases made in Steps 11 to 13.

Step 15

Flip the model over, top to bottom.

Step 16

Bring the back flap up and fold along the existing creases. It won’t lie flat—don’t force it.

🦒 Folding tip: Steps 16 and 17 can be done in one motion.

Step 17

Fold the right side of the model to the back.

Step 18

Rotate the model 90° counterclockwise.

Step 19

Open the left flaps and bring them up making an outside reverse fold.

Step 20

Fold down along the dotted line to pre-crease the head. Crease well, then unfold.

🦒 Note: There is no exact reference point here. Adjust the angle to your liking!

Step 21

Open the outer flaps and make an outside reverse fold to form the head. The outer layers will form the bottom of the head.

Step 22

Inside reverse fold the tip of the head.

Step 23

Bring the right corner inside the model and make a crimp fold along the existing creases.

Step 24

Fold the tail along the dotted line where the two layers meet. Then, unfold.

Step 25

Crimp fold the tail using the crease from Step 25. Adjust the angle to your liking.

Stand tall, your origami giraffe is complete!

Well done on folding your giraffe. I hope you enjoyed the process and found the sequence as satisfying as the final shape.

It is always rewarding to see a model come together with such clarity, especially one that looks this elegant while staying beginner-friendly.

If you would like to keep folding with us, feel free to join our newsletter or subscribe to our YouTube channel. And if you share your giraffe online, we would love to see it. Just tag us or leave a comment below.

Download the Full Origami Giraffe Printable PDF Instructions

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