How to Fold an Easy Origami Turtle

If you’re in the mood for a calm and satisfying fold, this origami turtle is a lovely little model to try.

It creates a rounded, almost 3D shape that feels full and grounded, with clearly shaped legs, a tail, and a little head tucked in. The folding sequence is smooth and beginner-friendly, but also a nice opportunity to practice swivel and pleat folds.

It’s the kind of model that doesn’t rush you, and the result feels solid and complete with just a few simple moves.

If you’re new to paper folding, have a look at our Beginner’s Guide, which will teach you all the basic folds and techniques.

Origami Turtle Step-by-Step Instructions

• Difficulty: Easy – Beginner Level 3
• Folding time: 5 to 10 minutes
• Model designer: Traditional/Unknown
• Paper: 15×15 cm (6×6 in) Kami

Step 1

Start with the white side of the paper up. Fold in half vertically and unfold. Then, turn the paper over.

Step 2

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

Step 3

Fold the top edges to the centerline again, but only through the top layer. Be careful not to crease the flaps you made in the previous step (see picture).

Step 4

Fold the bottom edges up to meet the centerline. One small white triangle will sit on top of the other.

Step 5

Fold the right flap down, aligning the reference point with the bottom edge.

Step 6

Repeat on the left side.

Step 7

Fold the top square area in half along the horizontal diagonal.

Step 8

Fold the top flap up, aligning the circled points.

Step 9

Fold the left and right edges of the top flap up to meet the top edge. Then, unfold.

Step 10

Swivel fold both the left and right sides inward toward the center, using the creases from the previous step as guides.

Step 11

Pleat the bottom corner to form the turtle’s tail. Then, turn the model over.

Step 12

Pleat the tail and narrow the body.

Step 13

Narrow the arms and legs to add shape and volume.

🐢 Folding tip: Pleat the arms to shorten them and give more volume to your model.

The Completed Origami Turtle

🐢 Folding tip: You can also pleat the head to shorten it and give more volume to your model.

Your turtle is all done! It’s a simple design, but there’s something really satisfying about how it comes together.

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And if you share your turtle online, don’t forget to tag us. I’d love to see how yours turned out.

Download the Full Origami Turtle Printable PDF Instructions

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