Origami animals are some of the most popular models to make. While the origami crane is a classic favorite, but many other animal origami projects are waiting for you. Below, you’ll find a list of simple (and fun!) paper animals to try. Additionally, I’ve included links to instructions for multiple skill levels, from beginner to advanced, for both new and experienced origami fans.
Origami Rabbit
An origami rabbit is a great choice for paper folding, especially for kids, with its long ears and fluffy tail. Start with a simple model that shows off the bunny’s cute face, like the easy tutorial below. Then for more complex projects, you can add fun details like eyes and whiskers to make it even cuter.
- Easy: Bunny origami: Origami Artistry
- A step up: A standing bunny (pictured above) at Gary Origami
- For experienced folders: Folded by Happy Folding, design by Jun Maekawa
Origami Dinosaur
Almost every kid I know loves dinosaurs, and I believe origami fans can have a lot of fun and challenge themselves creatively with these projects. There are so many prehistoric creatures you can recreate with paper. The most popular dinosaur model is probably the T-Rex, with its powerful stance and iconic arms. As you progress, folding a paper dinosaur can get pretty intricate, and more advanced folders can create some seriously impressive designs.
- Easy: Origami dinosaur Brachiosaurus by Peter Saydak on Origami.me
- A step up: A more detailed Brachiosaurus by Easy Origami designed by John Montroll, or try Jo Nakashima’s T-Rex
- For experienced folders: Try the T-Rex by origami kaaakun
- BONUS! A T-Rex using a dollar bill! by Fold ‘n Crease
Origami Elephant
Elephants are another favorite when it comes to origami animals. With their big ears, long trunks, and gentle demeanor, they’re a symbol of strength and wisdom, which makes them especially meaningful to fold. However, if you’re looking for a challenge, there are more complex designs that add intricate details, like adding tusks, or the bend of their trunks. While the simpler designs can be very cute, the more complex models really highlight how majestic elephants are.
- Easy: A very cute origami elephant especially for kids at KIDS crafts
- A step up: A much more detailed one at Easy Paper Origami
- For experienced folders: A design by Sipho Mabona folded by JM’s Origami Tutorials
Origami Owl
Owls are mysterious creatures, with their big eyes and oval body shape, making them perfect for a fun and unique origami project. Even the simpler designs capture their rounded bodies, big eyes, and their sharp, small beaks. If you’re up for something more advanced, try folding a three-dimensional owl, like the modular project below under “BONUS!” This 3D animal origami project uses many small origami pieces to create the owl.
- Easy: My Origami Land this model stands, too! Or try another design at Art For Kids Hub
- A step up: Magic Folds
- For experienced folders: Design by John Montroll and folded by Fido Origami
- BONUS! Modular origami owl at Arthur 3D origami
Origami Cat
Origami cats and kittens are popular projects for cat lovers and cat parents. You can choose paper that matches your cat’s color or use markers to add details after folding. The basic design is simple, but more detailed versions can capture unique features like your pet’s head tilt or tail curve. If you’d like more projects like this, check out my Origami Cat post here!
- Easy: Easiest cat origami I’ve seen so far at Gary Origami, or a standing cat at Duuings for All
- A step up: Easy Origami and Crafts has a more detailed and sleeker cat origami
- For experienced folders: Design by Katsuta Kyohei folded by JM’s Origami Tutorials
Butterfly Origami
Butterfly origami can be super simple, and you can experiment with different colors and patterns of paper to make each butterfly unique. Some people even use it to decorate cards or create colorful displays. Plus, once you get the hang of it, it’s a fun skill to show off to friends and family!
- Easy: Simple butterfly origami at EzzyCraftsDIY or another butterfly design by PPO
- A step up: An elegant butterfly by Easy Paper Origami
- For experienced folders: A flapping-wings butterfly by Origami Library
Which project to start with?
Origami animals can seem intimidating but gets easier once you begin, and it’s endless possibilities from there. Whether you start with folding a cute origami bunny, a fierce dinosaur, or your pet kitten, the most important is to be patient, enjoy the process, and be proud of what you make! If you’d like to check out more animal origami, check out my Origami Birds post.