Origami Octopus
The word “origami” comes from two Japanese words: “ori” (meaning “fold”) and “kami” (meaning “paper”). It is an ancient art form dating back centuries. Although this origami octopus might not be one of the earliest forms of origami, it can be a creative and intricate project to take on with your kids.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced folder, crafting this origami octopus will be a fun (even if somewhat challenging) experience to do with your older kids.
In this post, we will walk through the step-by-step process of creating your own origami octopus, with photos included. So, clear a space, gather your homeschool class, and let’s get started!
List of Supplies for Origami Octopus
- VALUE PACK OF 500 WITH 20 VIBRANT COLORS: The bulk pack of 500 drawing paper is a premium yet value for money option. You get a great collection of 20 vivid colors including three metallic colors. The ideal oragaminpaper having size of 6 x 6 inches is perfect for every origami project.
- NO TEARING & EASY TO FOLD: Made of high quality 70 gsm papers, our kraft paper won’t tear, rip, or curl on the sides. Despite its durability. Colored copy paper is flexible enough to hold the crease and shape very well, making it great for mini crafts. Double-sided oragami color paper means you can use it for any DIY job!
Instructions for the Origami Octopus
Step 1
Select a sheet of craft paper (your color of choice) and prepare 2 square sheets from it. We’re using 15cm x 15cm sheets. Cut out 2 eye bases from white paper and draw eyes on them.
Step 2
Take any one of the square sheets and fold the square sheet in half diagonally, from both sides. Unfold the diagonal folds.
Step 3
Turn the sheet to the other side and make vertical and horizontal folds.
Step 4
Fold out the diagonal creases and fold it in any 2 opposite horizontal creases.
Step 5
Flatten the current pattern by keeping 2 diagonal flaps on each side. We’ll use these flaps to make the tentacles of the origami octopus.
Step 6
Bring all the flaps on one side.
Step 7
Now, fold the top flap to 25 or 30 degrees from the closed side.
Step 8
Fold the 2nd flap to slightly more than the previous ones (the angles don’t need to be exactly the same as ours, just make sure that each flap is folded evenly and has even gaps).
Step 9
Fold the 3rd flap to slightly more than the 2nd flap.
Step 10
And, lastly, fold the 4th flap. The tentacle part of the origami octopus is ready.
Step 11
Take the other square sheet; we’ll make the head of the origami octopus with it.
Step 12
Fold the square sheet in half, diagonally.
Step 13
Fold the left half of the closed side along the middle of the half-folded sheet.
Step 14
Similarly, fold the right half of the closed side along the middle.
Step 15
Fold up the closed side and join the closed corner in the middle of the left and right flaps, 1 cm below the top corner.
Step 16
Fold the left and right corners and join them with the top layer of the current pattern along its edge.
Step 17
Take the origami tentacle part and turn it to its wrong side.
Step 18
Apply glue on the wrong side of the origami head pattern.
Step 19
Attach the closed corner of the tentacle pattern on the glued part of the head. Fold the top corner of the head slightly inside.
Step 20
Turn the origami pattern to the front/ correct side. Prepare 2 small round shapes from pink paper for the blush.
Step 21
Glue the eye and blush cuts on the head part to complete the origami octopus craft.
More Origami and Paper Crafts
Here are some other paper crafts you might want to try with your homeschool class, including some simple origami projects for younger children.
- Origami Bird Craft
- Intricate Origami Leaf
- Endangered Animal Paper Bookmarks
- Easy Origami for Kids
- Creative 3D Paper Art
- Polar Bear Paper Bookmark