How to Make an Origami Mantis: A Step-by-Step Tutorial for Beginners

Folding an Origami Mantis is an exciting and creative way to explore DIY origami while crafting a realistic paper representation of this fascinating insect. This origami mantis tutorial is designed for beginners, offering simple steps to create a detailed mantis with its distinctive legs and posture. Perfect for insect enthusiasts, decorations, or origami collections, this guide will help you make your own stunning paper mantis.

Materials Needed:

  • Origami Paper: One square sheet (15x15 cm recommended), preferably in green or brown for a natural mantis look.

Step-by-Step Guide to Folding an Origami Mantis

Step 1: Start with a Square Sheet of Paper

Place the origami paper with the colored side facing up. This will form the visible surface of your mantis.

Step 2: Fold Diagonally

Fold the paper diagonally to form a triangle, then unfold. Repeat with the other diagonal to create an “X” crease on the paper.

Step 3: Fold Horizontally and Vertically

Fold the paper in half horizontally, then unfold. Repeat vertically to form a “+” crease. Your paper should now have a grid of intersecting creases.

Step 4: Create a Preliminary Base

Using the creases, collapse the paper into a smaller triangle with two layers. This is called the preliminary base.

Step 5: Shape the Head and Body

  1. Fold the top point of the triangle downward to form the mantis’s head. Adjust the size for proportion.
  2. Fold the bottom tip upward slightly to create the abdomen of the mantis.

Step 6: Form the Front Legs

  1. Take the sides of the base and fold them outward to form the iconic long front legs of the mantis.
  2. Adjust the angles to create the signature pose of a praying mantis.

Step 7: Shape the Hind Legs

Fold the lower sides outward at an angle to create the hind legs. These should be slightly shorter than the front legs for realism.

Step 8: Adjust and Refine

Carefully adjust all folds, ensuring the head, legs, and body are symmetrical and balanced.

Step 9: Add Details (Optional)

Use a pen or marker to draw small eyes or other details to enhance your paper mantis.

Tips for Folding an Origami Mantis:

  1. Use Thin Paper: Lightweight paper makes folding intricate details like the legs easier.
  2. Choose Natural Colors: Green or brown paper gives your mantis a realistic appearance.
  3. Be Precise: Clean and accurate folds ensure a professional-looking mantis.

Why Fold an Origami Mantis?

The origami mantis is a unique and fascinating design, symbolizing patience and mindfulness. It’s perfect for insect enthusiasts, decorations, or as part of a larger origami insect collection. Folding a mantis is also a fun way to challenge yourself and improve your origami skills.

Now that you’ve completed this step-by-step origami mantis tutorial, you have your own paper mantis! Create a group of mantises in various sizes and colors to showcase your folding skills. Happy folding!