Jumping Origami Snake

Add a bit of fun to your paper crafts with a jumping origami snake!

This playful design is perfect for kids and adults alike, making it a delightful addition to any origami collection.

This easy origami jumping snake is a delightful project that combines the art of paper folding with a touch of charm.

This playful creation not only looks charming but also has a fun surprise element; when you press down on its tail, the snake will spring back, creating a jumping motion that's sure to entertain.

Perfect for kids and adults alike, this homemade craft idea is an excellent way to engage in creative play.

This origami snake is a fantastic introduction to the world of origami, offering an exciting way to explore creativity while developing fine motor skills. It's a great activity for family gatherings, classrooms, or even solo crafting sessions.

You can personalize your snake by using colorful paper, adding googly eyes, or even decorating it with patterns.

Once completed, it can serve as a fun toy or an engaging decorative piece.

This paper craft is versatile enough to be made for parties, as educational tools for teaching about snakes, or simply as a quirky decoration for your desk or shelf.

Whether you're an origami novice or a seasoned pro, this jumping origami snake is sure to bring smiles and laughter.

This easy project is perfect for those looking to add a bit of fun to their crafting repertoire.

Other easy origami animals you might like to make include this origami butterfly, classic paper crane, origami mouse, talking origami fish, and origami bunny.

Why You'll Love This Pattern

This pattern is simple and requires just a few folds, making it ideal for beginners. Its jumping action adds an element of playfulness that makes it great for kids' parties or as a charming gift.

Plus, the materials are minimal-just a single piece of paper-and the results are both visually appealing and interactive.

Skill Level

★★★☆☆ (Easy to Intermediate)

Materials Needed

• Origami Paper - One square sheet.
• Googly Eyes - Optional for added character.
• Markers or Crayons - Optional for decoration.

Paper Size Options

• 6x6" (15cm x 15cm) Paper - Standard size for a medium snake.
• 8x8" (20cm x 20cm) Paper - Makes a larger snake for more dramatic jumps.

Paper Type & GSM

For this project, lighter paper (around 70-80 GSM) is ideal as it allows for easier folding and better spring action. Consider using patterned or colored paper to make your snake visually interesting and to add your personal touch.

Instructions

Step 1:  Start with the color you want your snake to be facing down.

Step 2: Fold the bottom edge to meet the top edge.

Step 3: Fold the bottom edge to meet the top edge once more.

Step 4: Unfold previous step.

Step 5: Fold the paper in half from right to left.

Step 6: Unfold previous step.

Step 7: Fold the bottom edge to meet the middle crease.

Step 8: Fold the top edge to meet the middle crease.

Step 9: Fold the paper in half from left to right.

Step 10: Fold the left edge (top layer only) to meet the right edge.

Step 11: Fold the right edge (top layer only) to meet the middle crease.

Step 12: Flip your paper over from top to bottom.

Step 13: Repeat steps 10 and 11.

Step 14: Unfold the previous 4 steps.

Step 15: Rotate your paper 90 degrees.

Step 16: Fold the top left point to meet the middle crease, forming a small triangle.

Step 17: Repeat previous step for remaining points.

Step 18: Unfold the triangles on the top.

Step 19: Open out the top right corner and push it in following the existing crease lines.

Step 20: Repeat previous step for top left corner.

Step 21: Rotate your paper 90 degrees.

Step 22: Fold the right side of the paper towards the left on an angle, lining its edge along the middle of the 2 crease lines (see picture). The top right point should line up with the bottom edge of the paper.

Step 23: Unfold previous step.

Step 24: Repeat the previous 2 steps but this time fold the right side of the paper up.

Step 25: Rotate the paper 90 degrees.

Step 26: Squash fold the paper down along the crease lines you made in steps 22 and 24.

Step 27: Rotate the paper 90 degrees so the head is on the left.

Step 28: Fold the bottom edge up to the middle crease.

Step 29: Repeat on top edge.

Tips For Success

• Crisp Folds - Use a bone folder or a similar tool to achieve sharp creases.
• Test the Jump - Adjust the tail's length to see how it affects the jumping action.
• Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
• Loose Folds - Ensure all folds are firm to create the best jumping effect.
• Paper Quality - Using too thick or heavy paper can hinder the snake's ability to jump.

Color, Paper Ideas, and Variations

Try using vibrant colors or patterned paper to make your snake eye-catching.

You can create a whole family of snakes in different sizes and colors for a fun display.

Adding decorations like stickers or drawing patterns on your snake can personalize your project further.

Consider making snakes in Halloween colors for a festive twist or themed colors for birthday parties.

FAQ

Other Paper Crafts You Might Like To Try:

• Triangle Origami Corner Bookmark
• Christmas Tree Napkins Fold
• Origami Swan
• Origami Mouse
• Origami Stocking
• Large Paper Flowers
• Origami Cup

Helpful Origami Tips

If you're curious to learn more about origami, you might like to look at our basic guides on how to make some common origami folds.

Start with the valley fold and mountain fold-these are the foundation of most origami models.

Once you're comfortable, you might like to try the petal fold for 3D shapes, and explore the bird base and square base for more complex designs.

The water bomb base is also great for creating inflatable or geometric models, like this inflatable origami rabbit.