Q&A for How to Make an Origami Dinosaur

For those starting with origami, I recommend acquiring a few simple books that teach the fundamental folds, such as valley folds and mountain folds. The emphasis should be on developing hand-coordination skills and precision in execution. Taking one's time is crucial, considering the importance of accuracy in following instructions. While some instructional books may lack clarity, I advocate for a multimedia approach, favoring audiovisual learning over strict reliance on written materials. Video tutorials, in my opinion, offer a clearer understanding, but combining them with instructional books can provide a more comprehensive learning experience. Observing someone actually fold the paper in real-time aids in grasping the techniques.

Crafting a jumping frog involves using a square piece of paper, similar to the process of making a water bomb. Start by folding the paper in half to create a one-to-two ratio. Next, fold the other edge in half as well, going edge to edge, and leave it folded to maintain the one-to-two ratio. Now, take the top half of the folded rectangle and form a water bomb base by going from corner to corner and folding the top edge into the center line, effectively folding the top quarter of the paper. Once you have the water bomb base, fold the outer side edges underneath, creating the first flap. Afterward, fold the base to resemble a house shape. Now, fold the very bottom of the bottom quarter of the paper. To form the legs, it becomes a bit intricate. Open the model, flatten it out, and angle the corners, shaping the bottom legs first, followed by the top legs. Fold the model in thirds, creating a Z shape when viewed from the side. Using an index card can add springiness to the paper, enhancing the jumping effect. If using origami paper, simply push down and slowly slide your finger off the back to initiate a hopping motion. The top portion of the water bomb serves as the frog's nose. While there are more intricate frog designs, the basic process involves creating a water bomb base, folding edges, shaping legs and tails, and forming a Z shape for springiness. This simple origami frog can then be made to hop by sliding your finger off the back.

You just need to take the top side and bring it down to the bottom line, then crease. Then do the same with the right side. Look at the video above if you still don't get it.

Use origami paper, which is square and thin. You can take computer paper and cut it into squares.

Yes, you can use any paper that is easy to handle (printer paper, construction paper, etc.). But make sure that the paper is a square and has equal sides (unless the project calls for a different shape).

Fold the triangle back, then flip it over so that the upside-down triangle is facing you. Afterwards, fold the upside-down triangle back up, but don't fold about a centimeter of it.

For step 5, simply fold in half along the center line, and on step 6, fold one of the top edges to the horizontal line going from the two corners, unfold, and repeat.

No, you do not. You can just make a square from A4 paper and cut off the rest. Or, you can easily get origami paper at your local craft store or online.

You can firmly fold it with a coin, or any other hard object. If that doesn't work, try using glue or tape.

No, cardboard will be too stiff to make origami. If you do use it, your craft will most likely not turn out well as you will have a hard time trying to fold it properly.