Ready to make a super cute sea creature out of paper? This Origami Crab Craft is a fun and simple paper folding activity perfect for kids and beginners! With just a square sheet of paper and a few folds, you can create your own cheerful little crab — no sand or seawater needed!
Whether you’re learning origami for the first time or want a creative ocean-themed craft, this crab is sure to be a hit.
Supplies Needed to Make an Origami Crab
Before you start folding, grab these easy supplies from your craft box:
You’ll need:
- Colored craft papers (red, orange, or any color you like!)
- Scissors
- Craft glue
- Black sharpie
How to Make an Origami Crab
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your paper crab:
Step 1:
Start with a square piece of medium-weight craft paper (15cm x 15cm).
Step 2:
Fold the square paper in half vertically and horizontally, then unfold both folds.
Step 3:
Flip the paper over and fold it in half diagonally along both sides. Unfold again.
Step 4:
Now make valley folds along the vertical and horizontal creases and mountain folds along the diagonals to form a waterbomb base.
Step 5:
Flatten the waterbomb base neatly.
Step 6:
Fold the top-right diagonal side inward by about 45 degrees.
Step 7:
Do the same on the left side — these will be the crab’s claws!
Step 8:
Unfold the two sides.
Step 9:
Fold them inward again, shaping the claws more tightly this time.
Step 10:
Flip the crab over to the other side.
Step 11:
Fold the top corner down about 2 cm.
Step 12:
Fold the bottom-right side up by about 45 degrees.
Step 13:
Repeat with the bottom-left side — these are the crab’s legs.
Step 14:
Cut out two small white circles for eyes and use a black Sharpie to draw pupils.
Step 15:
Glue the eyes between the claws and draw a cute smiling mouth with your Sharpie to finish your origami crab!
Tips and Tricks
- Use red or orange paper for a classic crab look, or try bright tropical colors for something fun.
- Add googly eyes instead of paper eyes for a silly twist!
- Make a few crabs in different sizes to create a whole paper crab family.
Make It a Learning Moment
This Origami Crab Craft is perfect for an ocean-themed lesson or a summer craft project. Kids can learn about sea animals while improving fine motor skills and following directions.
More Fun Paper Crafts
If you loved this Origami Crab Craft, be sure to check out these other creative projects on Frosting & Glue:
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