It’s the perfect time to enjoy a relaxing craft as the temperatures cool down and the autumn leaves begin to fall.
This traditional origami snail is an interesting project that fits the season’s mood, with the soft rain outside and the golden leaves scattered on the ground.
While this paper snail is suitable for beginners, it’s definitely more challenging than other beginner models, like the origami leaf.
The step-by-step instructions will guide you through interesting folds. You’ll be swirling the paper to create the antennas and stretching the paper to make the snail’s shell.
Traditional Origami Snail Step-by-Step Instructions
- Difficulty: Beginner – Level 5
- Folding time: 15 minutes
- Model designer: Traditional
- Paper: Kami 15×15 cm
Step 1

Start with the colored side of the paper facing up. Fold and unfold both diagonals.
Step 3

Rotate the paper 45 degrees clockwise. Then, fold along the dotted lines using the existing creases to create a square base.
Step 5

Open the right flap and squash fold using the crease made in Step 4.
Step 11

Turn the model over and repeat Steps 7 to 10.
Step 12

Bring the left center flap to the right and repeat on the other side.
Step 13

Repeat Steps 7 to 10 on both sides, this time with the trisector angle on the left and the bisector angle on the right.
Step 14

Bring the right flap to the left, then repeat on the other side.
Step 15

Now, let’s focus on the top of the model and carefully inside reverse-fold the two flaps on the side. These will become the snail’s antennas.
Step 16

Tuck in the two center flaps.
Step 18

Swirl and shape the antennas to your taste.
Step 19

Lift the top layer. Then, gently open and stretch the vertical layers until it resembles a balloon (this will become the snail’s shell).
Well done! You’ve just made your very own origami snail.
Whether you’re using it for decorating, adding to your collection, or simply enjoying a peaceful activity on a rainy afternoon, your paper snail brings a touch of nature indoors.
Thanks for taking the time to fold with me. Don’t hesitate to share your creations with us in the comments or on socials.
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