This article describes how to make a dragon out of paper using the origami technique, as well as in the form of crafts. There are many options for making fairy-tale creatures, ranging from the simplest products that are suitable for children, to the most complex figures that require a large number of actions.
Together with your children, you can make light paper crafts, for example, from disposable plates or toilet paper rolls. For origami lovers, various sources provide many models with step-by-step instructions, photographs and diagrams.
Basic principles of origami
For a beginner who decides to make an origami craft for the first time, difficulties arise in performing the actions correctly. To avoid them and not be disappointed in the final result, you need to learn the basic rules of working with the origami technique:
- You need to choose the right sheet. It must be the correct size and the required density. For a beginner, it is better to practice a little first.
- All operations with paper should be performed on a flat surface. Not a single experienced master in this matter will assemble a figure without proper support.
- To make the figure beautiful, you need to carefully smooth out all the folds with your fingernail, this will help give the product a beautiful shape.
- All parts, especially small ones, must fit perfectly together.
It is better for beginners to choose simpler models at the initial stage, so as not to discourage them from further creativity using the origami method.
Adviсe
Dragons using the origami technique are considered one of the most complex crafts that not everyone can handle. The work requires a person to be careful and attentive.
If you're trying your hand at it for the first time, you might find these tips useful:
- First, learn how to perform basic figures. Practice with simpler diagrams.
- The Chinese dragon is ideal for the first product. It is not as labor intensive as other options.
- For beginners, it is better to use a heat gun to secure the paws to the body. This way the structure will be stable, and the result of the work will please the owner for a long time.
Types of origami
There are several ways to create a paper dragon, for example, simple, modular or schematic. You can immediately find different types of origami dragon and get acquainted with each one separately.
Schematic origami will not differ much from simple origami, since it is a more child-friendly option for creating work. The final figure will be sketchy, vaguely reminiscent of the desired mythical dragon.
Modular paper dragons will represent detailed characters; using this method, you can easily copy a cartoon or movie character.
The main task is to manufacture small modules in the amount of 700-1000 pieces or more, then to draw up a scheme for attaching them to each other.
Which paper is better to choose?
The choice of material for crafts must be taken seriously. After all, the entire assembly process, and ultimately the type of product, depends on what paper is chosen. There are several types of paper suitable for working in origami style:
- colored;
- corrugated;
- white printer paper.
To work using the torsion method, corrugated paper is usually used. With its help, you can make a small dragon; to do this, you should twist the paper into a rope and be sure to do this with wet hands.
With this style of crepe paper origami, the dragon is perfect for beginners. This “snake” will only take ten minutes to complete.
The classic version of origami is that it uses specialized paper that is sold in craft stores. If it is not possible to purchase one, then you can use regular paper, which is used for printing on a printer.
When choosing paper for a dragon, you need to consider some nuances:
- If your work will use colored paper, then it is best to opt for double-sided or metallized paper. It will help make the dragon's skin much more natural.
- If you prefer regular office paper, you can first print a pattern in the form of scales on it. This trick will help make it look more like a mythical creature.
An origami dragon craft made from white paper can be painted in the desired color.
This process will appeal to children, as they really love to do it. After all, in the process of creativity you can realize your deepest desires.
There are several types of paper that can be used:
- colored;
- dense, intended for printing on a printer;
- corrugated.
Corrugated paper is sometimes used in the twisting technique. You can make a small paper dragon out of it by twisting it into a flagellum with wet hands.
However, this version of the craft will look more like a snake. Anyone can cope with this task in about ten minutes.
For classic origami, special paper is used, which can be purchased in craft stores. You can also use office or colored paper products. To make the craft more interesting, you should listen to some tips:
- When choosing colored paper, it is better to give preference to double-sided or metallized paper. This way you can achieve a greater resemblance to the skin of an animal.
- If you take office paper, you can first print a pattern on it that looks like dragon scales. This way the dragon will look more natural and will look like a real mythical creature.
If the craft is made from plain white paper, then after it is ready, it can be painted. Children love this activity very much. They can make all their fantasies come true.
Crafts made from natural materials - a large review :: This is interesting!
In this collection, I posted all the crafts my children and I made from natural materials in one post. From acorns, chestnuts, seeds, sticks and branches, pebbles, shells, leaves, flowers and berries. I was even surprised how many of them we have! And we made each one with our own hands! But there will be more
