2D diagram
15.2415.2415.2415.24

How to make an origami cicada

Origami Cicada: try all 10 steps in the 3D player. Turn and replay every move. Print the complete diagram sheet or save it as PDF.

Easy10 steps6 × 6 in · One square

The traditional helmet-base cicada, with two long wings and a white V below its head.

You need
One square of two-color origami paper. No glue or scissors.
Start
Start white side up, with one corner pointing up. The colored reverse becomes the head and wings.
Tips
  • Match the wing angles before pressing their folds.
  • Leave a little white paper showing below the head flap.
Symbols, bases & terms ↗
Finish

Your model is ready

Your cicada is folded. Press the sides flat and draw two small eyes on the head if you like. The finished cicada, with its head above the wings.

3D paper
10 steps · press any step to watch it in 3D

Step-by-step diagrams

Valley fold Mountain fold Color side White side
  1. 1

    Fold a triangle

    Fold the bottom corner up to the top corner.

  2. 2

    Mark the middle

    Fold the left corner to the right corner, press, and open again.

  3. 3

    Raise the left corner

    Fold the left corner up to the top point. Its lower edge meets the middle crease.

  4. 4

    Raise the right corner

    Fold the right corner up to the same point, making a small diamond.

  5. 5

    Lower the left wing

    Fold the front left point down along the sloping line. Let its tip reach a little to the left of the bottom point.

  6. 6

    Lower the right wing

    Fold the front right point down the same way. Match the two wing tips, leaving a narrow gap between them.

  7. 7

    Fold the white chest

    Fold just the front layer of the top point down across the wings. Its point stays on the middle crease.

  8. 8

    Fold the colored head

    Fold the remaining top point down. Stop a little above the white point, leaving a white V showing below the colored head.

  9. 9

    Narrow the left side

    Fold the left side behind along the sloping line, taking the wing's outer edge with it. Keep the head and lower wing tip in place.

  10. 10

    Narrow the right side

    Fold the right side behind to match the left side. Press both wings flat.

  11. ✓

    Finish

    Your cicada is folded. Press the sides flat and draw two small eyes on the head if you like. The finished cicada, with its head above the wings.