3.5 Tutorial: Origami Ryujin

The Ryujin 3.5, designed by Satoshi Kamiya, is widely considered one of the most complex origami models ever created, often taking master folders over a month to complete from a single sheet of paper. There is no single "all-in-one" video for this model; instead, the process is broken down into highly technical stages: preparation, pre-creasing, and specific section collapses like the scales, head, and legs. 1. Preparation & Materials

What is the Origami Ryujin 3.5?

Before diving into a "tutorial," you must understand the beast you are hunting. The Ryujin (Japanese for "Dragon God") 3.5 is a composite model featuring over 1,000 scales, a serpentine body, six legs, branching horns, and a flowing mane. It is folded from a single, uncut square of paper. origami ryujin 3.5 tutorial

• The Head: The head has multiple horns and a complex jaw. Be gentle. The paper layers are thickest here. Use tweezers for the small horns if necessary.
• The Wings: The wings are not just flat planes; they should have a natural curve. If you use wire in the edge of the wing (a common cheating method for display pieces), insert it now.
• The Claws: The Ryujin has distinct claws. To make them sharp, you must "pinch" the paper tightly. Dampening the paper slightly (if using Elephant Hide) helps the claws set permanently.

: Expert folders recommend a square sheet measuring at least 1.5 to 2 meters The Ryujin 3

Phase 2: The Monotony of the Grid

Every great tessellation begins with a grid. For the Ryujin 3.5, you will likely be working with a 32x32 or 48x48 grid, depending on the specific diagram variation you are following. The Head: The head has multiple horns and a complex jaw

To get the dragon’s signature back spines and body scales, you will execute a maneuver known as the "Sink."