Colorful Origami Icosahedron

This tutorial will tell you how to create an origami icosahedron step-by-step with photos and videos. The icosahedron is constructed using 30 Sonobe units, which are origami modules designed by Mitsunobu Sonobe, a well-known origami master.

The icosahedron can be classified as a kusudama, which is a traditional Japanese decoration that can be made using origami.

All you'll need is 30 sheets of origami paper. If you don't have origami paper, you can use square paper or cut your own.

Although it is not needed, if this is your first time trying origami, it may be easier to use glue or tape to keep the pieces of paper together.

Fold the paper in half and unfold. If your paper is one-sided, make sure that the white side is facing up, as shown in the video.

Fold the two edges of the paper to the crease made in the previous step and unfold.

Fold two outer opposite corners to the crease created in the previous step.

Fold the paper along the creases created in fold 2.

Fold the corners (opposite of the corners folded in fold 3) so that the edges meet the side of the paper, as shown in the video.

Unfold the previous step and tuck in the corners of the paper into the flaps along the crease made in the previous step, as shown in the video.

Flip the paper over and fold the corners in to make a square. Then, fold the paper backwards in half. Unfold.

Fold 29 more Sonobe units to make a total of 30.

Take 3 of the Sonobe units and tuck the flaps into the pockets of the unit, as shown in the video. This should make a small pyramid-like shape. While it is not necessary, especially if you have made precise folds, you can use glue or tape to help keep the tabs in.

Continue connecting units in the same way as the previous step, creating more pyramid-like shapes, as the second image shows. As you connect more units, you will want to create 5-unit star formations, as shown in the third image. You can check the video for clarification.

Once you have used your final unit, you should be able to connect all of the units so that there are no flaps or holes in the icosahedron. You may have to pinch, tuck, and prod the origami for a minute to close all the gaps, but it shouldn't be too difficult to do.

If you finished your first icosahedron and want to try making more, play around with different origami paper sizes, colors, and patterns. I made three icosahedrons of three different sizes and two different pattern papers. Even with the same paper, I played around with different ways of grouping the units together.

Play around with it, have fun, and get creative!