Most simple paper animals have to be laid flat on the table once they are done. This pig does not. Build it on the diagonal, give it a couple of squash folds around the middle, and the four points of the square turn into legs that actually carry the body - a small thing, but it changes the model from a drawing into a toy.

Eleven steps is all it takes, and none of them are difficult. If you have folded a few animals before, the pocket in step 4 will feel familiar; if you have not, it is a good place to learn the move, because the paper is forgiving and the creases do not have to be perfect. Use paper around 15 cm square, fold the snout neatly, and the pig will sit on a shelf without any help.

This origami pig is not difficult to fold and makes a fine addition to your collection of origami animals. It can even stand up on its own four legs!

STEP 1.

Fold and crease in the direction of the arrow.

STEP 2.

Fold the paper along the dotted line in the direction of the arrow.

STEP 3.

Fold and crease in the direction of the arrow.

STEP 4.

Open the paper as shown to create a small pocket, then flatten down the sides of the pocket.

STEP 5.

Continue from step 4.

STEP 6.

Fold the remaining corners the same way as in the previous step.

STEP 7.

Fold backwards along the dotted line.

STEP 8.

Fold the paper along the dotted line in the direction of the arrow. Fold the reverse side in the same manner.

STEP 9.

Fold the paper with the dotted line on the inside.

STEP 10.

Fold the remaining part the same way, keeping the dotted line on the inside.

STEP 11.

Complete. Your pig is finished and can stand on its four legs.