Use a bone folder to keep creases sharp, but avoid over-working the paper to prevent tearing. Phase 2: Shapping the Scales
The journey doesn't stop at video playlists. Here are other resources that can help you master specific steps and overcome the toughest challenges.
Apply Methyl Cellulose (MC) to help the paper hold its shape.
Extremely thin, strong paper like Ogasawara, Triple-tissue foil, or high-grade Origamido. origami ryujin 35 tutorial upd
The 3.5 version features improved, more secure scales and better, more anatomically correct scaling between the head and body. Conclusion
Needed for shaping the scales and head details.
: The transition from a flat, pre-creased sheet to a 3D dragon is highly volatile, with paper often curling or becoming too bulky to shape without advanced techniques like glue or Methyl Cellulose (MC). Critical Pre-Folding Advice Use a bone folder to keep creases sharp,
Old tutorials often fold the scales one by one as you shape the body. The updated, cleaner method is:
: The model features over 2,000 scales . Tutorials often focus on "fast methods" for shaping these using tools like toothpicks or mechanical pencils to poke and tuck the paper into curves.
Extremely thin, strong, and crisp. Origami Shop's Origamido , Wenzhou silk tissue, or a custom double-tissue treated with Methyl Cellulose (MC) are required. Standard paper will tear or become too thick. Apply Methyl Cellulose (MC) to help the paper hold its shape
: The legs are formed by collapsing the sides and bottom of a section simultaneously. This requires precisely matching mountain and valley folds so the paper lies flat.
The four legs extend from the corners of the main body grid. Compress the grid into tight steps to form the claws.
The defining feature of the Ryujin 3.5 is its overlapping body scales. This section requires thousands of repetitive, precise folds.
: High-quality Kraft paper , Wenzhou , or large rolls of thin, durable paper are preferred. Some folders piece sheets together since the seams are often hidden inside the body.