How to Make a Tropical Pineapple From Paper

In this Instructable, you'll learn how to make a pineapple from paper. Despite how complicated it looks, it's quite simple to make. Just follow the instructions and you'll have a delicious tropical fruit in no time.

- Paper:

1. Approx. 50 sheets of yellow paper (A4)
2. Approx. 5 sheets of green paper (A4)

- Scissors

Cut a sheet of yellow paper into 8 10x7.5cm rectangles. These will be the pieces that make up the pineapple body. Because you’ll be cutting many of them, bulldog-clip several pages together to save time.

TIP: Fold the sheet of paper lengthwise, and then crosswise, and then lengthwise again (making eight rectangles) to easily make creases on where to cut.

Fold each rectangle into a triangle module. This one simple piece makes up the repeating structure of the pineapple body. You will need around 392 in total. Follow the video above for the exact folding method.

Start by connecting two triangles by pushing the pointed tabs of one triangle into the pockets of another. Continue adding triangles in the same way, forming a curved chain.

Once all 56 triangles are connected (with 28 on the outside and 28 on the inside), gently bend the chain into a circle and connect the final triangle to the first to close the ring.

This ring will become the top of the pineapple body, so keep it neat and even.

Keep adding more layers, making sure the long side of the triangle is on the outside. Each layer has the same amount of triangles but the rounded shape is achieved by tilting the triangles slightly inward or outward. Do not place triangles on too firmly as you'll need to shape it at the end.

Once you’re happy with the height (mine uses 14 layers, but do what you think is best), flip it over.

Aim to:

1. Make the top hole as small as possible
2. Tighten the bottom curve
3. Create an oval pineapple shape by gently squeezing and reshaping (Use your hand inside to stretch areas if needed.)

Be very careful and ensure that triangles are not forced!

Cut out sword-shaped leaves on the green paper in various sizes. Roll up an a4 sheet of green paper lengthwise and insert it through the top of the pineapple, until it touches the table. Add large leaves around it, pushing them between the tube and the pineapple. Repeat again with another layer of slightly smaller leaves, and then again with even smaller leaves. Move, add, and trim leaves until it looks just right.

And now, you are now the proud owner of an origami pineapple. Admire your beautiful creation. Thanks for reading!