Praying Mantis (Robert Lang)

Yes, the Praying Mantis is constructed entirely from a single square sheet of paper without any cuts or glue. This showcases Lang's extraordinary advanced folding techniques, as the model must allocate paper for multiple spindly legs, antennae, and segmented body parts from one continuous plane. The precise proportions required to achieve this realism make it a mathematical marvel.

Folding the Praying Mantis requires mastery of advanced techniques, including closed unsinks, swivels, and delicate shaping to thin out the legs and antennae. Lang's method of combining geometry and paper folding produces remarkably detailed and lifelike representations of insects. It also often requires wet-folding to round out the abdomen and hold the insect's characteristic posture securely.

Diagrams and crease patterns for Robert Lang's insect models, including the Praying Mantis, can be found in his comprehensive books like *Origami Insects and Their Kin* or *Origami Design Secrets*. These texts provide deep dives into the theory of how a single square can be mapped to form complex biological shapes. The crease pattern alone is highly intricate and often requires an advanced understanding of circle-packing to interpret.

To successfully fold the Praying Mantis, it is highly recommended to use thin, strong paper such as tissue foil or artisan papers like Unryu. Because the model requires forming incredibly thin legs and fragile antennae, thick paper will result in bulky, unrealistic appendages. Utilizing a paper backing with foil allows the folder to shape the delicate limbs while maintaining structural rigidity.