Benjamin Franklin Kite

TIME TO COMPLETE

30 min. to an hour

WHAT WILL YOU MAKE?

You will learn to construct a simple paper kite.

WHAT WILL YOU NEED?

Crafting Materials
Other Materials
Paper
Tape (Duct, masking, etc)
Upcycled / Recycled materials

STEP 1

Prepare the frame

Make a notch at each end of the dowel using the craft knife. Make sure that the notches are parallel to each other. Mark a spot on the longer dowel that is 6 inches from the end of it. Mark a spot on the shorter dowel that is 10 inches from the end of it. Match up the marks you just made to make a "t" shape.

STEP 2

Secure the frame

Cut a length of string that's approximately 2.5 times the circumference of the kite. Wrap the string around the two sticks to connect them together. It helps to make an "X" shape with the string. When the frame feels sturdy, tie a knot to secure it. Check that all the notches are parallel to the ground, if not, twist the dowel until they all match up.

STEP 3

Create a diamond

Thread the string from the center of the frame to the outside through the notches at the end of the dowels to make a diamond shape. Wrap around the frame with your string twice. Bring the string back to the center of the frame and wrap around both dowels to make the same "X" shape from step 2. Tie another knot. Cut the string.

STEP 4

Cut paper to correct shape and attach to the frame.

Place kite frame on top of the piece of paper or plastic bag. Draw an outline of the kite that is a little bit bigger than the kite. Cut out your kite shape with scissors. Tape the frame to the paper. Fold the edges of the paper over the string frame. Tape down the paper. Reinforce the top and bottom corners of the kite with tape.

STEP 5

Create a bridle

Using something sharp, like a pen or craft knife, make a hole through the corners you just reinforced with tape. ¬ª Thread string through the top hole and tie a knot to secure it. ¬ª Cut the string so that it's long enough to reach the bottom hole. ¬ª Thread the string through the bottom hole and tie a knot to secure it. This is your bridle.

STEP 6

Attach the tail

Make a tail with your ribbon that's about 2 yards long. ¬ª Attach it to the bottom of your kite. ¬ª Tie bows around your kite's tail.

STEP 7

Attach flying string

Attach string at the kite's "tow point", this is about one third of the way down the kite's bridle. You are ready to fly.

Please Note

Your safety is your own responsibility, including proper use of equipment and safety gear, and determining whether you have adequate skill and experience. Power tools, electricity, and other resources used for these projects are dangerous, unless used properly and with adequate precautions, including safety gear and adult supervision. Some illustrative photos do not depict safety precautions or equipment, in order to show the project steps more clearly. Use of the instructions and suggestions found in Maker Camp is at your own risk. Maker Media, Inc., disclaims all responsibility for any resulting damage, injury, or expense.