How to Build a Kite

Learning to build a kite can be as exciting as trying to get it to fly. Fortunately the process is fairly easy. You can start by gathering the following materials.

Necessary Tools

A ruler
String (a strong type is needed)
Paper (the hard variant)
A knife
Scissors
Kite frame
Pen or marker
Dowel rods (2)
Glue
Ribbons or other decorative trimmings

Cutting and Positioning the Rods

Slice two pieces from the dowel rods. One should be 24 inches long. The other one needs to be 16 inches long. Use the pen to mark the halfway point of the 16 inch piece. Mark the 24 inch piece a third of its length.

Start to build a kite by putting the rods on top of each other. Align them so a cross shape is created. You have done it right if the marks you made meet up.

Attaching the Strings

Cut some string. Use it to fasten the rods together. Tie the string at the point where the rods meet up and join. Make sure the tie is secure. Use the scissors to cut off any extra string.

Take the knife and make a small nick at the end of each rod. These notches will be for the string. Put a string above the frame. Be certain that it is winded at the top of the rod. When you build a kite the strings have to be drawn around the frame edges. The strings should be fitted into the notches properly. As you get to the topmost part fasten the strings together.

Finishing the Frame

Set the frame on the paper. Slice the paper according to the frame’s shape. You may use the scissors or the knife. A ½ inch edge should be left when cutting near the strings.

Put some glue on the paper edges. Fold it over the string. It should also fit into the frame too. Apply enough glue so that it doesn’t fall apart as you build a kite.

Get some more string and wind it to the shorter rod’s two ends. The string must be lengthier than the rod itself. Repeat the process for the longer rod. Fasten the strings tight.

Grab both strings where they join up. Tie them with another string (cut one).

Tips and Warnings

Get some ribbons and glue them for the tail. Use different colors. You can also put ribbons and other trimmings along the corners of the diamond. You can also use multicolored paper and frames.

Practice a lot. If you’ve never flown one before it can be hard to manage. It’s best if you practice in areas with light wind. Don’t play with them when there’s lightning or near electrical power lines. Also try not to get them entangled in trees. If they get entangled it can be hard to remove. Once you have enough experience, you can join competitions and see how far you’ve gone.

Even if you’re no longer a kid, it’s still cool to build a kite. It can be a fun hobby and you can spend lots of great moments using it with your friends.