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let’s go fly a kite

While there are many different kinds of kites, and kits for pre-fab kites are available in stores, this kite uses a single line and can be made from recycled materials. This tailless kite is called the Scott Sled kite, and it’s one of the most popular designs for homemade kites because it’s easy to make, sturdy and performs well in winds from 5 to 18 mph.

Gather:

  • 2 to 4 mm-thick plastic tarp (available at a hardware store or use a large lawn/leaf bag)
  • Three 1/8" thick wooden dowels, each 3' long
  • Roll of 2" clear plastic packaging tape
  • Strong cloth tape
  • 6' piece of 6 or 8 pound test monofilament fishing line
  • Fishing swivel
  • Small grommet tool; two grommets
  • Yardstick or tape measure
  • Permanent marker
  • Utility knife

Construct the kite fabric:

  • Spread the plastic out on the floor and use the marker and yardstick to mark a 40" X 36" rectangle.
  • On the long sides of the rectangle, mark off four 10” sections. On the short sides, make a mark 10” from the corners.
  • Cut out a 40" X 36" rectangle
  • Use the 10" marks as guides and cut off the corners of the rectangle. You now have the outline of the kite fabric.
  • Cut out a triangular vent in the lower third of the kite. You have now completed the final shape of the kite.

Attach the frame:

  • Lay the three wooden dowels vertically on the plastic surface, 10” apart.
  • Affix the ends of the dowels to the edges of the kite fabric with small, equally sized sections of the plastic packing tape. Wrap the tape over the edge of the fabric for added strength.
  • Attach the dowels to the rest of the kite fabric with more small sections of packing tape.

Attach the bridle: (the loop that connects the frame to the main kite line)

  • Before you attach the bridle to the outermost edges of the kite fabric, reinforce the attaching points.
    • Place small squares of cloth tape on both of the outermost edges of the kite fabric, trimming them to match the contour of the kite edge.
    • Place a grommet ½“ in from the edge on both sides.
  • Fold a 6’ piece of fishing line in half and mark the center point. Tie the fishing swivel in the center.
  • Thread each end of the fishing line through each of the grommets. Loop the end around to the front and tie it off.
  • You’ve formed your bridle and your kite is ready for its maiden flight.

Flying the kite:
Attach your kite line to the swivel in the center of the bridle and have fun!

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