How to Sew a Kite
Sew a kite as a family project, a hobby or a great way to enjoy a windy day. Kite building has existed for centuries in China, Japan, Korea, Bali, Malaysia and Thailand. Kite flying symbolizes many celebratory events in different cultures. Other places that have a long history of kite design are North and South America, Europe and Australia.
Things You'll Need
- 1 yard of nylon or dacron fabric
- Kate pattern
- Yard stick
- Ruler
- Marking pencil
- String
- Wooden dowels
- Wire, light gauge
- Sewing machine
- Sewing needle
- Nylon thread
- Fabric paint
- Permanent markers
Instructions
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Start with a simple kite sewing project. Use a sewing machine or sew the kite by hand. Involve the family in a simple kite building project to get familiar with kite construction.
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Make a diamond-shaped or tubular kite from a pattern. Gather kite sewing supplies and materials for construction. Clear off a large table or locate a space to spread out materials for the kite.
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Spread the kite fabric on a flat surface. Select a lightweight fabric that is 64 inches wide. Draw your kite on the fabric according to the pattern. Pay close attention to seam allowances. Use a ruler or a yard stick to mark the fabric for seams and slots for ribbing. Cut out the kite design you have drawn.
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Decorate the kite with fabric paint or permanent markers. Sew on an appliqué made from fabric scraps. Spell out a child's name, create an emblem or use any decorative embellishment imaginable, but try to keep the decorations to a minimum. Use paint and markers for elaborate designs.
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Sew seams by hand or use a sewing machine. Insert a light-gauge wire or 1/4-inch wooden dowels into the kite's seams. Kites must be lightweight to fly properly.
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Construct a tail. Cut four, 1-inch strips out of kite fabric each approximately 3 feet long. Sew the tails to the base of the kite for diamond shape. Attach two tails to begin. Add or remove tails according to kite's ability to fly with the tails attached.
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Tie string to the kite by using square knots. Secure the string according to the kite's pattern. Extend the string about 2 yards and release the kite to fly.
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Tips & Warnings
Walking or running backwards is the best method to launch the kite for flight. Be careful not to trip.
Search online to find a variety of kite patterns. Join a kite builders association and connect with kite building enthusiasts.
Use nylon thread for sewing. It's durable and lightweight.
Fly your kite an open field, park or clearing. Be aware of your surroundings including power lines, trees and buildings.
