How to Choose Materials to Make a Kite

The kind of materials that you choose to make your kite out of affects the way that your kite performs. Materials like paper and lightweight fabrics are perfect items that can be found in most households. These materials aren't very durable though and your kite may be good for only one use or require constant repair. Other materials like mylar and nylon are more durable if you want a kite that will last.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Decide how much you want to use your kite. If you're only going to use the kite once or twice, you can use butcher paper or tissue paper. These materials are easy to find and are good for a kite that is only to be used once. If you are going to be using the kite more then you should look into other more durable materials like a lightweight cotton.

2. Consider how much time you want to spend on your kite. The kinds of materials that you choose for you kite greatly change the amount of time that it is going to take to construct the kite. Papers like mylar and butcher paper only require cutting and gluing. They are fairly easy to get onto the kite frame. You can also use rip stop nylon and polyester cotton, but these materials require a great deal more time since the fabrics will have to be sewn onto the frame of the kite.

3. Choose how you want your kite to look. This can change the materials that you use since each material has a different look and can be decorated differently. Papers like mylar and butcher paper tear easily but are simple to paint and decorate. Nylon comes in a variety of colors but is extremely difficult to paint or decorate. Polyester cotton is lightweight and extremely easy to paint and decorate but can be difficult to sew onto the kite.