How to Make an Ancient Chinese Kite
Kites have been an important part of Chinese culture for thousands of years. Early kites were made of very thin, light wood and were called muyuan. However, with the invention of paper, making and flying kites became much easier. Paper kites are called zhiyuan. Ancient-style kites can be as simple or as complex as you like. The most basic, ancient style for a Chinese kite is a square kite without a tail.
Instructions
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1
Cut piece of very light rice paper into a square about 20 inches on each side.
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2
Paste a 2 inch triangle of paper on each corner to form a pocket. Allow the paste to dry.
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3
Slip a single piece of bamboo, either a thin piece of whole bamboo or a bamboo strip, between two opposite corners (on the diagonal) to make the backbone of the kite.
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4
Cut a piece of bamboo 2 to 3 inches longer than the distance between the other two corners. Slip this piece into the pockets so that it forms a bow shape. The tension on the bow will keep the kite surface taut. The bow and the backbone should cross abut 1/3 of the way down the kite. If the paper begins to rip, try using a thinner piece of bamboo that places less stress on the corners.
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Poke a hole in the paper where the bow and backbone cross and a hole about 1/3 from the other end of the backbone. Tie a piece of string between these two points. The string should go through the two holes and tie to the backbone using knots. Experiment with length until you find one that helps keep the kite balanced in flight.
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Tie the main kite string to the string between the two points on the backbone. Tie this string with a knot loose enough so you can adjust its position to suit the wind conditions.
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Tips & Warnings
Paint your kite, if desired. However, remember that thick paint will add weight to the kite.
