Art Projects With Kites
According to NASA's history of kites, these flying forces have been in existence for many thousands of years. From ancient China to the Wright brothers' flying experiments and beyond, kites have found many uses across many different civilizations and cultures. Kids and adults alike can craft creative kite-making art projects that explore how to design these fine flying apparatuses as well as different ways to turn kite materials into reused art.
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Materials
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Whether you are making your own kite as an art project or using an existing one as a crafting item, it is best to know exactly what different materials these flyers are made from. Self-made kites can be put together using simple materials such as thin paper and wooden sticks or dowels. Cotton fabric and other types of cloth can also be used as kite materials. Many current commercial manufacturers use nylon or Mylar fabrics. Choose specific materials that meet your project needs and the age/skill level of the crafter. For example, if your young child is making her own decorative kite, try tissue or construction paper and thin dowels attached with school glue.
Kite Collage
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A collage art project is a simple, yet aesthetically pleasing, way to reuse and recycle your kites. Instead of tossing an old, worn or torn kite, salvage viable material and cut the fabric into different shapes and sizes. Using a sturdy piece of cardboard as a base and glue your cut kite pieces overlapping in different directions. Try cutting your cardboard base into a diamond shape to carry on the kite theme. Add a multimedia effect by painting over the dried collage or sprinkling glitter over the glue.
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Simple Kite
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Crafting a basic kite is a simple way to explore a flying theme with a young artist. Start with a diamond-shaped piece of paper. Thin drawing papers or even gift wrap works well for preschool aged children, while tissue paper may be a better option for elementary school children and older. Although tissue simulates true kite material in a way that construction or drawing paper doesn't, it may tear easily in little hands. Use clear drying school glue to attach two dowels or large craft sticks in a perpendicular manner, running from each corner of the paper. Glue a two-foot long piece of yarn or ribbon to the bottom corner, and decorate the kite with paints, stickers or markers. Although these cute crafts won't really fly, they will encourage kids to explore the artistic process while learning about kites.
Kite Garland
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Make a flying kite garland to decorate your home or use for a special celebration. Trace a repeating diamond pattern onto a long roll of butcher paper. Choose the length according to your needs. The garland should be at least three feet long, but may be much longer if desired. Paint or color the diamonds with markers. Add shape stickers or small drawings as more intricate details. Cut out the colored kites, and add small three- to four-inch long pieces of yarn or string to the bottom corner of each diamond. Hang the kite garland by the edges for a fun, festive way to decorate and party space.
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References
Resources
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