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Now cover the framework with paper. Tissue paper, pure unbleached greaseproof or pure ribbed kraft may be used. See the notes on paper in Chapter 7,
under the heading 'Materials'. Cut the paper to the required shape (F, Fig. 1) this allows a 2 in. margin at the top and bottom for overlapping the
crossbars. Cut narrow V-shaped slits at regular intervals along the margins. The cover may now be
decorated. Suggested designs are given in Chapter 7, in the section on 'Accessories'.
The cover is secured to the framework with thin glue, the margins overlapping the crossbars.
It will be seen that the cover is not an exact oblong, being wider at the ends than in the middle.
This means that when it is fixed in place, the middle area will be tightly stretched, and the ends
will be rather loose by comparison. This slackness should be equal at both ends. Take care not to
wrinkle the paper. Paper strips, 4 in. in width, are glued over the crossbars and the short sides of
the cover, for strengthening.
The bridle (G, Fig. 1) is formed in two parts. The string for the top loop is 2 ft. 6 in. in length.
It is tied to the top crossbar, 6 in. from each end. The bottom loop requires a 3 ft. 6 in. length of
string. This is tied at the centre of the top loop, and also to the backbone just below the bottom
joint. Glue a small block of 1/4 in. stripwood to the backbone, just below this tying point to prevent
the bridle from slipping. It will be realized that the cover will have to be pierced when the top loop
is being tied. Glue thin cardboard washers to the cover at these places to prevent the paper from tearing in flight.
The kite line is attached to the bridle by means of a bowline knot and a reef knot. See H (Fig. 1)
for an illustration of these. Further notes on knots will be found in Chapter 7, under the heading
'Methods'. These knots will permit the line to be adjusted on the bridle, so as to obtain the best
angle for flying the kite. A kite flies at an angle to the wind and the most effective one is found
by experiment.
A few optional extras will enhance the appearance of the kite. For example, fringes may be fastened
to the top and bottom bracing strings, and a tassel suspended from the bottom of the backbone.
Such extras are described in Chapter 7, under the heading 'Accessories'.
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