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The framework is now ready to be braced. Tie a length of fine string to the end of the top crossbar. Take it over the end of the centre bar, and tie at the joint below it. Repeat the procedure for the other side. Next tie a length of string to the end of the bottom crossbar and tie to the backbone where the inner canes are joined. From there, take it to the other end of the crossbar, and tie. Make the bracing strings taut.
At this stage, prepare the cover. Lay the framework on a sheet of unbleached greaseproof paper, and draw the shape as at J. Add a margin of 1 in. all round for overlapping and cut out. It is a matter of choice whether or not the small curved centre-piece is cut out. Slit the margin at intervals to make the work of wrapping it round the framework easier.
The cover may now be decorated. Eyes, scales, and fin marks may be painted in blue on a background of aluminium paint. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly and then glue the cover to the framework and bracing strings.
The bridle is formed of thin strong string, which is 3 ft. 6 in. in length. Secure it to the backbone in the form of a loop at the positions shown at K (Fig. 13). The kite line is attached to the bridle by means of a bowline knot and a reef knot. See 'Knots' in Chapter 7.
This kite requires a tail which is 4 ft. 6 in. in length. Small fish, 5 in. long by 21/2 in. wide, cut from thin cardboard and having four small holes punched down the centre, are used for the tail pieces. They are spaced 5 in. or 6 in. apart, and are threaded on to the string by means of the holes. Tie a bow at the bottom of the string. The tail fish match the general colour scheme, for example, one blue, the next aluminium and so on.
J and K (Fig. 13) show additional decoration to the kite. This is in the form of strips of paper attached to strings, which are fastened to the top curve of E, and to the top curves of F and G.
A large fish kite may be made by doubling all the measurements given. In this case | in. square stripwood and 5 mm. centre cane would be used, and stronger string would be needed for the bridle and kite line. One could also use lightweight cloth instead of paper for the cover.
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