The Star Kite

Fig.7  larger view

This pretty kite possesses two interesting features. One is that there is a centre piece of metal foil, which reflects the light; this is an effective decorative device. The other feature is that the kite is equipped with balancing cups, to assist its flight. The cups help to produce up-currents of air which give lift to the kite. Consequently, it should do well in a light breeze. Being designed for gentle weather, the kite is lightly constructed. The frame­work is comparatively slender. The kite must be handled with care.

As will be seen in Fig. 7, it is formed with a double frame - a diamond and a cross shape. The frame, A, is made first. Use 1/4 in. x 3/16 in. stripwood. Cut four pieces, each 1 ft. 5 in. in length. Assemble them in the shape of a square, by means of mitre joints. Small corner pieces, cut from 1/8 in. plywood to the shape of a triangle are fixed to the underside of the joints with glue and fine fretwork nails. An alternative method of joining the frame is also shown (B, Fig. 7). In this method, two of the strips measure 1 ft. 41/2 in. Secure these joints also with glue and fine fretwork nails. Drill holes to receive the nails part-way through the wood, so that it will not split. Make the joints as firm as possible, in view of the fact that this is the main frame.

The cross-shaped frame C (Fig. 7) requires three pieces 1/4 in. x 3/16 in. stripwood, D and E. Cut D, 2 ft. in length, groove the ends, and drill a small hole through, 1/2 in. from the bottom end. Fix this to the underside of the frame A, in the position shown, with glue and two 3/4 in. fretwork nails, the ends of which are turned over and hammered flat. This strut divides the frame, A, into two equal parts.

You will need next a centre-piece, F, which is cut from 1/8 in. plywood and is 2 in. square. Glue and nail it to the underside centre of the strut D. Use 5/8 in. fretwork nails, bent over and flattened at the ends. To this centre-piece and to the frame, A, glue and nail the two short cross-struts, E. Each measures 117/8 in. and is notched at the outer end. The idea of using two short pieces, is that they fit flush with the frame, A, which would not be possible with a long through strut.