The Three-t Kite

The Three-T Kite
Fig.8  larger view

As the name implies, this kite is an arrangement of three triangles, which give it a rather unusual look. It is a flat-type form which depends for stability upon a two-piece bridle and a flexible tail. The backbone, A (Fig. 8), is 2 ft. 10 in. in length, and is cut from 3/8 in. square stripwood, which must be straight and smooth. Drill holes 1/2 in. from each end, through which the bracing string is threaded. The ends are also notched, as shown. Two pieces of 3/8 in. square stripwood are used for the crossbars, B and C. The top crossbar, B (Fig. 8) is 2 ft. in length, and the lower one, C (Fig. 8) is 1 ft. 6 in. Drill and notch the ends as in the case of the backbone.

Fix the crossbars to the backbone, B, 3 in. from the top, and C, 6 in. from the bottom. Use glue and strong thread to make firm joints. Glue small blocks to the backbone on each side of the crossbars to help to keep them straight.

The bracing is added next. Begin at the top of the framework and tie a length of thin strong string to the top crossbar, 6 in. from one end. Thread this through the hole in the backbone, and tie to the other side of the crossbar, 6 in. from the end. Next, pass a length through one of the holes in the top crossbar, and tie one end. Take the string to a position on the backbone, which is 61/2 in. from the bottom end. Bind it round the bottom crossbar once or twice, and take it to the other end of the top crossbar, where it is threaded through the hole and tied. Tie a length of string to one end of the bottom crossbar, after passing it through the hole, and tie. Then thread it through the holes in the ends of the backbone and crossbar and tie. A secondary bracing string is run round the edges of the framework, making use of the grooves provided. The bracing should be taut, in order to provide a firm foundation for the covers, and to keep the framework in its proper shape.

The cover is added in three separate pieces. Use unbleached greaseproof paper, or lightweight cotton material such as cambric. Cut pieces for the top triangle, which forms the nose; for the large triangle, which forms the wing, and for the smaller tail-piece. Lay the framework upon the material and mark the shapes. Allow a margin of 1 in. all round and cut out.

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