The Kitecraft

KITECRAFT
AND KITE TOURNAMENTS
BY CHARLES M. MILLER
ASSISTANT SUPERVISOR OF MANUAL TRAINING
Los ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
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THE MANUAL ARTS PRESS

PEORIA, ILLINOIS
COPYRIGHT, 1914,
CHARLES M. MILLER,
52C62
Printed in the United States of America
The North Wind is my prancing

The Bridle is my kite;
I'll
harness him,
'Till
my
I'll
steed,
drive him,
kite's
most out of
sight.
M.
/
saw you
toss
the kites on high,
And blow the birds about the sky,

And all about I heard you pass,
Like ladies' skirts across the grass.
Stevenson.
INTRODUCTION.
Perhaps the one word that best expresses the trend of education
at
the present
more and more

toward
time
is
the
life-likeness
diversification
into courses of study,
in
life-likeness.
in
The
trend
in
is
special
into groups for teaching
in
effort
putting manual training
multiplying courses in high schools,
rooms
toward
The
organization and methods.
which has resulted
viding ungraded and other
breaking grades up
word
elementary
proin
schools,
and promotions,
playgrounds and shops open afternoons and Saturdays,
in
in
keeping
opening the
in
school buildings evenings for social centers or socialized evening schools,

which has resulted in all these changes and others that might be
is
mentioned,
simply an effort to make the schools like life.
behind
is
this
that if a school is like life, children will
theory
school for the same reason that they like
life,
and the theory
is
The
like
sound.
Before these changes were introduced, our public schools were a composite structure,
which was
made up
nearly altogether of two elements, neither of
These two elements were the

any degree life-like.
medieval monastery, for order, and the 19th century factory, for process.
Kite-making in connection with schools is in line with this trend
toward
in
life-likeness.
As
the ideas and
have been worked out and carried
plans contained
into
execution
in
this
in
the
book
schools
of
Los Angeles by the author, they have demonstrated a wonderful socialBy recognizing kite-season in the schools and carrying
izing power.
the discussion of it into the shop and classrooms, ending with a great
kite-tournament each year, not only have very many boys been reached
who would not have responded to other influences, but the whole com-
munity has been
stirred to sympathetic interest in the schools.
the kind of influence which causes children to
feel
that school
This
is
is
life,
If the
and therefore makes tremendously for wholesome education.
as
ideas and plans of the author can be carried out elsewhere
they have
a
been in Los Angeles for several years, they must prove
help to the
cause of education.
M.
C. BETTINGER,
Assistant Superintendent of Schools.
PREFACE.
When we
little
started kite
work
in
Los Angeles City Schools, we
the
thought that so great an opportunity for
in a certain class of boys
was being
latent
power
we dream
of any
awakening
initiated, nor did
such kite tournaments as have been developed during the past six years.
Starting with half a dozen plans, sent out on mimeographed sheets to
the various schools
from time
to time
during the spring of 1907, the
number of kinds and designs have increased to a hundred or more.

Other cities desiring information regarding the work, a reprint was
published and has been in such demand that it was thought advisable
to write a
Many
text on the subject.
more comprehensive
of the former
in more
designs have been included, but none but what should be put
new
for
the
been
redrawn
have
of
these
and
most
permanent form,
The
left
plans are not complete in every detail, something being
that
so
the
in
is
but
there
suggestions
for the boy to work out,
enough
made by the average
by reasonable planning, most of the forms can be
work.
boy and
The
still
something will be
greatest
number
left
for the expert.
of kites will be
made by
fifth
and sixth year
and eighth for the larger

boys, but the spirit holds over into seventh
the
into
even
high school with model
and more complex forms, and
aeroplanes, etc.
It
is
the hope of the writer that this
little
book may be instrumental
hours in the
in giving our boys and girls suggestions for many happy
a good
also
serve
it
that
and
may
construction and flying of kites,
that
and
common
a
ground,
to teacher and pupil in reaching
purpose
it
will help
for boys
some mother
who sometimes
something to do.
succeeded oftimes
It
much
have become interested

generally
is
is
interested
in
try
furnishing a good healthy pastime sport

the limit of one's patience for the lack of
home
better
than was
work
largely,
anticipated, for
and
whole
it
has
families
OUR
Mother
boy's kite.
much
so
on
disfavor
with
looks
while father
in the
first,
construction
time being spent on a kite;
development of
but before
it
flies,
father gets
and furnishes material for string,

thusiastic, suggests here and there,
ptc.,
with pleasure, and they all go to the tournament to see Jack win
This is one case, there are others.
a first prize.
I
believe there
is
need for such books, and this subject
such a text, therefore, this
is
without
little treatise.
CHARLES M. MILLER,
November
5,
Los Angeles, California.
1912.
CHARLES M. MILLER.
CONTENTS
CHAPTER
PAGE
Introduction
Preface
General Kite Construction
11
Kite Accessories
16
III.
Kinds of Kites
20
IV.
Plain Surface Kites
23
Box-Kites
39
Combined Kites
48
Decoration of Kites
61
Messengers
69
Moving Devices
75
Suspended Figures and Appliances
82
Balloons and Parachutes
92
Reels
97
I.
II.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
XI.
XII.
XIII.
Aeroplane Models
103
XIV.
Gliders
108
Model Aeroplanes
112
XV.
XVI.
XVII.
XVIII.
XIX.
XX.
Propellers, Motors, Gears, and
Winding Devices
121
Tournaments
127
Tournaments, Continued
134
Conclusion
140
Bibliography
142
CHAPTER
I.
GENERAL KITE CONSTRUCTION.

The kite is usually made of ri framework of wood, is lashed
together
with cord, strung with cord according to design, and
finally is covered
with paper; but in each case some other material might be substituted.
The drawings in this book have the framework represented by full
and the string by slant dotted
lines
kept light and strong.

in
number from two
and to a great many
The
Spruce
It
is
of
be
pieces varying
in the plain tailless, to sixteen in a
good box-kite,
in a large tetrahedral kite.
tough woods are better than the hard, heavy woods.

considered the most satisfactory, but yellow pine, basswood,
soft
is
and even white cedar will
redwood shake
is
For a three foot
do.
It
very satisfactory.
uniform thickness thruout,

shake
The framework must
lines.
made
wood, the
usually
is
six inches
kite,
the California
a kind of long shingle of
is
wide and three
feet long.
The
about T
or |" wide, and bends sufficiently
for the bow.
Some box factories will rip out spruce sticks in 25c.
bundles for boys at about one penny each.
Some good sizes are
split into strips
is
TV'x"x3',
i"xi"x4' and f'xf'xS'.
These should
be straight grained
and well seasoned.

Sticks should be uniform in weight and bending qualities.
sticks are to be centered, careful
balancing over a knife-blade the difference
and the heavy end reduced by whittling

center by balancing, but this
is
Where
measurements must be made, then by

weight can be detected
some.
Some try to find
in
off
very inaccurate
string
may
be used
for measuring.
Aluminum
tubing
especially for parts of
planes,
many
but
it
places.
of paper,
is
is
used,
model aero-
not available
but they are more for
curiosity than utility.
frames bamboo
is
For
large
excellent, but requires a different fastening of joints
than sawn out material, Fig.

lines
in
Some make frames
1.
Split
and for light framework of
bamboo
butterflies
11
is
excellent for curved out-
and bird
kites,
and
for Jap-
KITECRAFT AND KITE TOURNAMENTS
12
anesc,
Korean and Chinese
kites.
Wire
can be used for frames of small
kites.
When
Lashing.
t\vo sticks
arc to be
fastened
onally around both sticks in both directions, Fig.
FIG.
together,
First
FIG.
2.
around the other windings. This draws

Fig. 3. Coat over with giue or shellac.
sticks
instead
wind diagwind
then
between
2;
of nailing with a small brad, they should be lashed.
all
3.
the cord up tight,
Large box-kite frames with

sawn out material should have the
let
into
the
horizontal pieces a
little,
Fig.
upright
a brace
posts
is
long
notched at the end to
If
fit
over another piece, Fig. 5, and is

liable to split out, it can be wound
FIG. 4.
just back of the notch with thread,
All windings should be neatly done
Fig. 6, and coated with shellac.
without
criss-cross
windings
as
in
Fig.
7.
Which do you
like
best
Fig. 6 or Fig. 7?
FIG.
FIG.
5.
6.
FIG. 7.
Folding frames can be made for most kites.

Collapsible Frames.
Large tailless kites have either a removable spine or bow, the square
box-kite has braces that spring into shallow notches, and the triangular
box and house kite combination can be rolled by having a removable
cross-stick.
It
is
a great advantage to have folding
kites.
GENERAL KITE CONSTRUCTION

Symmetry
Stringing.
so
is
necessary
in
the
13
making of a good
if two opposite
kite, that the stringing becomes an important factor; for
are
sides
made unequal,
more pressure on one
there will he
side of
center than the other, the kite will be pulling off to one side or darting
small hard twisted cotton
down and perhaps will refuse to fly at all.
cord
good for stringing
is
as
it
does not stretch.
rc
FIG.
FIGS. 9, 10.
8.
On
is
kites where the string passes around the entire frame, Fig. 8, it
best to fasten at the end of one stick only, as at a, then pass in the
notches of the ends of the other sticks at
We
b,
must assume
c, d, and
that the horizontal stick in Fig. 8 has been
tie again at a.
measured accurately for center

part of the framing process.
as that
The
is
^*~~~
can
sticks
be notched with a knife, Fig. 9, or a saw-
cut can be
latter
is
to
is
made
in the end, Fig.
less liable to split
more convenient,
The
10.
out, but the
for every boy
is
first
have a knife or can borrow one.

After the string is secured around the
entire figure, adjustment between points
made.
If a tailless kite
shifted until
the right
likely
FIG. 11.
is
are
being strung up, the two upper portions
then
are
ends
The
are
sides
left
equal.
and
is
14
wound with another
and the lower end
Some may
same way.
The two
cord, Fig. 11, to prevent slipping.
sides are then spaced
think
it
the ^pinc
ol
is
secured
lower
in
the
a waste of time to measure the lower
strings after the upper ones have been adjusted, but very often there
quite a little difference, due to a springing of the spine.

star kite
ing
is
would have
six,
instead of four spaces to even up.
used for inside designs, and some
is
six
pointed
Some
string-
used for strengthening frame.
is
Covering. Probably more tissue paper is used in covering kites

than any other material. There are a number of kinds of tissue papers,
but the cheapest, because it is the cheapest, is used most. These cheap
tissue papers are
The
in color.
French
now found
in all
tissues arc
more durable, and
kite covered with
shades and tints of colors.
this
as a rule,
more
brilliant
paper can be used from time to time
without being disabled.
The
rection,
Chinese tissue paper
and should be used so
is
the strongest of all tissues in one di-
as to
bring the length
way
of the paper
This paper only comes in a cream

color, but is very satisfactory where strength and hand color work are
In Los Angeles we get two sheets for five cents, and the size
desired.
is
22"x23". There are some wrapping papers that are pliable and
in the direction of greatest strain.
strong enough to be used, especially on box-kites, but only a few of these

are of
much
face kites.
a box kite
service on plain sur-
The
is
tight covering on
an advantage. Some
boys use a paper that

known as a butter
is
commonly
and
paper,
others find orange wrapping paper

serviceable.
FIG.
Of
12.
the cloth coverings, cambric
the most popular.
is
The
sizing
keep the covering in shape during construction, it is light

in weight, comes in variety of good colors and is cheap.
When cloth is
used on plain surface kites, care must be observed that the goods are
is
sufficient to
not used on the

of the kite.
bias, as
Silk
is
the unequal stretching
excellent, but
it
would unbalance the

isn't
used
much by
poise
boys.
GENERAL KITE CONSTRUCTION
15
coverings arc turned over the outer strings, and arc pasted
In representative figure kites, the edge of the paper is
or sewn down.
sometimes left free, \\hilc the string is made fast by extra strips of
Most
paper pasted fast over the string and to the back of the cover, Fig. 12,
Some large kites can
thus leaving the edges to flutter in the breeze.
be covered with paper, if a network of string is used at the back to give
support to the covering.
Tailless, and some other kites require loose coverings, this looseness
should be planned for in a systematic manner. If the cover of a 3-foot
kite
is
laid on top, the

placed on a table or the floor with the frame
may be cut one inch or one and one-half inches to the
edge of the cover
Instead of turning in this whole amount, only

turn in one-half inch of the outer edge. This leaves plenty of looseness
outside of the string.
for bagging of cover,
and
is
regular.
CHAPTER
II.
KITE ACCESSORIES
The
bridle
The
Bridle.
(or belly band)
kite
is
is
not supposed
attached.
Nearly
be
to
finished
until
the
kites require a bridle,
all
a very few have the kite line tied directly to some one point of the
framework. The bridle is a very important part of the kite equipment, as the kite is dependent on it for the proper distribution of
pull by the kite line,
The
to the breeze.
it
also gives the inclination of the exposed surface
inclination
is
varied slightly for various purposes,
To make the
such as high flying, strong pulling, steady flying, etc.
kite fly directly over head, the kite line is attached above the normal
I
I
I
FIG.
FIG. 13.
point,
and
to
make
it
fly
FIG. 14.
15.
low, the attachment should be below normal.
If the single line can be attached to the
no bridle
inclination,
is
needed but
it
is
framework
usually
so as to give this
difficult' to
locate the
right point.
Many
kites
need attachment of bridle
in
but
two
places,
while
others require three, some four, and some are benefited by the use of
KITE ACCESSORIES
many
the
strings to the bridle, but the last
framework
of the kite
more than
may
17
be used for strengthening
for general
The
poise.
Chinese
say there should never be more than three strings to the bridle, while
the Japanese use many.
The
kite
tailless
may have
the bridle attached at the bottom and
top of the spine (the vertical stick of the frame) or the bottom and at
bow and spine. In either

when it is drawn over to
the crossing of
so that
enough
case the bridle
will just reach the outer points of the bow, Fig. 13;
same length
and cd the same length
as ab,
of attachment of kite line
is
at
c,
must be long
the side of the kite, the loop
as bd.
ac should be the
The normal
point
the point that just reaches b or e
when drawn to the side. Some bird kites have a similar bridle but
much shorter between attachments. More of the form kites have three
and four strings to the bridle. The three string bridle is usually two
The four string bridle
strings above and a longer one below, Fig. 14.
has two short uppers and two long lowers, Fig. 15. For the poly string
bridle,
see
16.
Fig.
Some have advocated an
writer has never found
FIG.
it
elastic
bridle
but the
of any great advantage.
FIG.
16.
17.
double bridle with a kite line to each, makes a dirigible kite

which may be useful in a number of ways and which can give
possible,
much amusement
line.
in kite antics that
double bridle
driven at will.
left, in circles
is
illustrated
is
in
not possible with a single kite

Such a kite can be
Fig. 17.
The kite becomes a sail and can be pulled

and various contortions, out of the ordinary.
to right
and
Kite Lines. A three or four ply cotton wrapping string is used

more than any other and is very satisfactory for three-foot kites and
smaller.
The
hard twisted cotton seine twine comes from
six to
over
18
hundred
ply,
and
excellent for kite lines.
is
It is
strong and dues not
burn the hands, nor kink as much as hemp twine.
F<>r high flying or racing work, a light strong cord is necessary.

small kite can carry up a great amount of silk or linen thread but one
Shoemakers thread and
should have a reel and gloves to handle it.
Some think that waxing a string

upholstering twine are also used.
makes it stronger, but by actual tests before and after waxing, there
was no appreciable difference in the amount of endurance of strain before
does preserve the string and prevents fraying and
Waxing
breaking.
untwisting.
When
kites are
kites are
tandem, the string need only be as strong

ordinarily used for one of its size, but as other
in
put up
for the first kite as
is
added the
This grading
of
the kite line.
and
cost
weight
can fish without a reel and you can fly
must be
size of the cord
increased.
of the string, greatly reduces the total
You
Reels.
a kite without one, but the reel
and
in
is
a great convenience
The
an absolute necessity at times for both.
brief
flanges on
a large spool with
is
a central
axle fixed
the spool,
to
reel
both ends,
a frame for sup-
porting the axle, a guide for the string to prevent

its running off the reel, and a brake to prevent too
rapid
unwinding when
can be
made without
letting out the string.
crank,
reel
by having the axle

knob handle fastened
supported at one end only, and a

to the outer face of the reel for winding purposes.
For further directions, see chapter on Reels.
Tails.
tail
and other balancers are used
give poise to an otherwise unsteady kite.

is
constructed in such a
surface to the breeze,

FIG. 18.
matter
how
as to present a
will
The
tail is
broad
flat
it
cannot
air.
kites that represent irregular forms, there
balancer.
to
a kite
sway and dive and no
carefully you attach your bridle
be supported in the
For
way
it
When
must
usually resorted to in such cases.
also be a special
The
tail is
more
than a weight.
foxy kite refuses to come to terms by the addition of a
thread and lead or other weight. The weight drops so quickly to its plumb
KITE ACCESSORIES
the
that
line
not come
has
kite
in some other direction.
on weight
The
air.
number
its
to
and makes another pitch
poise,
value of the
pulling
tail
while
capacity
depends not so much
being
usually consisting of a string with a

of pieces of paper folded and tied thereon,
tail,
and with cloth streamers
18,
Fig.
on
as
The
19
considerable pull
exerts
weight,
time to give steadiness to the
at the
for
end for
drawn thru
the
\
V*.
long enough
kite.
kite
must
have poise in the air just as we balance a board on

if the finger is not centrally
the end of a finger
located, the board will fall to the left, or right,
back
or
front
of
the
air
to
left
or
backwards.
two
is
so
not
or
right,
The
with the
centrally
tail
latter troubles.
pitch
and
tail.
The
pressure
will
it
forward
or
glide
tumble
helps most in remedying the
Almost any
be supported in the air by

bridle
the
if
kite,
located
light surface can
proper
Japanese use
attachment
two or more
of
tails
on their square kites consisting usually of long cotton ropes with large tassels on the end. These look
very beautiful trailing out in long graceful parallel
lines.
Another form of
air resistance
found serviceable,
hollow cones or funnel shaped devices of light

cardboard attached by cords to the kite in place of
is
tails,
A
8"
in
Fig: 19.
Chinese boy had a colored paper ball about

diameter attached by a string to one of the
kites last year, Fig. 20.
Another form
sected cardboard discs, Fig. 21.
is
the inter-
Other forms can
be used.
Christmas and other paper rope used for decoration purposes could -be used to advantage for tails of
kites.
They
FIGS.
19,
20,
21.
will catch the breeze and can be festooned into pretty designs
but will need cord supports to give strength.

Don't throw away a kite because it has to have a
sometimes the most beautiful
part.
tail.
The
tail is
CHAPTER III.
KINDS OF KITES.
Kites are so numerous in kinds and design nowadays that, in order
to get at
any kind of intelligent discussion of them, it will be necessary

them into classes and varieties as the scientist does in his
to segregate
There
investigations of nature study.
live boy's heart
so
we
will
try
is
the great big subject of con-
The name
structive sport called kite making.
kite strikes joy to
him good too. But kite making is too

running some cross-roads thru, thus dividing it
and
it
does
any
big,
into
smaller groups.
large
number
of kites can be classed together as having the
same
make-up and we will call the first, Class A, Plain Surface

Kites.
These kites have one general surface without any built out
1.
Geometric and
parts, and can be subdivided into two divisions:
regular forms, 2. Irregular and representative forms.
general
There are two

a.
b.
The two
divisions of the geometric
and regular forms:
Tailless kites.
Kites with
regular in form.
tails,
divisions of irregular forms are
a.
Set pieces of design.
b.
Insect, bird, animal,
and man
This brings the analysis for Class
kites.
down
to variety
which will be
discussed in succeeding chapters.
Class B.
1.
six
subdivisions:
Square.
2.
Rectangular.
3.
Triangular.
4.
Cylindrical.
5.
Hexagonal.
6.
Tetrahedral.
Class C.
surfaces,
has
Box-Kites,
Combined
Kites.
or combinations
of
Box-kites
may have
curved surfaces and
shapes that represent hollow forms of
fish,
additions of plain
plain
ones,
1.
Straight extensions of plain surfaces.
2.
Hollow shapes representing animal and mechanical

20
giving
animals, etc.
forms.
KINDS OF KITES
Class D.
also,
21
These are made up
Kites in Series.
combined
of
kites
but the combinations are so different that they belong in a class by
themselves.
1.
Compound
2.
Kites in tandem.
Connected directly to one line.

Connected by individual lines of some length
one main line.
a.
b.
3.
The
are
kites.
Dragon
Kites.
more numerous
plain kites are the
more
take less
easily constructed,
stretched over
Of
breeze.
it
two or three
ing a
less
to fly
material,
The
in air.
sticks as a
course, there are tricks in
any of them can be made
use
fly
in
construction as
framework with a covering
form a simple plane that
so as to
They
for several reasons.
time,
lighter breeze, and are usually more stable
a rule consists of
to
making
is
exposed to the
the plain kites, but almost
by either warping the surface or attach-
tail.
Box-kites require considerable time and are
more
difficult
in
con-
They are a built up framework with cloth or strong paper

The frames must be kept light and strong, and a process
The covering seldom covers
of trussing is necessary to accomplish this.
the whole framework but usually is made in bands. The space enclosed
by a band is called a cell. Most box-kites consist of a forward and rear
struction.
coverings.
cell,
that
is
a band
is
found
at each
versely to the length of the kite.

kites are of the box-kite type.
end around the framework, trans-
Some
of the most practical
By working
kite,
mean
working
kites that are
used for a purpose other than pleasure.

box-kites have extended wings of plain surfaces to gain more
of these appendages
lifting power, or for poise, and the application
form
this group.
that
kinds
of
serves to explain the combination
Some
In the group "Kites in Series"
we have
kites
of
the same kind
fastened rigidly together making one kite, called a compound kite, also
kites fastened one after the other a few feet apart on one line and all
at one time, and still another set of similar kites in which
started
up
numbr
of kites are put
up on individual
strings,
one at a time, for
22
perhaps 300 feet, and are then attached to the main kite line.
Boys
sometimes succeed in pulling up as high as forty kites on one line by
this method.
Another very interesting and beautiful series is the
Chinese dragon kite type.

In this a number of kites are harnessed
with
about
three
cords
together
running from head to tail.
These various groups

chapters as
we
proceed.
will receive
So
more
explicit directions in separate
our analysis
far in
with kinds of kites as to construction.

chapters on various other features of kite
we have
been dealing
There will be a number of

work and accessories, includ-
The Chinese and Japanese

Messengers, etc.
have
kites
a
been making
people
great many years and have become
Their decorations seem to tend
very skilful workers and decorators.
ing,
Kite Decoration,
more toward
the dipicting of ugliness and fierceness instead of beauty
and color harmony, altho many of the color combinations are very
effective.
The tendency toward fierceness can well be understood when
we
consider that
it
has a part in their religion,
such ugly monsters helped to drive
The
it
being supposed that
the evil spirits.
large Japanese square kite, which
of square,
is rectangular in shape instead

with plenty of the whites of the
Some very fine specimens have been exhibited
usually has a big head
and teeth showing.

our "Kite Tournaments".
eyes
at
away
their kites, use costly

gilt is
They expend quite freely in making up

ornaments and considerable gilt and black. The
usually very good that

the orientals have
While
tion, I believe that the
and
artistic
is
used.
shown us some stunning

future will show some results
spacing that will be
much
superior
to
effects in decora-
of color
theirs.
harmony
We
are
busy as yet trying to master the kite craft from the constructive and
flying side, but we are getting on, even on the decorative side as well.
We
are
now
ready to discuss variety in the next chapter.
CHAPTER
IV.
PLAIN SURFACE KITES.

The tailless continues to be the most popular of all the
how artistic, how representative, how curious, or how
matter
the
new
kites
may
be, the tailless
It flies in a very light breeze,
and
several kinds of tailless, but the
These
winner.
kites are
is
the
is
two
made from
first
and
last
kites.
mechanical
out every season.
so steady in the air.
Eddy Kite seems
stick
No
There
are
to be the
five inches to thirty feet in

height.
-'
Bo,*,
FIGS. 22, 23, 24, 25.
and 22, has two sticks of equal length, the vertical

called the spine, and should be straight, while the bow is placed
about one-fifth the distance down from the top of the spine. This bow
This
kite,
stick
is
stick
is
Figs. 8
bent backward by inserting a brace stick as shown by Fig. 23.
23
24
The
advantage of a removable brace stick will be recognized when n

If the brace
person tries to carry several kites to a field at one time.
stick
is
out,
the kites
lie
flat
and do not injure each other,
that
so
twenty-five or more might be carried by one person, but if the kite is

bowed, there may be great difficulty in carrying two or three. Most
boys
bow about
three inches for a three-foot kite.
See Chapter
for
the stringing of this kite.
FIGS. 26, 27, 28, 29.
The
tailless kites are nearly
projecting out to the front.

service, the covering
inch along each side
is
all
constructed so as to have a keel
In order that the keel
would be allowed
for
may
be of more
Perhaps an
bagging or pocketing. See
not stretched tight, but
is
left loose.
Chapter I on covering. If the covering is drawn

dodge and will probably dive to destruction.
tight, the kite will
Now we can modify this type form of kite. We can use two spines
and two bows, Fig. 24. In this kite the upper bow should be bent more
PLAiN SURFACE KITES
25
than the lower, and the bridle will be of more service
upper bow
two
if
attached to the
midway from spine to end of bow. The

not
be
so
loose
on this kite as on Fig. 22 but should
should
quite
covering
not be tight. Another variation is given in Fig. 25, in which two spines
Sometimes the spines are crossed as shown in
are used and one bow.
at
points about
Fig. 26, the distance being
much
greater at the bottom than at the top
******* *** ****

******* *******
FIGS. 30, 31, 32, 33.
between the ends of the spine
shown
in Fig. 27, in
project
their
which a
from the bottom
sticks.
modification of the last two
built out keel
is
shown.
of each spine with
Two
third stick connecting
meeting place with the center of the bow stick.

one other combination is a form that can be used
Still
is
small braces
as a founda-
It is shown in Fig. 28, and has two

tion for many outline shapes.
is made, a tail or
spines and two bows; but where much modification
other balancers must be used. A kite with a broken bow is like a bird
o
i-L,
PLAIN SURFACE KITES

with a broken wing, hut
service
by the addition
broken
if
of a
in the
27
center
as
cross-stick,
broken part should be well lashed together.
it
can be redeemed for
shown
in
Fig.
29.
The
kite could be
successfully
in this way from the

It is possible to make a
beginning.
of
number
geometric or representative forms as tailless kites, but representative forms as a rule need tails.
planned
The
shield,
Fig.
30,
one of the
is
succeeded very well with a two bowed
tailless
tailless
kites
in
and the writer
the shape of a six
See Fig. 32.
pointed star.
Perhaps the largest group in real variation is that

with tails or other forms of balances are found. And
in
which
kites
and
fore-
first
most, comes our grandfathers' old English bow kite, Fig. 18, having a
bow that curves upward, but not backward, over the end of a
single
spine.
Tassels were added at each
side of the kite at the termination
of each end of the bow, and a long

tail
of rolled papers tied to a string
with a cloth hanging at the end

was attached to the bottom of the
spine.
The
great class of star kites,
with varying numbers of points,

and the geometric, hexagonal, octagonal, and other
this
is
group.
forms belong
to
three string bridle
most satisfactory for most of
these
strings
forms.
of
The
bridle
two
should
upper
be
the
same length but shorter than the

lower string.
The
latter
FIG. 36.
should
be attached at a central point at the bottom.
In case there
is
no
stick to
anchor to at the center of the bottom, four strings may be necessary or

two longer ones may be used at the bottom and one shorter one at the top.
However
top, and
the bridle
is
attached, the shorter strings are always at the
must be centrally located to right and left,

whether at the top or bottom, and the double portions on equal distances
the single string
to each side of center line.
28
The
at
bridle for a single spine and
and bottom of
at top
bottom of
so that
two
when
is
something attached
spine, and
bow and
In either case the bridle should be long enough
spine.
will just reach out
it
end of the bow; and at
the kite line
tailless is
stretched out to the side of the kite while attached at the
points named,
to the
how
spine, or at the intersection of
this point
attached; see Fig. 13. Fig.
33 shows a hexagonal kite. The same

framework could be covered as a star kite,
There may be any number of
Fig. 34.
points to a star kite, but
the
ones.
six-pointed
most boys make

Sometimes the
points are arranged as in Fig. 35, and
again as
in
Fig. 33.
very interesting
37
Fig.
has
tail
Fig.
36 shows a
for smaller star kites.
another
arrangement of
shows a pen38
Fig.
stars for the tail.
tagonal kite and
The
construction.
its
bridle might be attached at one upper
point and the
two lower
39 shows an addition
the shape of a crescent.
star,
in
that
two
across
sticks
the
are
longer,
thus
crescent,
rigidity to the surface.
the crescent
Fig.
points.
to the six-pointed
was made
giving
The
Note
extending
more
outline of
of split
bamboo.
In a similar manner, a broad circle could

be formed about .Fig. 38.
See 38a.
Star and hexagonal kites are not the
only members of the regular shapes with
tails.
The
Japanese square
kite,
Fig.
FIG. 37.
40, which is usually rectangular in shape,

has a vertical spine, two diagonal spines,
and several horizontal

larger the kite, the
ribs that are lighter in
more horizontal
weight than the
ribs will be required.
spines.
The
By making
PLAIN SURFACE KITES
29
It"
FIGS. 38, 38a, 39, 40.
30
nnovable spines the kites can he rolled up and the Japanese have
some very beautiful ones that have hern imported. Some of
exhibited
cost
these
swinging
as
in
high as $30.00 or more.

graceful,
parallel
curves
two long ropelike
he
give
beautiful
effect
to
tails
the
FIG. 40a.
whole
kite.
The
bridle
Regular forms of
or split bamboo.
Fig.
42 needs no
It
is
usually attached at
many
places on this kite.
kites are many.

In Fig. 41 the circle is of reed
would be well to fasten the bridle at four points.
special
explanation
as
the
construction
is
similar
PLAIN SURFACE KITES

to
kites,
The
41.
Fig.
Figs.
43,
44,
balloon
piece of pasteboard
is
kite
45a,
45,
forms
are
more
in
They make
the
ship
drawing.
pretty kites
FIG. 45.
FIG. 44.
irregular
The
modification.
the construction
used for the hull.
FIG. 43.
The
another
is
show
31
representative,
and
to
many,
more interesting, because with patience and ingenuity almost any

form can be made to float in the air.
Soaring birds, Fig. 46, are
attractive and their construction is unique.
Split bamboo is mostly
used
for
the
framework.
The
Chinese
boys
take
small
strips
of
32
the
is
Chinese
very
when
tissue
light
dry.
and
The
lash
in
paper
\\lnle
twisted
if
covering
the
also ot
is
pieces
\vrt,
It
frame together.
and
strong
tight
of
he. -rimes
Chinese
and colored with
tissue
interest-
of about five of these kites
is very
group
A pleasing modification is an ingenious
ing when soaring about on high.
the tail drops and is
tail attachment that is hinged to the body so that
a \\ater color hnish.
when a
raised again by the breeze, giving the appearance of fluttering
at
flown
that were
little distance away.
Fig. 47 is a photograph of three
a
one time and were mistaken by many for real birds, while Fig. 48 is
of
back
In each picture the
tails.
photograph of a pair with fluttering
one bird is shown. In Fig. 47 the birds are flat but in Fig. 48 the bodies
a light
are rounded out, giving a keel to the kite. This is done by making
framework of small split bamboo. Notice the little patches of paper
on the back that hold the

float
and
string,
The
flutter as feathers.
allowing the edge of the covering to

bridle attachment may be two strings,
A set piece is shown

14.
13, and may be three, as in Fig.
This makes
a
balancer.
as
American
an
fluttering
with
in Fig. 49,
flag
on
it to make the bird
is
time
when
kite
put
enough
a very beautiful
One boy cut papers and stuck
stand out clear and real in appearance.
he succeeded well it is not
while
and
for
feathers
on to a background
few
a
as
effective
as
good strokes with a water color
and not
as in Fig.
necessary
brush.
Butterflies offer a great variety in design
and
color, the best results
colors over the general covering.

being obtained by pasting the striking
more permanent kite can be made by using the Chinese tissue with
strong water colors, and

across,
good
made
of
it
more a work
is
bamboo and
kite thirty inches
Chinese paper will last for years
Butterfly kites have been
care.
of art.
made
to
fly
without
if
it
tails
has
but
drawings are shown, Fig. 50 shows the

nearly
double tail of ribbon and button of cardboard at bottom. The body
is
form, Fig. 48, and the edge of the wing
is curved like the bird
but the waves are longer than for feathers. A Chinese boy
all
need one.
Two
scalloped
made
this
and placed a small
head and a
like
pieces of small
American
flag
silk
Chinese
flag
on the other.
on one side of the
The
antennae were
reed with silk balls that are sometimes used
menting draperies and gowns.
in
orna-
PLAIN SURFACE KITES
33
00
Th
34
KITI-CR AFT A> D KITE
TOURNAMENTS
FIGS. 49, 49 a, SO, 51.
PLAIN SURFACE KITES
Animal Forms.
The
35
animals
are not limited to bears, but horses,

elephants,
can be outlined in
etc.,
kite forms.
P'ig.
52 shows a stand-
ing bear with
little
beween ropes
as balancers for the
large bear.
may
The
bears swinging
ropes in the kite
be strips of cambric.
Small
wood should
from
strips
of
one fope
little
bridle
back of the
to the other
bears
medium
cross
which
thick
can
be
are
attached
bear's shoulders to the
the spine stick.
made
cardboard.
The
of
The
from the
bottom of
bridle
is
at-
tached only to the large bear.

horse carrying a knight in
armor, or horses hitched to a char-
FIG. 52.
iot,
would take much planning but
An
are within reach.
elephant with
splendid equipment of royal hang-
would make
ings
pearance.
When
gorgeous ap-
difficult
of this kind are attempted

-
problems
it should
be by kite makers of experience as
much
adjusting will be necessary,
and plans for framework will be

needed that will give rigidity and
lightness.
design
Some
will
parts in a complex
need
with
stiffening
reed bent out and around from the
framework.
outline
stiff
may
Sometimes
small
be effected by means of
paper and again a string
may
be stretched from some distant stick

FIG. 53.
36
framework so as to carry the covering out to certain lines.

some very complicated forms can be worked out.
of the
careful planning
By
In
mounted knight,
Fig. 53, the nose of the horse will be a straight

stick, but the upper line of neck and lower part of head will be bent
the
The
and of good weight.
and foot are reed, while
reed,
raised knee
under
the
from
means
the
side
the
line
neck
on
foreleg
the
changes
breast
the
The
of a string.
by-
back of
ground
is
of
while the extension of the
string,
might
stirrup
Much
of
of
be
of
stiff
paper.
can be done with the brush.
For instance, the dropping down

rump to the tail would be
FlG
of the
curved,
let
give form.
We
54
'
the outline run angular, then with a heavy streak of color,
little silver
paper on the armor will spice
Fie.
The
"
it
up wonderfully.
55.
might consider a mechanical model, an electric coupe, Fig. 54.

may be some\vhat exaggerated and stationary, while the in-
tires
PLAIN SURFACE KITES
FIGS.
56.
57.
58.
37
KITECRAFT AND KITE TOURNAMENTS.
38
side spokes
and hub could be
in the
form of a small windmill so
as to
turn around, giving the effect of running. In such case, the fans should
be so turned as to turn the wheels in the same direction. By the use of
a double bridle
and two
kite lines,
auto to travel across the sky.

similarly
it
might be well to lay

to dry.
In this
The human
it
way
bent into shape by a

are
would be
possible to cause the
made and manipulated.

reed or bamboo are to
When
it
it
Electric cars and locomotives might be
be bent for some very particular form,

out on a board with brads on each side, leaving
a truer
little
form may be secured.
Bamboo
can be
heating over a flame.
kite has all the possibilities of caricature in
some very funny attempts.
"Just Boy," Fig. 55,
is
it,
and there
a good one, and
"Foxy Grandpa" is popular. Fig. 56 is the "Squared Chinaman". The

"Clown and Donkey," Fig. 57, is rather easy, being a combination of
The "Dutch Girl" makes a good kite, also "Me
three tailless kites.
Happy,"
Fig. 58.
In these as in the previous sub-group,
much
of the
dependent on skilful handling of brush, after the kite has been

constructed. The flying depends much on the attachment of bridle and
effect
is
balancers.
CHAPTER
V.
BOX-KITES.
Box-kites were a new invention a very few years ago. People said,
use trying to put a drygoods box up in the air," and yet some-
"No
number of
more
breeze
than
usually require
but are stronger pullers, which means also
thing very similar in shape has been successfully used for a

practical
The
purposes.
the plain
surface
kites,
box-kites
heavier lifters than their lighter breeze cousins.

discussion of box-kites,
it
are used quite generally by all kite enthusiasts.

celled box-kite; a,
is
Before entering the

some terms that
will be well to understand
the length of the kite.
Fig.
of four sticks, one at each corner, and four braces,

of the kite, placed diagonally across the inside of
corner stick to the other. The covering consists of
on the outside of the four corner
kite
and
is
represented by b;
height of the kite in
its
is
consists
two near each end

the kite from one
two bands passing
called a cell of the kite.

cell
a plain two-
one band at each end.
sticks,
The band and space enclosed is

has two cells. The length of the
59
The framework
is
So
this kite
the same as the width of the
the depth of the cell
present position, and
is
is
the same as the
shown by
letter e; the
by letter d; and the distance between cells, c, is called

the vent.
Nearly all box-kites require the vent, and the vent is usually
wider than the breadth of the cell. Usually the two cells, the fore and
breadth of the
aft,
cell
same
are the
flying a box-kite
size,
but not necessarily
with any kind of
tail
No
so.
one would be seen
unless that had a purpose in
The square box-kite, Fig. 60, is square in

very serviceable for flying, and is convenient for carryusually made to fold up, and the bridle is attached to one
carrying out the design.

cross-section,
ing.
It
is
is
corner piece of the frame.
This
quite easy to attach the bridle to
kite flies diagonally in the air.
two corner
sticks of the frame,
It
is
when
it flies horizontally, Fig. 61.

Lining cambric is good for covering and
some bright color should be used; but some prefer a good wrapping
paper.
Chinese tissue
may
be used
if
the kite
is
not too large.
The
corner sticks stand diagonally in the corners of the kite so that the
The drawing
notches of the braces can fit over them, see Fig. 62.
39
40
r -,
El'do
-'Lo
FIG. 59.
FIGS. 60, 61.
FIGS. 62, 63.
FIGS.
64,
65,
66.
BOX KITES
41
represents the end of the kite, with the corner sticks stretched apart.
Fig. 63 represents a part of one of the braces.
String and glue are
used back of the notch to prevent splitting
them up
bow
A
The
The
in the air.
when
little
word about
in place,
and
when
is put on
long so that they
stretches the cover tight.
made
braces are
this
just a
the strain
little
getting the cover on the corner sticks
distance around the kite
may
determined, and a band
is
right width and the right length to reach around
when
be in order.
is
made
the
the braces are
to place.
Stretch the band out like a rubber band, Fig. 64, and
put in two corner sticks at a and b that have previously been glued on
one edge, and allowed to partially dry until it is what is called tacky.
sprung
Now
the band at the other end should also be glued in place
show
progress will
as in Fig. 65.
Now
outer edge of the sticks.
find
Remember the glue

and mark the exact
the sticks glued in place and fold to these
two
in
sticks in a similar
When
Fig. 66.
the glue
braces and for flying.
cross each other.
manner.
The
good
is
The
two
made
shown
ready for the
is
braces might be tied together
where they
V xy x36
/
is
the
in the other
will be as
thoroly dry, the kite
size for the corner sticks
when
only on the
center between
and glue
lines,
progress
is
//
with
bands 10" wide and 64" long, plus 1" additional for the hem. This
will give 16" for each side.
Enough will be needed additional in
width so as
to
allow a \"
hem
Each band then
for each side.
require a strip of cloth or paper 11" wide and
65"
long.
With
will
paper
bands the \" should be folded over and a string should be glued inside
The braces should be "x|"x21f" from the
to strengthen the edge.
bottom of one notch
to the
Rectangular Kite.
Fig. 67.
This
is
bottom of the other,
The
next
is
a splendid kite of
see Fig. 62.
the rectangular kite, as

its
shown
kind and should have
in
specific
center pieces called the spines are f"x :!j" the

corner and cross-pieces f'xf". The bands for cells are 21" wide by 18',
with 1" additional for the seam. The edges should be hemmed as in
measurements.
The two
The framework should be all thoroly wired in every

shown by drawing, Fig. 68. Little wire turnbuckles such
previous kite.
direction as
be used,
by firms carrying model aeroplane supplies might
and the stretch of the wires could be taken up from time to time. A
as are sold
42
well
made
kite will last a
construction
altho
is
possible to
it is
make them
Some good
aeroplane.
long time
"
Out
so.
corner-pieces, 2'6" between
f'xf"
Twelve-foot
corner-pieces, 4'
kite:
fold,
the
"x"
between
cells,
corner pieces, 5' between
f "xg" spines.
2'6" width of
l"xl"
cell,
spines.
cells,
l-]-"xl|" spines.
FIG. 67.
may
square kites side
side by side Fig. 70; these
cell,
12' long, 12' wide, 6' deep, 3'6" width of
kites just described
Two
to
grown
1'9" width of
cells,
9' long, 9' wide, 4' deep,
FIG. 68.
as follows:
made
of the box-kite has
6' long, 6' wide, 3' deep,
f "xf
Nine-foot kite:
The two
This particular
has good care.
sizes for kites are:
Six-foot kite:
cell,
if it
large kites and they are not often
for
be modified in a
number
by side will give Fig. 69,
might be increased
of ways
and three
in both directions until a
BOX KITES
"xl
43
NJ
FIGS. 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74.
TM
44
FIGS.
75,
76,
77,
78,
79.
BOX KITES
kite like Fig. 71 mi^ght he evolved.
hindrance
some
in
Hut there
of these complications.
hetween upper and lower surface, not

there
skin friction, again
is
FIG. 80.
The
cells,
cells.
and back
fore
if
there
FIG. 81.
and back
fore
on the back
45
no great gain and much
there
is
insufficient
of the surface
room
exposed and
not space enough hetween the
all
is
is
If
FIG.
is
82.
FIG. 83.
the front cuts off the air pressure to some extent
So Fig. 72
is
not high enough, while Fig. 73 has the

Fig. 74 is very unstable in the air.
cells too close together.
triangular cross-section has the advantage of a bracing frameis easy in combination.

The bridle is attached to one of the
work and
long sticks and the kite rides on a keel, Fig. 75.
Three braces about
the middle of each cell keep the corner sticks out to place.
These can
be put in at the field, thus allowing the kite to be rolled for transporta-
The
tion.
cells,
this
triangular kite
and again two
sometimes lengthened
so
as
use three
to
kites are placed side by side, Fig. 77,
and
be increased by placing another below both, as in Fig. 78.
In
Fig. 76,
may
is
we
have a large kite to the outside and a smaller

one to the inside which can be lengthened so as to give three cells in
the last combination
length, Fig. 79,
and many other combinations can be made.
Tetrahedral Kite.
other kite.
or full
a
Out
of the triangular has
which can be increased
grown
the celebrated
beyond that of any

an exhaustive description
construction of these wonderful kites as Dr. Bell has written
Bell tetrahedral kites,
number
No
attempt will be
made
in size
to give
of good articles on the subject for the Scientific American and
other magazines.
There have been some wonderful
principle of construction.
kites
made on
In simple kites of this construction
a large tetrahedral frame composed of six sticks, Fig. 80.

the bracing effect, remarkably small material can be used.
four feet to an edge, TV' sticks were ample.
this
we have
Owing
For
to
a kite
All of the drawings given
KITECRAFT AXD KITE TOURXAMEXTS
46
here represent the kite resting on

position
iis
keel,
would topple over unless supported
will
divide this large tetrahedral
and
in
Fig. 82 strings are run
tho
in
kite
horizontally by four sticks.
Some
too
large
keel, also to the
middle of the upper ridge
use sticks in place of the strings, but
the
strings
81,
Fig.
FIG. 85.
middle of the
sticks to the
that
in
Now we
from the ends of the four horizontal
FIG. S+.
stick.
left
some way.
are
as
good
and
in
small
if
the kite
not
is
better.
kites
Fig.
83 shows a four-celled tetrahedral with the coverings on.

Fig. 84
in which each cell of Fig. 83 is again di-
shows a further division

vided
into
four
the air tipped
as
making a
shown in Fig.
cells,
16-celled
85.
kite.
The
Look up some
kite
of
the
rides
in
articles
given in the "Bibliography of Kites" tor further discussions of this type.
The
at
hexagonal kite is also an outgrowth of the triangular. Looking

the end of a hexagonal kite, three brace sticks will be seen, Fig. 86,
which can be made removable, thus allowing the
kite
and
its
covering
BOX KITES
to he rolled.
The
kite will be
more
so the bridle will be attached to
47
stable in the air
two
if
one side
of the long sticks, and
unmanageable,
The
has
is
down,
it
proves
at four points.
circular cross-sectioned or
barrel kite
It
if
is
two
made up
more
cells,
of a curiosity.
and the frame
is
of four circles, either of
split bamboo, reed, or thin tough

wood. The circle should be shaped
before further construction
tempted.
Most
come on
the
at-
is
of the strain will
circles
connecting the four
so
the
circles,
quite light and slender.
ribs,
may
There
be
will
be less danger of twisting out of
shape
if
more than two
The
used.
ribs
ribs
are
should be lashed
to the rings
with thread or twisted
No
braces are necessary in
paper.
the small ones; a long stick slant-
ing thru the entire kite may be

used in the larger ones, see Fig. 87,
with covering.
pentagonal frame could be

constructed with three braces, Fig.
88,
and should be flown
position
FIGS.
86,
87,
88.
shown.
in
the
CHAPTER
COMBINED
VI.
KITES.
COMBINING PLAIN SURFACES AND BOX KITES TOGETHER.

Straight Extension of Surfaces. One of the most efficient and
popular kites in the combined construction group is the two spined tailcalled the house kite,
less,
This
89.
The
remember.
same
simplest plan
size are used; say,
two
the
vertical spines
The two
case IS".
and the triangular box-kite, as shown by Fig.

to make and the proportions are easy to
an easy kite
is
is
shown
f"x^"x4^'.
down
Three
in Fig. 90.
The
horizontal stick
sticks of the
is
lashed to
one-third the distance from the top, in this
spines are also
18" apart, which leaves the extension

Now run a string around
of the horizontal 18" to each side of spines.
The two cells

There need not
be any braces for these cells, but another stick of the same dimensions
as the other three is used to keep the keel shaped portion in place when
The whole framework can be built rigid
pulled out by the breeze.
the outside of the framework, and cover as in Fig. 91.
now
are
two
built over the
spaces between the spines.
using two short braces about

the middle of each cell out to
fourth stick or keel of
the
way, however,
kite; the best

is
make
to
horizontal
the
removable and without
stick
the short braces so that the
may be rolled up.

member there are only
kite
sticks in such a kite
are all the
...
kite
is
same
Refour
and they
This
size.
FIG. 89.
n j the
sometimes called
.
"Coyne Kite," again the "French

strong puller.
The
War
Kite," and
is
a steady flyer and
much
bridle can be adjusted so as to give
clination to the breeze.
For
lazy, easy gliding, the kite
so as to be nearer horizontal.
This
would be adjusted
kite can be modified
48
or little in-
by a lower hori-
COMBINED KITES
xontal two-thirds
down
ot tlir
same length
49
as ihf
upper horizontal, as
Fig. 92, or with the lower horizontal shorter, as in Fig. 93.

tals
may he bowed forward and
this kite
at the tournaments.
another was sixteen feet

it
up
tall
also
Fig.
backward.
94
is
We
about
The
have had
iive
in
horizon-
all sizes
of
inches tall, while
and required quite an army of boys
to pull
in the air.
FIGS. 90, 91, 92, 93.
similar combination can be
made with
out to each
diagonal with straight surfaces
the square box-kite on the

side, as shown in Fig. 95.
50
Besides the four vertical sticks, there arc four honV.ontal pieces of thr
same length and one short brace placed centrally in each cell to keep
the fore and hack sticks apart. The short braces can he notched to slip
This
and on being removed will let the kite down Hat.
need to be more rigid than the one just described.
hexagonal
box-kite could be made with side wings by extending one of the braces
into place
kite will
at
each
end,
more
like
Fig.
and the pentagonal form could be similarly
96,
Fig. 97 has a
modified.
wings.
to build on.
little
different plan
triangular box-kite
Three long
each
sticks are required
side, eight in all,
of extension
that looks
used as the main structure
is
with four short braces on
with eight wing
four
sticks,
long and four shorter, that are attached to an inner

long stick of the box-like portion and extend across
to the short brace
'of
When
the opposite side.
a pair
of the extension sticks are fastened to place, they are
The
lashed together at their crossing point.
slant-
ing extensions are strongly built and add poise to

the kite.
The poise of a rectangular kite may be increased

by the addition of slant extensions. The extension
pieces start from the lower corner pieces, pass under
the upper corner pieces, lashing fast at both places,
Fig. 98.
If a little variety in outline
bamboo or
reed could be used to
are desired
In
skill
is
making hollow form
objects both patience and
form that
is
interesting but
not representative of any real object
FIG. 94.
flying
Another
bird
is
is
shown
in Fig. 101.
about the shape of a
The
arrow
make
The
material may
is
show n
kite, Fig. 100.
a good
in
The
problem for
The framework and
cross-section of the
tailless kite.
construction that very light
the
kite should
some ingenious chap.

ing
as
even string connections can be made.
are necessary.
Fig. 99.
desired, split
make such forms
string-
body of the bird
is
plan gives such good bracing

be used.
Four feet would be
COMBINED KITES
a good length for
in
51
kite.
The soaring bird, Fig. "102, is quite similar
construction to the proceeding kite.
The body is never square in
cross-section.
this
bow
little
given to the
is
ends of the wings.
tip
The
back line of the wing changes by

means of an extra cord.
This
kite
is
not as stable as
"The
flying
Fig.
103,
Bird."
The
"flying
fish,"
needs vents, as the whole body is

a box-kite.
Two vie\vs of the
framework
are
given;
center
FIG. 95.
spine runs the entire length of the
The mouth
is
left
open, so string
is
fish
with two curves at the mouth.
used for the outline.
The
original
was very mechanically made. It was beyond amateur work and

showed that some skilled workman had assisted. Much can be done with
the brush to make this a very interesting kite. Scales can be painted and
kite
the fins and
tail
lined up.
Wherever
vents are placed, there should be
a string for the edge of the paper to turn over, or
The "Clown and Donkey,"

tailless kites,
and
is
what
is
Fig.
known
another example of compounding.
57,
is
it
will tear out.
the combination
of three
as a
compound
Fig.
105 shows a star kite com-
kite.
Fig.
104
is
pounded together.
Kites in Series.
and
if
it
is
boy
may put up
a kite about five
hundred
feet,
a good flyer, tie the kite line fast and put up another on
If the second is also a steady

perhaps three hundred feet of string.
he
line
can tie the end of that kite
to the first and let out perflyer
haps three hundred feet more of the
Another
kite
is
added
in
the same
first
manner
line,
as
and again
tie
it
fast.
the second and so on.
The
best flyers of the series should be placed as leaders.

Boys have
put up as high as forty kites in such a series, and no one has any
idea of the beauty of such a series, when looking up from the standpoint of the flyer, until he has actually seen such a combination.
Some
prefer
to
take
a color
scheme and
use
others prefer a great variety of colors, and it

is the most pleasing.
Tailless kites are used
it
is
for
all
hard to
the
tell
kites,
which
more than any other
52
FIGS. 96, 97, 98, 99.
COMBINED KITES
for
such purposes.
Fig.
53
106 shows the arrangement.
of the best schemes for high flying.

The
out to the limit of its lifting power else
This
is
one
should not be put

the rest of the string
first kite
when
FIG. 100.
FIG. 101.
is
lifted
reserve
it
will
when
not mount up higher.
the second kite
is
It
attached.
should have considerable
For high
flying,
the kites
should be placed farther apart, and the first part of the line should
be light and strong and the thickness increased as needed for strength
of the combined kites.
way.
Kites can be put up to a great height in this
This way of combining
kites
is
called
"Kites
in
Tandem."
54
FIG. 103.
COMBINED KITES
Another way of
rectly
the
to
flying
kites
in
55
tandem
is
fasten
This method however requires a helper
first.
all
they are placed
for each
kites
di-
kite
and
'--.
FIG. 104.
naments,
to
the one kite line, the line

passing thru each kite after the
FIG. 105.
closer
At one
together.
of
two boys had a beautiful team
Los Angeles Tourand white kites
the
of
green
arranged in the second series of tandem. The kites were of the triangular box and house kite order, Fig. 89, were six feet and nine
feet tall, and were nine in number.
There was insufficient breeze to
them
fly
with the
well,
kite
The
man.
but
it
was
great sport for thirty or forty boys to run
They were
line.
heaviest
pull
that
strong
was
to
enough
registered
was
lift
up a large
little
over two
hundred pounds, but in a good breeze they would have pulled over
four hundred.
I would like to show
you a picture of them, but I
y
failed to get one.
In the second
series
of
the same line directly, there

in
the third series
together, so that
if
we have
one
tips
tandems, while
is
all
kites
are
attached
an individual bridle for each
a sort of harness that
forward,
all
tip
combines
kite,
all
to
but
kites
forward, and vice versa.
be seen that in Figs. 107 and 108 where a number of tailless

kites are arranged in a regular series, that there is a complete harIt will
ness
running from the larger
kite
as a head,
to
the banner floating
56
FIG. 106.
SVi
FIG. 107.
COMBINED KITES
Four cords are attached, one
out at the rear.
and one
at the bottom,
57
are the same, so
The
at each side.
when
the
head
tips
at
the
top,
another
distances between all points
forward, the second kite has a
similar inclination to the breeze, and so on thruout the
whole
series.
FIG. 108.
The
to
bridle
give
attached at the four points at the head, so attached as
is
a good
flying
Dragon Kite" and
The
tailless
dragon
inclination.
flies
This
series
is
called
a "Tailless
well and makes a fine appearance in the
can
be
air.
made more ornamental and seem more
FIG. 109.
connected, by extending the spine above the kite as in the head, a string
with a feather edge of tissue paper being festooned from the top of one
kite in the series to the next.
of tissue paper
would help
At
in the
the bottom of each kite
same manner,
some streamers
Fig. 109.
The
regular
was
COMBINED KITES
Chinese centipede
harnessed the
The
kite,
tailless
110,
Fig.
is
59
nor so ilitrmilt M>\V that \vc have
dragon.
Chinese say there should never he more than three

strings to
two strings to the head of the dra-
bridle or harness; this bridle has
and three strings
gon,
three
running
strings
the
to
from
harness consists of the
The
end of the kite to the other.

Chinese dragon kite usually,
The
harness.
one
if
not
always, has circular disks for the
body of the monster.

Fig. 1 1 1
shows a beautiful kite hung on the
wall for decorative purposes and
shows the design on the individual
sections, while Fig. 112 shows the
same
kite held
The
lighter portion
by boys on the lawn.

on the disk is
green with gilt scales, while the

darker portion is scarlet. The head
is
FIG. 113.
with red mouth, white

mirrors thereon to flash the suneyes that revolve with little
The framework for the head is shown in Fig. 113. While the
all colors,
teeth,
light.
framework
for each circular disk, Fig. 114,
is
just a band of bamboo,
with a light strip of bamboo to which the peacock feathers are attached
as balancers, the disks are covered
with Chinese paper and decorated.

disks are 10" and the balanc-
The
er
sticks
30".
The
feathers are
lashed to the balancer sticks.

disks are
FIG. 114.
paper.
This
kite
flies
of
The
last disk
well and sways about like an immense brightly
The dragon kite, Fig.

the air.
The colors were
tufts
apart.
The
has streamers of ribbon or tissue
colored caterpillar up in the
balancers,
12"
tissue
air.
was very beautiful and flew high in

Instead of feathers for
pink and white.
A
were
used.
paper
special balancer was
115,
60
used for the whole kite
bamboo was used
for
in
ihc form ot
the skeleton,
a hollow hall.
and
this
Small reed or
was covered with
tissue
hanging below the kites head in the picture. The various

sections are covered with different colored papers.
The heads differ,
paper.
See
it
but otherwise the kites are quite similar
FIG.
us.
in
construction.
CHAPTER VII.
DECORATION OF
Kites
KITES.
be decorated in three general ways.

Piece work in coverand brush work. The decoration of
may
ing;
overlaying, called aplaca;
kites
presents
some unique problems.
the decorations are to be seen force
The great distances at which

study of the carrying qualities of
colors.
The
star kite
is
probably the best for decoration, as the spacing

than some of the other forms.
In the kite
falls in easier relationships
shown
in
effect,
and
116 the covering
Fig.
is
showed up splendidly
it
applied so as to give a decorative

in
the
air.
The
colors
did not
stand out as well as might be expected, however, and while high in

When brought nearer
the air it was nearly overlooked by the judges.
the
received
it
first
pri/e.
Another way of combining colors
is
to
half one color and the
make one
other half another, giving a light
and shade
effect to each point, Fig.
117.
Fig.
37 shows a pleasing
rangement of spaces.
The
ar-
kite
is
first covered with the body color,

then the bandings are put on, and
lastly the spots.
banding around
the outside of the stars in the tail

is
and
effective
partout
some
excellent for
Passe-
banding
in
places.
The
38,
is
in keeping.
is
five-pointed star kite, Fig.
neat
framework
arid
is
artistic.
given
to
The
the
FIG. 116.
left.
The Six-pointed Star, Fig. 118, has interesting spaces and paths.
The wide paths running to the center are divided by passe-partout.
The discs at the points are in keeping with the large one at the center.
61
62
The main
cover was
two bowed
119
is
tailless
in
kite
two tones
gives good
designed as a banner
and Fig.
121
kite,
some
one spine and
opportunity for decoration.

Fig.
120 a conventionalized bull pup,
stick
kite
tailless
number
of the others, yet a
decorated kites of this form, have been exhibited.
body and black paths with
The
Fig.
The two
flower form.
easy to space well as
of grey green.
not as
122 has a blue
Fig.
The
is
of excellently
was put on
Fig. 123 is very similar in design but with light paths beby hand.
tween dark.
Fig. 124 has a red, white and blue combination with
over the black.
gilt
FIG. 119.
FIG. 117.
black paths and gilt stripes on the color spaces.
would be curved
ating lines
The
gilt
Japanese square
In Fig. 125 the radi-
in the air.
kite,
Fig.
126,
is
like a canvas,
ready for a
grotesque figure, a beautiful landscape, or a conventional design, and

many of these have been very artistically decorated.
For box-kites with bands as a part of their construction, the bandSee Figs.
ing designs seem more consistent, and so are used more.
127-133.
Fish,
bird,
forms of representative
is
a beautiful
building in
Fig.
135,
is
brown
the center
all
butterfly,
boy,
man, and clown kites and all

brush work. Fig. 134
kites require considerable
kite
all
decorated with the brush.
was painted with water
hand work.
Fig.
136
is
colors.
The school
The fish kite,
the head for a dragon kite
DECORATION OF KITES
63
and should have considerable
fierceness.
Fig. 137 has the decorative
feature in carefully planned
which
lettering
possesses a good space filling
quality.
Some very satisfactory results are obtained

by using good colors, say
blue and black, relieved with gilt.
Red and white makes a pleasing
combination, also red and black.
circle divided into three
parts
FIG. 122.
FIG. 118.
presents a little problem in color
primary colors:
scheme.
orange.
strong,
red, yellow,
and
harmony
blue.
analysis.
We
may
There
are threr
use blue in a color
Combining the other two colors, red and yellow, we get

Orange is called the complement of blue, but orange is too
and a better color harmony is formed by the addition of some
of the third color, the blue to the orange, which will give a brown.
Now
brown and blue make a better color harmony than orange and
So it runs, two primary colors give a secondary, but the colors
are more pleasing when subdued with the third color or by the addition
of grey or white.
Red and olive will need dividing paths of some
blue.
64
FIGS. 123, 124, 125, 126.
DECORATION OF KITES
65
6o
CM
O
(Z
DECORATION OF KITES
strong color, black or white.
or
black
orange
is
When
When
gilt
some very dark color or
it
is
67
used
loses
its
too strong for combination with blue,
yellow
used with the purples
is
it
in
must be edged with
effectiveness.
it
is
FIG.
landscape
While
good with black.

should be a modest vellow.
FIG. 134.
Just as
it
;2J
where the highlights are warm
colors,
we
seek a cool color for shadows, and vice versa, so with color combination
we
strike across the color circle
balance.
Some
quite a little
distance.
and choose a
warm and
cool color for
analogous hues are very pleasing, but unless

variation of color is used, the design soon loses out in the
of
the
Browns, greens,
vidual color schemes,
reds, blues, etc.,
but the throwing
in
may
of
be used in their indi-
some opposite color has
dark brown, medium brown, a

dull 5 elloiv, and a light but not brilliant yellow, give a good combination.
Some color schemes that are very beautiful for rugs and ina
spicing up effect that
is
helpful.
Some
terior decoration do not carry far enough to be used on a kite.
very brilliant colors that might shock us close by, are charming when
far
up
in the uir.
K1TKCRAFT AND KITE TOURNAMENTS
68
But
that
this
is
we must
gummed
not a treatise on color work, and the subject

leave
it
here.
Sometimes striped
papers similar to passe-partout.
are such as are used on
FIG.
gowns and
The
effects are
little
draperies.
is
so great,
made with
mirrors mentioned
They
are set in
little
FIG. 137.
136.
rims of light brass and with a good allowance of paste may be stuck
sufficiently well to any portion of the kite to hold during a tournament. The mirrors might be found at Chinese stores.
Whirling devices, to
be treated in a following chapter,
mentation.
tic
may
also be used for orna-
Tassels, streamers, and banners all serve a purpose of artis-
makeup when properly
used.
CHAPTER
VIII.
MESSENGERS.
All are more or
it
that
is
catches
the
it
less familiar with the piece of paper with a hole in

over
the string of a kite high in the air.
The wind
slipped
and whirls it along, until it finally reaches its destination,
Sometimes
kite.
urgent
demands
business
several
communica-
tions to the kite, so several pieces of paper are seen whirling at various
distances from the boy,
making
their
way,
taking, falling behind and so on until they
now
slowly,
fulfill their
now
faster, over-
mission.
Such
is
the usual kite messenger.
clever
messenger was
little
described
by
Nungent
in
This has been modified and used
Nicholas , for October, 1900.
St.
at a
number of kite tournaments. It is in the form of a little yacht, and

has a beam on which is attached two pulleys under which the kite
line runs, a mast that carries the sail and that also extends downward
The
thru the hull to carry a weight that holds the yacht upright.
mast slants backward a little so as to brace against the pull of the
sail.
The
sail is
held up by a string that is attached to an easy trip,

sail drops and the yacht returns down the kite
and when released the
line to the operator by gravity.

Fig. 138
shows a complete model with sail up as
it
Fig. 139
appears on the up trip.
shows a complete model with sail up as
made
of a light wood,
tions
are
the mast
cut
b,
"x"x!5",
por-
reduce weight;
away
in diameter
is round, \"
to
at bottom, tapering to a point at the top,

is
29|"
above;
long,
of the
c
9" below
the mast
is
and, d
beam;
being 16" and d
c
lashed
the
above
beam and 20"
lashed
are
14"
the
to
the side
yard
long
F IG
133.
arms
and both about
and
"
hung by
to
thru;
T
thread 15"
beam,
run from each end of both yard arms to
The
the top of the metal loop supporting the back pulley wheel.
c
is
higher up.
thread
is
69
is
70
threads are for the purpose of preventing twisting of the

sail
is
Some
of
use
some
silk,
light
soft material
others soft cotton, and
'P.
tissue
sons.
paper
The
that
sail
is
some paper.
way
sail.
The
the breeze.
used a Chinese
FIG. 139.
and found
strong
in
very pliable
it lasted several seait very satisfactory

of the paper should be put on up and down.
;
I.
FIG.
FIG. 140.
The
sail
is
pasted
or sewed
piece of linen thread that
is
to
FIG. 142.
141.
the yard
arms.
The
sail
line
is
fastened to the middle of the upper yard
arm, passing thru a loop made of small wire,
u,
which
is
lashed to
MESSENGERS
the mast, see Fig.
140.
The
71
line then passes to the eye of the
forming the trip on the side of the beam, see Fig.
141.
is
wire
a small
in the side of the beam a; m is a long slim wire nail with an

at the top and two bends at right angles about half way
bent
eye
down.
piece of small spring brass wire will do as well as the
small round wooden stick, e, not larger than \" at the
slim nail.
nail
and about 14" long lies loosely in the screw-eyes, r and

under the beam. The end of the hook that tht sail line is fastened
largest end
passes
down
FIG. 143.
FIG. 145.
FIG. 144.
thru a small hole in the end of the small stick
weight, p,
e.
the lower end of the mast to prevent over-
is secured
turning of the yacht, and a piece of light cardboard
to
s,
to
is
used for the
hull.
on a lathe or small metal ones,

pulley wheels can be turned
of tin make good frames for
used.
be
can
aluminum
Strips
especially
The
If wooden
the wheels, and are attached to both sides of the beams.
wheels are used, care should be taken to see that the holes are in the
center.
Wire
nails
make good
axles.
The
kite line
is
liable to
jump
72
out the grooves of the wheels, so small screw-eyes placed in the beam
just in front and behind each wheel will keep the kite line in place.
It may be an advantage to press the eye together some so as to make
an elongated hole, Fig. 142. Some care will be necessary to see that
the screw-eyes are screwed in just the right distance so as to prevent
the string from resting on the screweyes instead of the grooved wheels.
The
The
Release.
sail
is
tripped by the stick,
feet
obstruction
from the
from the
kite
is
part of the trip
from the
As a
hold the
see
kite,
that
is
being pushed
FIG. 147.
FIG. 146.
against an
e,
of
cardboard
Fig.
when
143.
fastened
The
perhaps three hundred
reason
for
placing
it
away
the weight comes on the kite line, the last
very steep; by placing the obstruction some distance

is largely overcome.
kite this difficulty

final
sail in
easy tripping
warning, the sail line should just be tight enough to

place while going up and not tight enough to prevent
when
touches the obstruction disk.
Some put on
elastic
MESSENGERS
73
bands to pull the sail down

quickly when it is tripped.
The nearer
the sail can float out
straight behind on the return trip, the less resistance there will be to the breeze.
Some even
go
ittle
up device for the

the beam and to the little rod
to
down
rolling
sail.
so
far as to have
thread should be attached
to prevent its
on the
falling out
trip.
The
Chinese and Japanese sometimes have little

messengers that
when a punk burns down so as to burn off a
supporting
are released
thread.
This might be applied
vice but
which
car, Fig.
144.
to parachutes too.
Another good denot self-propelling on the
upward trip is the trolley
The car is pulled up the kite line to a
is
trip,
when
it
is
and returns by gravity.

The pulley block is tied into the
kite line, Fig. 145.
The line below the block passes thru the car under
a little roller on the inside of the car at
each end.
The
released
car can be
of any light material, but need not be as
light as self propelled
devices, the weight being an advantage on the
downward run. The
line that pulls the car
up passes around the grooved pulley, thru the
guides in the pulley block and one end
goes to the car while the other
goes to the operator.
release is necessary, and
perhaps a little sharp
blade like a safety razor blade will be as
effective as any,
146.
made up
Fig.
In Fig. 147 another trip is shown in which a

wire is bent, as at a.
This wire passes up thru the upper
portion of the roof at b, and passes
thru screw-eyes c and d\ d is bent forward.
The lower
of
the wire as represented
is
much
portion
longer than the upper, and when
touches the pulley block is pushed back, and the shorter

portion
back of screw-eye d, which releases the small
to
is
the kite line.
last
is
not a
difficult
attachment and seems a
little
scientifically mechanical.
There
kite
This
it
pushed
which the pulling

ring, e,
attached, and also sets free the car to run down
line to the operator
more
is
is
are other
necessary,
as
ways of
in
effecting the release.

good pulling
the excitement of pulling up the
car, more
strain is put on the kite than one would realize.

If a race is on,
a fishing reel would be an
This last messenger is not
advantage.
limited to the street car, but the form
might be a locomotive and
train, an automobile or an air ship.
The latter might have adjustable
74
wings so as to be open to the breeze on the up trip and so be self

propelling as in the yacht, and by releasing that which holds the wings
open, they will close up, and the messenger
down
string.
In the messenger races,
trip.
At
a tournament
it
is
it
is
would be ready
necessary
to
for the
measure the
necessary to do this beforehand.
It
not necessary, but more interesting, to have all the contestants operIn case all cannot operate together, each
ating at the same time.
is
Some very comical devices might be devised as messenmuch for speed as for amusement. Certain motions might
developed that would add much to the entertainment of all.
can be timed.
gers, not so
be
CHAPTER
MOVING
Most
of
the
sight.
moving
The
of windmills.
DEVICES.
devices on kites are operated best by
windmill can be placed back of the
kite
means
out of
Various movements can be devised such
of eyes and
mouth and moving
dangle without any device.
to
IX.
of ears.
The
as opening and shutting

Feet and hands can be made
windmill can also be used for
decorative purposes.
Windmills.
turning from
back.
The
set in little
ing, or stiff
There
are
left to right
two general kinds of windmills. Those

vice versa, and those turning fore and
and
named type is used for eyes that turn. The eyes are
rims of some stiff material, a thin piece of bamboo, shavcardboard.
Holes are cut in the covering of the kite and
last
these rims are pasted in so as to stand edgewise.
These rims prevent
The eye
any obstruction to the revolving eyes.
may be set in place by means of a wire running thru each side of the
rim and thru the eye. The eye has a smaller rim on which two half
the interference of
A little paper wound into

paper are pasted, see Fig. 148.
would be made by the Chinese boys, but a glass bead will
answer to keep the eye away from the rim of the opening. The two
circles of
little ball
semicircles of paper are on the
a
is
two halves of the
eye.
In Fig. 148,
on the upper half of the front side while the other semicircle, b,
on the lower half of the back. Sometimes little mirrors are pasted
is
to the eyes, as at
certainly do,
use
if
considerable
m,
to reflect the light as they spin around,
nicely set in their places.
black on
which they
Some
"*^
one half and white
on the other, giving a blinking effect. This same

kind of revolving disk is sometimes used on
wires or cord to the outside of the
kite, see Fig.
r IG.
14o.
134.
The revolving
is
is
more
device, while not as familiar as our little windmills,

it is not impossible and in fact
easily secured in position but
The windmills
not a very difficult task to fasten the windmills.
made of stiff paper, any stiff cover paper will do; they spin
can be
7S
76
They are usually made of a square piece

cut on the diagonal nearly to the center, Fig. 149;
well and arc very light.

of paper which
is
one of the points of each section is then brought a little past the cenThese little whirligigs can be
ter and a pin pushed thru, Fig. 150.
attached with the pin to the framework of the kite at various places.
FIG. 150.
FIG. 149.
Larger mills can be made of

of wire and
pasted
The
to
to secure
the wheel
stiffer
paper, as bristol board, but the
more anchorage.
larger sizes will need
it,
The wheel
will need an axle
perhaps several, will need to be

the wire to prevent its flopping over.
a paper,
and on
wheels are made from a
cir-
cular piece and are slitted from the
circumference to near to the center
and the sections are curved by
drawing the paper over a pencil or

similar object until the right cur-
vature
is
obtained, Fig. 151.
All
the sections of a wheel are curved
same way but where there are

more than one, part should turn
the
to the right
left.
the
and the others
The framework
axle should
I
I
to the
supporting
reach across
'Support
ppo
the
opening and there should be a strip

on each side as shown in Fig. 152.
pj G
151,
p IG
152.
MOVING DEVICES
remain curved, a wire can be run around the outer
If the fans will not
edge,
77
thus keeping the fans
place and at the proper angle.
in
windmills are made with wooden axles that have
little
Other
diagonal cuts to
receive pieces of thin stiff cardboard as fans.
These can usually be

purchased, but they can also be made; Fig. 153, has one fan removed.
Make a small block and with small saw, make little cuts on the diagonal
and set the fans in with glue. Some make little windmills of aluminum,
which are similar
made
to the ones
Windmills can
many ways
may represent wheels on an
automobile kite, Fig. 154, in which the tires are large and the windmill
serves as the center of the wheel.
When turning around it cannot
be seen that the tire is not turning.
Another wheel is shown at a
in which small slanting fans are attached.
be applied in
The most
is
to keep
it
making the auto
difficult part in
light
and
of light cardboard.
for example, they
in poise.
seen that the automobile
is
kite
It will readily
be
triangular box-kite.
The hood
of the engine should be open at both ends,

with string across to represent screen. The hood
instead of being a dead weight will have considerable
A framework
lifting power, being part of a barrel kite.
is
shown
in Fig.
The
top of the auto might be black or tan, the body red, black,
grey, green or brown, the tires light tan, and the moving part of the
155.
wheels light yellow.
The
steamboat
kite,
moving wheel but

In
of wheel is better.
the breeze,
so
very feasible
this
the uneven
another application of
simpler and the attachment
156 and 157,

is
is
model a part of the wheel

pressure causes
to
it
is
shielded
This
revolve.
from
"is
Fig. 158 shows a kite with a

understand this device, we should
and interesting problem.
wagging head above

be able to plan
the kite.
Figs.
this construction
the
Two
it.
many
When we
others.
cross-sticks
vertical piece to the
two
The windmill
are used so
it
for support of the
is
is
for a small crank pin,
;',
is
kite Fig.
open part of
quite easy to
aluminum wheel.
that a cord belt runs in,
hub has a groove in it

grooved wheel to the back of the
set in the
and from that
159.
attach a
little
to another
lath nail cut off
located near the outer edge of this grooved
78
FIGS.
154,
155.
MOVING DEVICES
79
~
*
*
|
"
'
FIGS.
/TrTTrr7TiinT7Tml|liiiiiii)r'|niiliTT|
156,
FIG. 158.
157.
80
vertical lever, h, with axis at i, ha's an elongated hole at

wheel.
the lower end that works over the crank-pin and as k revolves, the
lever operates from side to side.

the crank-pin to reach
its
The
hole must be long enough for
highest and lowest point easily.
gated hole can be effected by extending a wire loop
The
elon-
down from
the
end of the vertical lever to work on the crank-pin. The wire should
be lashed with linen thread to the vertical lever and coated over with
glue.
etc.
An
object can be used on the upper end, such as a head, a flag,
In the same manner, hands and feet
may be extended and
with-
drawn, a turtle might be made to draw in head and feet and many
other interesting operations, but in all of these the machinery must
work easily, must not lop over against anything else and above all
we must remember
not to load down our kite with weight or overwith undue leverage at any part of the kite.
Another way of attaching to windmill is to make the wire axle
balance
it
long enough to pass thru and at the back bend into a crank, Fig. 160.
HI
FIG. 159.
MOVING DEVICES
81
hold the upper part of the vertical lever in place, and in case of the
head bobbing up and down, the lever is not attached at i, Fig. 159,
but the loop, Fig. 161, must not be omitted.
Other Devices.
rating
moving
opportunity to
But windmills are not the only means of opeAn extra line to the ground will give
the kite flyer to open and shut eyes and mouth and
parts of a kite.
move ears at will. Ears could be made to grow a foot and then be
drawn back by light elastic bands. The mouth might open and a
red tongue mn out, or a pocket in the mouth might be turned inside
out, thus releasing a
shower of
bits of paper, white, colored, gilt,
and
Let the imagination play for a time, then set the inventive
machinery of the brain to work and "watch us grow."
silver.
CHAPTER X
SUSPENDED FIGURES AND APPLIANCES.
These devices are usually suspended from the
It is neces-
kite line.
sary to have enough suspension cords attached to prevent twisting up

line.
Most of the devices will float out and have some
power of their own, but some will require a kite that can sustain some weight, in some cases a pound or more.
Flags and Banners. One of the prettiest attachments is the
with the main

lifting
American
flag.
in two ways:
first by means
some weight, Fig. 162, and second by using the
This can be attached
of a vertical stick of
horizontal stick, as in Fig. 163.

folded (do not
wind on the
stick)
knots that are easily untied, and

is
string
pulled and the
flag
pleasing trick
and covered,
when
released.
the flag
The
is
to
have the
tied loosely
is
flag
with bow-
well up, the tripping
string of
the
bow-knot
u*>y\
'
--
b.
FIG. 162.
FIG. 163.
passes
down
the kite line thru
little
loops of wire attached to the
main
If
prevent the tripping string from getting twisted therein.
two are operating, one can stand at a little distance so as not to get
the two strings twisted, and thus avoid the wire loops.
line
to
82
SUSPENDED FIGURES AND APPLIANCES
FIGS. 164, 165, 166, 167.
83
84
Banners are used sometimes for schools, sometimes for advertising

and sometimes for just no particular purpose but the pleasure of doing
it.
few banners are shown:
Fig.
164 represents the Grand Ave-
nue School, Fig. 165 the Hobart Boulevard School, Fig. 166, Vermont
I*,'
FIG. 168.
Avenue, and Fig. 167, the Tenth Street School.
Fig. 168 shows
how
the banners are attached.
Wireless Telegraphy.
most boys.
Some
The
wireless has a great attraction
attach antennae to the kite, others drop a
for
number

of wires
lar
to
from the
kite line, as in Fig. 169.
a banner, except that
it
requires only
stick
is
85
suspended simi-
two suspension cords;
another stick hangs by the wires about ten feet below, and below this
the wires come together and a wire follows the kite line to the receiver
and
Caution
to the ground.
is
here given against the use of a wire
One
boy tried this and when the kite lowered in a lull of

the breeze the wire crossed the trolley line and in the mix-up the boy
kite line.
becam;e entangled in the line by attempting to get his kite up again,

and received quite a shock; but
there
was no
serious results.
His
instrument and attachments were
working splendidly.
The winding
of the coil
good problem
for
is
a very
any boy.
Some
boys are
interested in photography,
and the
Photography.
kite
gives
opportunity
taking
The kodak must
bird's-eye views.
rest
for
on a framework and the
trip-
ping line be so attached as not to

cause the instrument to swing when
the shutter
is
The
snapped.
trip-
ping can be accommodated by

means of the rear suspension cord,
Fig. 170.
The
shutter should trip
very easily so as to cause as

.,
swinging
as possible.
A
An
little
s^
'
,f
,'
,'
FIG. 169.
extension
of the lever might be an advantage.
The two
sticks of the
framework
should be halved together so as to bring the upper surfaces
level.
screw-eye placed in the cross-stick directly below the tripping lever holds
the tripping string so that it draws on the camera in line with its own
seating on the framework, and causes the minimum amount of swaying.
Figs. 171 and 172 were taken on a kite line that was sent up from the
Y.
M.
C. A. building.
The
speck of white
shown on
the roof near the
86
ventilator is the operator.

Figs. 173 and 174 were taken by a twelve
year old boy and while not as high as the first is a very good start.
Signaling. Signaling can be done by means of a red and white
Hag, and the code used by the wig wag system, or one similar can be used.
u'
K'/-'
,'
f
/
jf
,fC"
'''
87
laxation of the hands of the
white
would
The signals can be red and

operator.
or a device like Fig. 176, in which a full surface of color
Sometimes a flag flying directly toward
always be in view.
flags,
FIG. 171.
or
is
away from you is not a very large

made of two good sized cardboard
Fig.
object to see.
172.
This
disks, each cut half
The
177, and set at right angles to each other.
FIG.
is
FIG.
173.
last
way
device
thru,
red and white
FIG. 174.
placed there to help in location of the other signals, as to up and

read, red and light, that is r is red or right, while / is left or
would
light.
So the same code operates for both.
The
center black square
down and
right and left.
The
code given
is
one that
we have
used
many have mastered it as yet. It can be used for

red and white or light, would read r and / too.
as
night signalling,
The code reads L R R L.
will illustrate with the letter b.
somewhat, but not
We
At night
On
this
would be
the kite signal
flashed
light, then
we would run up
red, red again, then light.
the light signal, then the red,
FIGS. 176, 177.
FIG. 175.
The wig
Just so with the wigwag.
would be waved to left then two to the right then one to
and back again to center. If we were spelling out BOY,
red again, and then the light.
wag
flag
the left
little
pause would be
made
after
had been signalled, then
left,
would be signalled, and after a slight pause again,

A
the three reds or three waves of the wig wag flag to the right.
little longer pause between words and then the next word would follow.
right, or light, red
89
90
,'C
THE
FIGS.
178,
179. 180.
181.
182. 183.

work and beads should be placed between
at the top
The
and bottom.
sections,
colors of a are red,
and
91
to
the outside
yellow, and blue,
but white could take the place of some

color, and black of another
section.
As the sections are not likely to turn with the same
rapidity,
there should be a constant

change of combination of colors.
Light forms that fill out with the breeze can be made of tissue
paper and attached to the kite line. Ugly monsters with
large mouths
and highly colored bodies with heavy lines on them to outline
scales
are very striking.
It is necessary to have these

open at both ends or
they will be torn open, also it is best to have a light framework about
the head to keep that in shape; the rest of the
body will usually be
taken care of.
Long serpents and fish are good for the purpose. If
the grotesque does not appeal to one,
long and short streamers can
be used in abundance.
kite line decorated with
pointed streamers
of various colors
would be very beautiful. Japanese lanterns might

be festooned along the line, and to reduce the
weight, the bottom could
be removed.
be used,
If kite flying
and these
lighted.
is
indulged in at night, fewer lanterns can
CHAPTER XI
BALLOONS AND PARACHUTES.
Balloons that
really go up are always attractive but by thoughtful

can
be
made much more beautiful.
nice white balloon
planning they
a
blue
is
like
more color. The
but
most
against
sky
very pleasing,
boys
hot air balloons are
made
of tissue paper, and consist of an inverted
bag with a light piece of reed at the bottom to keep the mouth open.
The most successful shape is shown by Fig. 184. This need not be
If the
perfectly round on top, but may be pointed, as in Fig. 185.
balloon
too nearly round like a ball,
is
allow the hot air to escape.
If
it
is
the balloon
liable
to
turn over and
too long and slender
is
it would probably flounder around in the breeze too much.

not
the variety possible in balloons that there is in kites,
is
as no ballast can be attached that is of much service.
In some shapes
vertically,
There
only a very
little is
necessary to keep them in an upright position, in
case a little ballast will suffice,
this
made with
this addition.
from the reed
The
at the bottom, see Fig.
some
a piece of cardboard, but in
Some
and a number
of shapes can be
ballast should be suspended by strings
The
186.
ballast
cases that little
is
may
only be
very necessary.
of the boys try models of the dirigible, but usually they get
something too large for hot air manipulation. The dirigible is more
of a cigar-shaped balloon.
Strings run down to a framework that
carries the propeller, which is a paper windmill in this case, but it is
very
difficult
to
keep
carried by the hot air
these
representative
parts
In making a balloon like Fig. 184 the covering

sections.
The
pattern given
the lower end of the section

inches,
and
it
light
enough
to
be
medium.
is
is
is
made
for a five-foot balloon.
in tapering
The width
five inches, three feet farther
comes to a point at the
top.
The
up
at
fifteen
edges of these sections
form a long curve, Fig. 187.

Five feet would require just a little
over two lengths of tissue paper.
There are seven sections in the
balloon.
Inflation.
Two
methods are used
stretched across the frame of the
mouth
92
to
fill
the balloons.
wire
is
of the balloon and another at
BALLOONS AND PARACHUTES
93
FIGS. 184, 185, 186.

FIGS. 187, 188, 189, 190.
FIGS. 191, 192.
right angles to
is
it.
ball of excelsior
attached at the crossing of the two.
into a disc about
two
having been soaked in paraffin

The ball should be flattened
inches in diameter and one inch in
thickness.
94
Holding the balloon up by

a parlor match.
When
part of the balloon.

to get
away
it
the
top
it
will
equipped
paraffin ball
is
several
travel
also
is
blocks,
wound about with
it
the upper
little
and wants
high
burns out.
in
up
the
The
it.
balloon
The
air.
wire which
a very fine
with
lighted
in
up the heat generator with
paraffin ball continues to furnish hot air until

so
disc
paraffin
filled so that it lifts
is
released carrying
is
the
burns and creates heat that collects
It
is
also
used to attach the ball to the wires across the opening of the balloon.
It will be seen
The
or
once that a good sized opening
at
the reed band
this design,
is
other method of filling
is by means of a stove
pipe furnace
but
in
this
case
all
the
is
done on the
device,
heating
some similar
ground.
hole
is
as a chimney.
dug
in the
fire is built in
the pipe to the balloon that
the stove pipe the blaze
is
would
ground and the stovepipe is banked in

the hole and the hot air goes up thru
If it was not for
suspended over it.
ignite the walls of the balloon.
quite large balloons have been sent up in this way.

sheet iron
good
is
to prevent the dirt
on the
necessary and in
ten inches in diameter.
is
fire,
to
make
Some
piece of tin or
a cover for the hole in the ground so as
from falling
in
on the
but there should not be too
up thru the pipe
so far as to
Some
fire.
much
burn up the balloon.
a cord above so as to hold the balloon up and
it
oil
It
is
well to have
that could be readily
might be used. As the bag gets inflated

the pole and hold to the bottom by the hands.
released
little
too high to hold with
if it is
the hand, a pole with a wire on the end of
use a
else the blaze will reach
it
is
best to remove-
In pasting the pieces of paper together, there should be about \"

Care must be observed in the pasting that there are no detached
laps.
places,
places
escape.
In
red,
where the paste does not stick well, as the hot air will
model given, one section was blue, two white, one
the
and three white, making seven in all.

Sometimes the colors are
in differently.
Half of a section will be one color, and the
worked
other half another, and next to each will be placed some contrasting
color.
Still
worked
out.
It
it
is
further breaking up can be done until quite a design
is
possible to decorate a plain balloon with surface design, but
must be bold and not over done.
An
example or two may be help-
BALLOONS AND PARACHUTES
95
188, 18Q, 190.

Yellow and black, Mack and red, purple
fuJ, Figs.
and white, green and white, and many other good combinations can
be selected, but two or three colors are better than many.
The best
grade of tissue paper is very much superior to the cheap, as the tendency
of the cheap to split out is very unsatisfactory and there are thin por-
The French
ous spots.
in
and they come
so called, are the best,
tissues,
shades of good colors.
many
Parachutes
are other forms of balloon.
They do not
the ground, but are released up in the air and float
ascend from
downward.
Some-
times a current of air will catch one and carry it far up and away.
They are made like an umbrella covering, sometimes in sections and
again in one piece, Fig. 191 and

are very
much
from the
like the
when made
When made
one-third of a balloon.
upper
in
sections,
are
They
your hand to beauties that are eight
of
size
192.
feet
they
made
across;
of brilliantly colored paper, they are very interesting.
They
have a weight suspended underneath to keep them upright in the descent.

Parachutes are usually taken up on a kite line and are released
The usual method of shaking them off the line

air.
not as good as a definite release by a tripping string from the ground.
If large ones are used, one at a time is sufficient and is simple to re-
well up in the
is
The
lease.
parachute
is
tied
with a bow-knot
the extra string and as this string

the parachute
is
When
released.
is
the kite line with
to
pulled the knot comes untied and
smaller ones are used they can be
and the lowest down on the string or the highest can

The same string can be used
then the next, and so on.
tied in a series
be released,
to tie
on a long
series.
No matter how
strings
and weight.
small
We
the parachute,
have
been a partial success, thus

each with
in
pulling
its
own
it
must have
tried parachute
far.
them up they are
released they cling together.
so liable to
suspension
bunch of these
string tied to the kite line,
its
show ers that have only

little
parachutes
have been released, but
get twisted
up,
that
If they could be carefully laid
in
when
some
am
sure
kind of an apron that would protect them from the breeze,
they might be tumbled out so as to separate without entanglement.
I
It is a
very pretty sight to see a large bunch turned loose, each spread-
96
ing
its
be of
tiny night cap to the air as

all
colors,
and for
this
parachutes
it
when
would be
would be used
is
they arc released.
interesting to
downward.
They should
purpose the one piece models
There
foot in diameter are best.
starts
it
and one
always a scramble for the souvenir

If
one had a rubber stamp
print something on
for the suspension cords
their
cover.
and perhaps a shingle
outfit,
Thread
nail for
the weight.
Another method
the Chinese
of
release
and Japanese,
used to set off firecrackers;
burns
off a
is
given elsewhere
is
sometimes used by
effected by using a lighted
when
the
punk burns down
punk such
as
far enough,
it
supporting thread, thus releasing the object held.
CHAPTER
XII.
REELS.
Reels are very convenient for most kite flying and quite necessary
where so much string must be let out and wound in
but
an
absolute
again,
necessity for events where racing is an important
for high flying
feature.
Many
devices have been used at our tournaments and
have been very clever.
a kerosene box.
The
some
simple and effective reel can be rigged up in

box is long enough to allow a seat for the kite
a foot brake can be arranged, and an all around satisfactory reel

can be made at light expense. Fig. 193 shows such a reel fully equipped.
flyer,
portion of the top
is
cut
away
so as to expose the spool of the reel,
FOOT BRAKE
FIG. 193.
FIGS. 194, 195, 196.
it
being necessary to see
if
the line
is
winding properly,
to see
if
it
is
A measuring
knots or entanglements.
nearly off,
device might also be attached, similar to cyclometers used on bicycles.
The end of the box is partially cut away but not the full width of the
and
to
watch
for
97
98
from
box, the portions remaining at the sides preventing the kite line
getting off the ends of the spools.
little
The
portion remaining should be
wider than the thickness of the flanges of the spool.

owing to the ease with which
axle will usually be a broomstick
be obtained and being hardwood,
can be used but
The
may
it
very satisfactory.
piece of pipe
hard to drill thru for the pins that hold spool and
is
is
crank to axle, also the holes that take pins on each side of box to prevent
Iron washers are used on the outside of box and
slipping endwise.
between spool ends and inside of box.
The crank is shown in the drawing and needs no special directions.

The pin holding the crank to the axle might be a small bolt with a
which adds strength in the prevention of splitting of the end
wood. A good spool for the reel might be found at a hard-
nut,
of the
ware
Chains come on well made spools that are excellent for
store.
These can be fastened
reels.
swer
if
to axle
by slanting pins;
of the spool;
may be put down thru the drum part of the

In this case small holes would have to 'be' drilled
also pins
spool thru the axle.
from opposite sides of the drum.

Other drums can be made similar
to
cured to two wooden disks and the center

as in Fig. 195, or
A
when
brake
is
by wooden rods as
little
Fig.
is
194.
built
The
axle
is
se-
up of other pieces
in Fig. 196.
a great convenience
letting out string, as the reel
sometimes runs ahead of the
and
nails will an-
they are not left out too far thru the outside of the flanges
OF
kite
so entangles the string; by a
pressure of the foot on the
brake, the
unwinding
on
the
edge of the flange of the spool.
The
brake should
act
lever of the brake
directly
would
Box
pass thru
the left side of the box, not
more
than two inches up from the hotIn case the spool is

torn, Fig. 197.
too short for the width of the box,
in the space,
Sipe. OF
The
ceases.
but the opening
in
p IG 197
wooden blocks can be used
to
fill
the end of the box that the kite line
REELS
passes thru
99
must be no wider than the distance between the flanges.

that has been mentioned is made of pipe.
The
Another axle
pipe can be one inch
diameter, and must be drilled
in
that fasten the spool to
it.
for the
pins
three-eighths or five-sixteenths hole can
be drilled near the end of the pipe outside the box, in which an iron rod
is
riveted with
its
outer end bent at a right angle.
the crank of the reel.
one has access
The
rod forms
heavy metal vise, the

If one wishes
axle and crank can be made of one piece, Fig. 198.
If
to
the reel to run very easily, a washer that
fastened to the side of the box with
fits
the axle nicely can be
two screws,
in
the
Fig. 199.
wood should
The
be a
hole
little
larger than the hole in the washer,
FIG. 199.
FIG. 198.
that turns very freely this way.
ground, shown
when
in
Fig.
The
thus
making the washer
bearing for the axle. I have one

wires running down to pegs in the
193, are for the purpose of anchoring the reel
the pull of the kite
is
on.
FIGS. 200, 201, 202.
100
Thus far the box has been the real

made as well, Fig. 200. The brake is
be
and
by hand or
support, but other frames can

applied at the rear on this
reel,
The
heavy wires are for

otherwise
the
construction
anchoring purposes,
may be the same as in
is
either
operated
foot.
Fig. 193.
Another way of securing the metal axle to the wooden spool

Drill two holes thru the pipe just far enough apart
follows:
as
is
to
allow spool to fit between. The holes should be just large enough to
allow a 16d or 20d nail to go thru.
Cut off the heads of the nails,
fit in holes with spool on axle, and with
good sized staples fasten
pins
(nails)
to sides of spools,
see
For the crank, a f"

"
201.
Fig.
hole can be drilled at the outer end of axle to receive a
rod bent
The
end to form the handle.
end of the crank that passes thru

the axle might be threaded about 1" so as to put a nut on each side,
at one
see Fig. 202.
The two
Large Reel.
paratively small reels.

It has
feet at a turn.
Fig.
general plans given above are for com-
203 shows a
reel that
winds
in
over four
but one bearing, be-
ing attached to the standard by a large bolt

for
an
axle.
It
would be well
piece of pipe just large
enough
to
bolt to turn freely and just long
to
have a
allow the
enough
to
reach thru the wheel as a bushing, for this

is
much more like a wheel. The sides or

are- made of two ply wood, in one-
flanges
half of the thickness the grain runs one
and the other half

that
it
prevents warping and
There
split.
wooden
is
no
real
is
way
it,
so
not liable to
FIG. 203.
drum, but small
rods, or slim bolts, hold the sides together, also apart,
about two inches
wheel being 18"

eter.
at right angles to
The
in
in
from the outside circumference.
and are
set
In the drawing, the
diameter, the bolts or rods are in a circle 14" in diam-
bolts or rods should be about eight in
number.
If
wood
rods,
doweling, are used, they would be glued at both ends and no other posts
would be necessary, but with the bolts, posts will be needed to prevent the
REELS
from coming together.
sides
is
Four
101
posts will be sufficient.
No
crank
necessary on this reel as a handle can be fastened to the side of one
FIG. 204.
of
the large
last
reel.
discs.
The
axle
FIG. 205.
brake can be attached underneath as
must be made very
has to support all the pull of the reel.

fast
rigid
This
in
is
first
the
in
the standard
as
class reel
it
for
work.
Discs can be obtained at some box factories for seven and ten cents
ISi" and 19-?,-" in diameter, respectively. They are

two ply wood and make good reels. A good way to get the
holes opposite is to clamp the two discs together and bore all the holes
Others make reels very much like our
thru both at the same time.
arms are halved together and short
reels.
Two
grandmothers' yarn
to
are
attached
the
ends, Fig. 204. For speed they are made
cross-pieces
apiece for sizes
made
of
with long arms and take up a good length of string at a single turn.
Another way of building up a
reel
is
shown
block has fans nailed or screwed to each side.

are shaped out to receive the kite
line.
The
in Fig. 205.
The
square
ends of the fans
end of the square center
piece can be rounded so as to pass thru a round hole of the framework^
or a hole can be bored thru the square piece and a pipe or rod inserted
as
w ith
r
the others.
For heavy work where large string pulling
kites
102
are used, geared reels are practical.
and
his reel
rigged up with a chain
Fig.
206 shows a picture
of a boy
drive, utilizing parts of a bicycle.
This was devised for speed, but it needs Manges at the ends of the
If one wished to put time enough on a reel, he could rig one
drum.
up out of parts of a
coaster brake would
bicycle that could be manipulated by the feet.

let
out the string and the winding in could be
any kite would stand. The wheel used for the drum
need
quite a little modification to prevent the string
portion would
from jumping off. As the usual frame would not admit of any widen-
made
ing,
as swift as
some additional framework would
stable enough.
If
one
time to make a good
more
for speed,
good simple
reel
and
is
is
reel,
is
also
be necessary to make
it
going to do much kite flying, it pays to take

not the last one described necessarily, as that is
not as convenient as a
a great satisfaction.
FIG. 206.
number
of others, but a
CHAPTER
XIII.
AEROPLANE MODELS.
Aeroplane Models
divided into four classes
A.
are
small
sized
They may
aeroplanes.
be
Small models of
large
made
machines,
the
for
purposes
of
construction.
Small models of large machines made for the purpose of
B.
flying
as kites.
Gliders.
D.
Self-propelling models.
will be seen at a glance that this chapter should be expanded
It
into a
book by
Mr.
itself.
Collins has written an excellent book,
"The
Second Book of Model Aeroplanes", on the subject, and I hope the

In
readers of this book will look it up, as it will be worth while.
dealing with the subject in this chapter
deeply and not
many
we
plans can be given, but
can not go into it very

will try to touch here
we
and there some of the important features of construction.

I have grouped the model aeroplanes into four divisions, but before
we
proceed
it
will be well to notice the various classes of large machines.
monoplane or one plane type; the biplane or two planes,

one above the other; and the multiplanes in which several planes are
used. The first two have survived, and form the very large percentage
There
is
the
of all that are attempted these days.
should like to
make
clear that
do not recommend, even discourage, any attempt at gliders large

enough to carry the maker, and the aeroplane in which a motor engine
There is too much danger connected with them, and our
is to be placed.
I
lives
and limbs are too precious a
The
little
are very fascinating, even
when
necessary ventures.
in a large
gift
to be trifled
with
in
such un-
models, however, are harmless and yet

there
is
no thought of their embodiment
machine.
In group A, where the worker
seeks to imitate a large machine in
miniature, the joy of the undertaking
very accurate work and
young people
in the
lies
nicety of finish.
making
in
the processes
There
of things in miniature.
103
is
involving
a fascination for
The
models made
KITiiCRAFT
104
AND KITE TOURNAMENTS
group A are usually larger than in group D, as the pieces of the

framework need a little more material to work to advantage, while in
D, the parts must be kept light. Weight is not so much of an item in
in
group A.
FIG. 207.
FIG. 208.
The
photograph of the Curtis model, Fig. 207, has a clock spring

This is a very fine piece of work
it, but it is of no service.
and has been admired by many. Outside of the clock works the model
works
in
AEROPLANE MODELS
is
all
handmade.
105
Little turn buckles for tightening the
as the little metal attachments to
made, as well
The
guy wires are attached.
guy wires were

which the ends of the
covering was stretched and oiled on
silk
the frame.
An
plane
equally well
all
made model
shown
is
It will be recognized that this
done.
in Fig. 208.
In
this
mono-
the curving of ribs and trussing of frame were very accurately

is
a very excellent piece of work
and the outlines of the planes are very beautiful and well proportioned.
The
planes are supported at the outer ends by careful adjustment of

Notice the two little braces above
wires above and below the wings.
the
the center of
framework
Turn-buckles are used on
this
which the guy wires are attached.

also.
The horizontal and vertical
to
model
planes to the rear of the model, but to the front in the picture, were
ideas original with the maker, altho I have seen pictures similar to this
since.
Some make up
them
these models in
as attractions in
a rental for a good model.

electric
motor
is
good shape for the purpose of using

Merchants will sometimes give
show windows.
installed in
Very often when used as a display, an

them so as to run the propellers.
In group B, the models are made to fly as kites. It is possible to

gain much knowledge about the motor driven models by patient study
on the aeroplane kite. The kite flying side will not help so much as
the gliding.
When
the aeroplane kite
considerable slack, the model will
planes are tilted properly.

left
and
fore
well up
punk method
and
aft.
It
is
well up,
glide
if
if
the string
allowed
is
well balanced and
if
the
Balance will be necessary both to right and

is very interesting to get such a model pulled
and have a release that will cut the kite line. The
have better control
good, only that we would like to
in the air
is
The punk
of just the time for cutting loose.

ever, that not
knowing
just
when
it
has this advantage how-
will cut loose
suspense, just as you wait for a bite on your
you are held
in
happy
fish line.
hooks are placed on

end of
the kite at each point of attachment of the bridle, and on the
on
each string of the bridle is tied a small ring, which is to be hooked
The hooks must bend back and downward and
the hook of the kite.
Another simple releasing device can be used:
106
FIGS. 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215.
AEROPLANE MODELS
must he
stiff
enough not
to hcnd.
>t
107
romse
the kite line will have to
be kept quite taut until time for release, when,
suddenly, the rings drop
if
the line
thus releasing the kite
off,
line.
is
slackened
If
it
glides
well some interesting things will develop.

There will be swoops and
glides, and loop the loops and all sorts of gyrations before it reaches
the ground.
If one is going to make a model just to fly in the air
without the maneuvering, but to look like an aeroplane in the air, it

should have the bridle placed so as to cause the kite to stay as near the
horizontal as possible. In order to do this, the upper loop of the bridle
should be shortened or the lower one lengthened as on a tailless or
any other kite. On the tailless kite one can shift the bridle so as to
make
the kite stay nearly over head, in fact
have had them pass the
zenith and dive over to the other side, and that well up in the air.
propeller that is turned by the breeze will help considerably in giving it
a realistic touch.
The side
Fig. 99 is very good for aeroplane kites.
wings can be extended and modified, as in Fig. 209, or the cross-pieces

can be bowed up, as in Fig. 210. The bridle should be attached only
in
two
places.
biplane is shown Fig. 211, one with bowed

212, and one with bent up tips on the upper plane
cross-pieces in Fig.
in
Fig. 213.
The
paper glider made by the children soars excellently

try an
Another modification of Fig.
aeroplane kite on that plan, Fig. 214.
folded
214
half
is
from the back

is
In this a plane is placed about

ends of the wings get their curve
the bird aeroplane kite, Fig. 215.
way from
front to back.
stick, a piece of
also of reed.
to the shape.
By drawing
The
The
heavy reed, and the outline of the bird
the shape on a board the reed can be bent
reed should be wet and tacks should be driven at
each side to keep the shape until dry.
This
kite,
if
well made, should
glide for a very long distance.

It
would take too much space
but the drawings
planning these
are both given.
to go into details
with each design,
think will be sufficient for most readers
models, especially
where framework and
who may
finished
be
kite
CHAPTER
XIV.
GLIDERS.
C
In group
is
found the most profitable source of study for

The glider has no motor and no
to be
the self-propelling model aeroplane.

propeller, but
is
made on
struction and adjustments.
the plan of the motored
The
glider
is
increasing the size to the actual model later.
or
it
The
in
the con-
smaller at
glider
is
more
first,
useful
made
heavier in comparison with the motored model.

thrown by the hand as if it were a spear, Fig. 216,
can be thrown by a rubber cord, Fig. 217, or by a springy stick,
for study,
The
model
made
usually
if
it
is
glider can be
Fig. 218.
FIG. 216.
FIG. 217.
All experiments except those intended for adverse conditions, should

be
made
where there
either indoors
is
no wind, or away from buildings
enough to be out of reach of the whirls that are always present near
buildings.
Heavy paper can be used for planes in some of the experi-
far
menting, and even much may be learned by the use of paper models
thruout the whole construction, but a little stiffening with small thin
strips as
reinforcement
is
For the model that

used for
better in
is
thrown
most
cases.
like a spear
The
from the hand, wood
is
spine can be f"xf "x30", the fore plane \"y2\"

in widest part x 8", and the rear plane ^"x44" in widest part x 20".
all parts.
108
GLIDERS
Bevel
off the
109
under side of the front edge of both
planes.
Fasten the
planes to the spine with rubber string, rubber bands will do, this will
allow easy adjustment back and forth on the spine. There are many
Move the foreplanc
experiments that can be tried with this model.
back, try;
and
try,
move back plane foreward,

This model and
so on.
try;
move foreplane foreward
other models are just the opposite
all
FIG. 219.
FIG. 218.
much pressure comes at one end, up it goes, if

up that end goes, while the same thing applied
It then seems clear at the start that
to the teeter, that end goes down.
we must have balance fore and aft, as well as right and left, with the
of teeter boards.
much
too
we must
quite tally we
kite
If too
at the other,
balance right and
left,
and model aeroplanes, there are no

"all
by
its
is
if
the
up and down does not
bridles.
The
little
ship
must go
lonely".
Another adjustment
that
but
can counteract by adjustment of the bridle, but on gliders
is
possible,
tipping of the planes.
By
and probably will be necessary, and

the use of
little
wedges, the front
110
edges of the planes
we
may
be tilted up, and by
trial
\\
think the best angle, which should not be great.
can decide \\hat
Possibly
.{"
might
be used under the front edge.

It will pay to spend much time in exon
these
and
it should be carried on until long
perimentation
gliders,
graceful glides are accomplished.
long before this, that in a very large percentage

arrangement of planes is reversed in model aeroplanes and
the large machines. The small planes are placed forward and are used
A few models have the large plane forlargely as elevating surfaces.
It will be discovered
of cases the
ward.
It will also be noticed in
looking over plans of model aeroplanes
that a large majority are monoplanes, while in the large machines there
are
more
biplanes.
Warping.
No
warping of the planes
has been discussed, but
it
is
is
necessary in the glider that
well in the lighter models to have some
warping called camber, in the larger planes especially. Another warping is from end to end of the plane, that is, the ends tip upward, never
downward. Sometimes models are made with the large plane warped
from front
side,
it
is
to
back, and with
and again the large plane

made. The last is more
the small
is
easily
upward on each
plane bent
sometimes bent
in
both directions as
done when wire frameworks are
In Fig. 217 the model is made

used in the self-propelling models.
lighter, the spine being a heavy piece of reed with a hook bent on the
end and the planes -|" or -jV veneer wood.
The
sling shot device
for
throwing the glider
is
made
of
heavy
spring wire, and will require a strong metal vice to bend it in.
forked stick can be used, or one can be cut out with a turning saw.
Fig.
218
is
Fig. 217 in weight, but a square spine

" or
Ty'x2"x6", 2" in widest part and the
quite similar to
i"xf"x!8" with planes
other \" or -^"x4"x\2", 4" in widest part. The force used to drive
this glider is given thru a springy stick of some tough wood, as oak or
hickory.
The
before
release.
have a
bow
its
little
stick should be quite stiff so as to resist
little
more pressure
block on the undef side of the spine might
hole in the back to receive a small nail in the end of the
stick used to
slipping off in the
throw the
glider, this will prevent the
throwing process.
bow
stick
from
GLIDERS
1 1
One other glider should be mentioned, and that is one with sheet
metal planes, Fig. 219. This has advantages and disadvantages. When
it strikes hard against some object, the metal is liable to
bend, also if
it is
thrown
violently,
and should
strike
someone on the face or hands
The
metal surfaces can be bent into any shape. All

corners should be rounded.
Some of these gliders can be thrown long
it
might
distances
cut.
if
properly adjusted.
After working awhile with
we
r
gliders,
can try model aeroplanes

Everything must be
that are suited for the instalment of motors later.
made
and strong as possible. All kinds of ribbed surfaces, keels,

wire
braced frameworks, are utilized. Everything that would
light
be used in a self-propelling model, except the propeller and motor.
as light
and
Make
the planes movable so they
moving them back and

until
forth,
flex
you get a good glider out of
peller.
Some may
may
more,
it,
be balanced as to pressure, by
flex
less,
tilt
more,
tilt
less,
then attach your motor and pro-
think best to put motor and propeller on, and do all
it takes time to make a good propeller, and the

fewer jams it has the better, so it is better to do some experimenting
with the model before the propeller is added. The motor will make
the experimenting, but
would be no advantage
on for experiments in gliding.
are now ready for some attempts on the self-propelling models.
practically no difference in the balance, so there
of putting
We
it
CHAPTER
XV.
MODEL AEROPLANES.
Self-propelling air devices must be of the lightest possible weight
and yet they must have strength. There will be no attempt to give a
great variety of model aeroplanes; but a few can be discussed, perhaps
three or four.
The
first is
a little practice model that has been of great
service to me, both for study
and will not
fly far.
and for instruction
can wind
it
up and turn
it
to others.
It
is
small
loose in a schoolroom.
hard sometimes but nothing has happened to it beyond a

broken propeller, and the rubber bands that are used to tie the planes
to the spine have been broken.
It hits rather
FIG. 220.
In Fig. 220 the model

elevation.
will do.
is
shown
in
two views, the plan and
side
The planes are made of -fa" birch veneer, but other woods,
The small fore plane is bent at quite a sharp angle and was
112
MODEL AEROPLANES
shaped as shown in Fig. 221.
kettle
The
and place
plane
it
also
is
113
Steam the plane thoroly over the
tea-
under pressure until dry and it will remain so bent.

tilted up a little by means of a small wedge.
The spine is made of spruce and is
"x"x!2". The
camber and
is
large plane has about
bent as
shown
|"
in Fig. 222.
Lay a strip as thick as the desired camber

on a board that you can nail brads into.
Steam the veneer for the plane and lay in
"
tne
str ^P m tms case about one-third the
'
FIGS.
222.
221,
distance
down
back from the front edge, bend
until the edge touches the board underneath the strip
and drive
brads in slanting so as to hold it down. The brads can be bent down a

little after they are driven in. By using brads on both sides the veneer can
5
f
c~~a.
FIG. 223.
down
be held
The
bending.
beautify
it
until dry.
The
outline can be cut
decoration of course
little.
The
is
away before or
not essential, but
it is
after the
interesting to
anchor block for the propeller shaft
is
of
wood
glued and nailed with brads to the rear end of the

"
spine.
piece of tin f wide is bent about the top of the anchor block, /,
The hole in the wood should be larger than the propeller
Fig. 223.
|"xl"xl" and
is
shaft while the hole in the tin should

fit.
In this
of the
After the
wound with
make a good
on the
is
tin instead
friction to a
tin is on, the block
min-
should be
linen thread and coated with glue
or shellac.
FIGS. 224, 225.
spoke, Fig. 223
the bearing
wood, and reduces the
imum.
CbdJJ
way
The
;
two
prope u er sna f t
ma(
e f rom a bicycle
of these can be purchased for a nickel.
The
long nut,
114
shown
at b, is cut with a metal saw in two places, giving small nuts c and
used on the inside and d on the outside of the propeller. The spoke
then cut off long enough to pass thru the propeller, a glass bead as a
d; c
is
is
washer, and the anchor block, with room for a good hook on the end for
the attachment of the rubber motor. The propeller will be discussed further in the next chapter
from which
the blank
of the spoke
is
the only thing to be mentioned here
it
bent as in
is
the size of
made, which is ^"xl"x4". Another piece

Fig. 224, and is inserted in the fore end of the
is
This gives the

spine and bent still further into shape like Fig. 225.
other anchor hook for the rubber motor.
One other piece is the small
keel
shown
in the side view.
groove
is
made
in the
under
side of
the spine and the keel set in with glue.

I am using four rounds of -jV'
rubber string for the motor. That
makes eight strands. Six do very

well. This is a very useful little
model but
it
will not
over
fly
fifty
feet,
or mine has not, but the fact
that
it
does not
fly
landing, and
its
gives you
far,
opportunity to study
its
start,
The
flight.
its
long
distance models are out of observation
we
range so soon that
miss
the chance to diagnose their crazy
symptoms, if they have any, and

most of them have some.
At
FIG. 226.
model
of
the
beginning
aeroplane making, everyone seemed to try to see
be exposed in the planes,
planes as
obvious
ning,
it is
now
possible to use
there
is
many were
so
much
how much
surface could
the best models are those with as
and
still
support the air craft.
skin friction on broad surfaces.
inclined to scoff at the rubber
The
At
narrow
reason
is
the begin-
band motor, but since
considerably over a half mile, with this same
flights have been made

power, it seems good enough for anybody. Most of the long distance flyers have long framework so as to accommodate long strands of rubber,
which allow much increase in the winding up of the motor.
MODEL AEROPLANES
115
Good Model. A simple and effective model is shown in Fig.

Lay out a light framework, as shown in Fig. 227. It is the
combination of a tailless kite and a triangular box-kite. Three
long
226.
FIGS. 227, 228.
used for the triangular portion and three cross-sticks,
sticks, a, b, c, are
d, e, f, are for the
wing
supports.
^"xf "x8"
vertical post, g, about
used in the center of the rear (the wide part), to stiffen the frame and
give an anchorage for the propeller shaft. Four light braces, h, i, j, and
is
k,
make
possible to use lighter material than
it
the entire framework.
larger than T
a stick so small.
upper
pieces,
b,
square, but there
a,
must be no
one would suspect for

b, and c, need not be
split or
uneven places
in
The two
The
c,
make them
so as to
In a model 3' long,
braces ^"x TV' would be plenty large.

should be flattened on the inside of the front end
join together, terminating in a point.
on the upper
spine, a, should be flattened
The
lower
same reason.
side for the
All
trithree should be glued and lashed together with linen thread.

angular block, /, should be placed about 4" back from the front end
with a strong cup-hook screwed in the side toward the rear, on which
The block, /, must be well
the ring of the rubber motor is attached.
The
secured to the triangular framework with glue and thread.

piece, d,
Piece e
is
30" long and

24" long, 5" in
is
will be heavy
d,
and
e.
enough for
is
/,
bowed upward
as
is
shown by
front of d, and both are
and
It will be necessary to
this
cross-
Fig. 228.
^"x^". tf'x-fa"
much more than
should be bowed
steam
this piece a little.
Chinese
rice
116
Cover the underside of the two planes,

tissue will be good for covering.
and the underside of the triangular framework which is similar to the
hull of a boat,
and
acts as a keel.
Test out well
Put more
as a glider.
^-NWv^NSNX ^xsv
NVXXNX
wWrtXVvv
FIG. 229.
and
less
curve to bows, and experiment for poise of model.
small
piece of tin on each side of the support will give a good bearing for the
propeller shaft.
The
hole in the
wood should
be a
trifle
the shaft.
is
larger than
run from both
String
ends of d and e to the front end of
framework but
the
is
not attached
to/.
When long models are made

with single spine, they need some
simple wire supports to prevent
springing up or down, and from
left to right.
Fig.
229
is
4' long
and the spine

only $"\' at tne
"
small end i"xf at the larger end.
is
little
-fa"
oak
veneer
cut
in
very
strips TV' wide would
serviceable for the purpose of supbe
port in trussing the long spine.
It
should stand 2" above and below

FIGS. 230, 231, 232.
the right and left brace, Fig. 230.
the spine, and the same
The
amount
for
wires for these should extend
about a foot on each side of these posts, and be attached to the spine
with little tin anchors, as shown in Fig. 230, a.
MODEL AEROPLANES
The
propeller shaft bearing
piece, called the base, Fig. 231.
The
of bearing for the shaft.
is
of metal
and
117
is
lashed to the cross-
not necessary to have two points

metal is about Ty'xi"xl", bent as in
It
is
/I
UiilS
*WS
FIG. 233.
and lashed
Fig. 232,
to the
under
similar to those in the next model.

used.
Try
side of the base.
I"xl^"x7^"
about fourteen strands of T
The
planes are
propeller blanks are
string rubber for each motor,
seven rounds.
My
favorite
model
aero-
shown in Fig. 233. It

plane
had made some very pretty flights
when it took a notion to glide into
a young man's bicycle as he was
riding by. Well, there was no improvement on the aeroplane when
is
the chain and spokes of the bicycle
were thru with
it.
The framework
is
light
spread well at the rear.

spines
are
and
Ty'x^"x33" and
come together
at the
is
The two
they
forward end,
FIGS. 234, 235, 236, 237.
118
the vertical section being
"
'
Nine
inches back from the front end

cross-piece that
thickness,
fold,
The
on
--''dotted.
is
just
under
a
in
wide and 2\" long.

is on the upper side
cross-piece
of the spines,
small
thread
shellac.
\"
and
brad,
is
is
fastened by a
lashed
with
and coated with glue or

The other cross-piece is 1"
forward from the rear end,

the
is
"
same dimensions
is
of
in cross-section
FIG. 238.
as the forward piece, but is 8" long

secured in the same manner as the other, see Fig. 234.
The
framework is further stiffened by two fine wires that run diagonally
from the ends of one cross-piece to the ends of the other. They are
and
is
secured
the
to
inside
vertical
one at each end,

\" brad that
holes,
receives a
into
the spines
by means of small
driven
while the wire
the spine,
of
one
the
is
attached to the other hole.

little pieces
face
have two small
pieces of tin that
is
The
of tin are about -fV'x-i"
and are lashed
to the spine in ad-
dition to the fastening by the small
brad.
This kind of fastening pre-
vents slipping, also the cutting

to the
wood,
either of
in-
which would
destroy the efficiency of the wire. In
order
to
increase
the
tension
the wire, a small turn-buckle
is
of
in-
serted, Fig. 235.
The
bearings for the propeller
shafts are lashed to the outside face
The bearing is a piece of brass

bent to a right angle at the middle. A small hole
of the rear end of each spine, Fig. 236.
3y
/x i"xl"')
and
is
MODEL AEROPLANES
is
for a brad into the side of the spine
drilled
drilled to receive the propeller shaft,
shaft
the
is
bent into a hook after
rubber
of
In
this
motor
the
the
to
injurious
hook.
rubber,
it
and the other hole

TV'
steel
the
steel
hose
is
wire,
slipped
is
The
wire.
To
passes thru the bearing.
prevent
which
over
is
the
model, the propellers are pieces of veneer steamed and
The
two
propeller shaft then

little
\" wide and \\" long

shaft
is
is
is
washers between
which comes the covered hook,
The
is
touching
small rubber
the center of the propeller, has
bearing, after
which
from
pressed into the spiral shape.
around.
119
bent around
and the
this
A piece of
see Fig. 237.
folded about the propeller before the shaft
is
tin
bent
tin, the tin being secured by two

small tin rudder with a small fold in its
soldered to the
small brads and shellac.
FIG. 242.
may
made
fore plane
up almost
is
The
be slipped over the back cross-piece, Fig. 238.
upper portion
of very thin spruce, shaped like Fig. 239,
like a butterfly's wings,
Fig. 240.
The wood
and
is
is
less
bent
than
double hook as anchors for the double motors, is bent

and secured about the fore end of the framework. The hooks are
covered with the rubber hose, the same as the propeller shaft, Fig. 241.
TV" thick.
The
large plane
shape of Fig. 242
is
44"
in the
in outline,
outline of the plane
is
widest place and
20"
is
the straight side being
a steel or brass spring wire T
long.
It is
to the rear.
the
The
diameter and
is
120
The
spliced at the center of the long sides, being soldered at this point.
ends of the wire lap over an inch or more.
which are
5"
ward, most of
from the outer ends.

it
The
There
are but
two
ribs
have a slight curve up-
ribs
being near the free edge of the plane, Fig. 243. The
bent at a right angle and are soldered to the outside
e-nds of the ribs are
framework of wire.
and
made
is
-]-"
frame.
A 4/'
cover
now
is
The
cover of the plane
made
is
of prepared silk
larger all around than the size of the outline of the wire
hem
is
then turned which gives strength to the edge.
The
over cast with needle and thread to the framework, stretch-
ing fairly tight.
The framework of the large plane is

not secured directly to the wooden framework of the model, but is soldered to wire
loops that in
a-- rt ~
b-b-fvome.
turn
flat
lie
on top of the
....
with
spines of the frame, Fig. 242, a,

.
try out the model.
If
a.
This
string so as to
gives opportunity to tie
it is
too far forward,
can be slipped back and vice versa; when the correct position is
The fore
located, it is permanently wired to the wooden framework.
it
plane
is
attached by means of rubber string.
monoplane, and
The
is
This
is
known
as the
a commercial product.
propellers will be further discussed in the next chapter.
Mann
CHAPTER
XVI.
PROPELLERS,
MOTORS, GEARS, AND WINDING DEVICES.
There
pellers
1.
are four kinds of pro-
carved
Propellers
out
of
and laminated blocks.
solid
2.
Metal propellers with curv-
ed or twisted surfaces.
3.
Built up propellers.
type a small block
and the wood
In
this
used as a hub,
or metal fans are
is
projected out from
The
this.
fans
are attached on the diagonal.

4.
wood
Propellers
made
of
pressed
These are excellent,

but require more skill and more
veneer.
apparatus to make.
The carved
out propeller
one most generally used and
is
the
is
not
only a good exercise in modeling

with a knife, but is a good service-
There
able kind.
by men
For
who have
simplicity
carving,
rectangle
in
like the
is
f"xU"x6",
made
number of
named mostly
are a
types of propellers,
designed them.
laying out and
Langley type. A
of wood, say
Draw
Fig. 244.
radius of
-j",
and center
the
With
diagonals, as in Fig. 245.
at the in-
draw a
FlGS 244 ' 251
half-inch circle. Connect the diagonal lines and the circumference of the circle, as in Fig. 246, and cut
tersection of the diagonals,
down
to the outline as
it
now
appears.
121
The
blank
'
is
now
as
shown
in
122
We will now
Fig. 247.
big slices, not all in one cut, but in
these same parts cut away.

curved back to edges z and z.
249 shows
Fig.
the blade
is
be as in Fig." 250.
Cut
the back corners a
little,
the opposite side
giving the result
paper well and shellac.
The
Now
cut
The
cut
away x and x until

away portions will
the same way, and cut away
as shown in Fig. 251.
Sand-
Drill hole carefully for the propeller shaft.
FIG. 254.
FIG. 253.
FIG. 252.
is
two
take off
Fig. 248 has the dotted lines showing the depth to be cut, and
several.
principal objection to the metal propeller
liable to
occur
when
is
the bending that
the model lights, unless there are lighting devices
The hub propellers may have

underneath, and they all add weight.
metal or hardwood veneers for fans. The hub may be round or square
;
see Figs.
252 and 253.
Very good
may
propellers
Extra curvature of the outer ends of the fans
is
be
made
in this
way.
possible, Fig. 254.
The veneer
far
propeller must be steamed and pressed. This is by

The -j^" hardwood veneer is the best.
the most difficult to make.
The
propeller
is
make up
not reoinforced to
the carved propeller, but
is
for the extra thickness of
of uniform thickness thruout.
The
veneer
is steamed and twisted to shape.

The veneer should be
Fig. 255 shows a pattern for a propeller blade.
steamed or soaked in hot water until the wood is very pliable and soft.
is
first
cut to shape in outline and then
form should be ready so
the central portion.

is
as to get
necessary for the center, which
one-inch piece of
both wings with equal twist from
will suggest one, others can be devised.
wood about
]-"
may
be
made
as
follows:
wide and any length.
Set
clamp
take a
it
up
PROPELLERS, MOTORS, GEARS AND WINDING DEVICES
123
Make
a cut -$" deep and one inch long across the

upper
and
screw a small piece over top as a clamp. After
edge, Fig. 256,
edgewise.
thoroly steaming the propeller blade until
it
very pliable, insert
is
clamp at the center and twist from the straight

It is not easy to get the two sides
up, the other down.
into the
recommend
the bending of one side at a time, and
it
one fan
side,
just alike, so
when
that
is
dry,
FIGS. 255, 256, 257, 258.
remove, and reverse the ends, being sure to keep the straight edge to
same as before. To be accurate, there must be a guide
the front, or the
block to bend
For a nine-inch
to.
would be about
right.
propeller,
a block like
Place guide in position, press blank
the oblique surface and secure there until dry.

end.
It will
Fig.
257
down
to
Repeat for the other

be seen that the guide
block and clamp are both secured

to a
board for a base; they
may
secured to a table or bench-top.
clamp might be devised

would hold the propeller
cal
FIG. 259.
and secure both ends
Another way
blank
to
be
also that
in a verti-
position with guide blocks on
either side of center so as to bend

at the
same time.
is
to clamp the center of the
and with two clamps made by sawing into
bend propellers
in a vertical position,
124
the ends of
two
pieces of \\ond,
the thickness of the blank, and
blade forward and
the
Fig.
258, a cut \\nlc enough to take
deep enough for the \vidth, bend one

The small clamps on
Kig. 259.
other back,
the propeller blades should be placed at equal distances from the center,
and should be given an equal amount of
twist.
The
small clamps on
the blades will not be forced over until they touch the base, so blocks
of equal size should be used as stops in the operation of twisting.
clamps should be secured
in
base until the propeller
dry.
is
FIG. 260.
Still
another
way
the last position by
means
The
of cord to the
FIG. 261.
to attain the twist in veneer propellers,
would be
have two blocks gouged out to the proper shape, one just fitting in
the other.
After the propeller is shaped in outline and steamed, it is
placed between the two blocks, which are in turn clamped firmly toto
gether until propeller
is
dry.
Motors.
Quite a number of devices have been tried, but the

rubber string is by far the most efficient power yet discovered. Rubber
more power than an equal weight of steel in all ways

The power of the rubber motor is dependent
on the unwinding of the strands of rubber after having been wound up.
The longer this unwinding may be delayed the further the little air
has a great deal
that steel has been tried.
PROPELLERS, MOTORS, GEARS AND WINDING DEVICES
125
may be propelled, providing there is force enough expended at

any time to give the necessary momentum to the propeller. A long
motor has more revolutions than a short one. Hence some advocate
a long spined frame to the model aeroplane.
Others prefer to cut the
frame a little shorter and give great pitch to the propeller which decraft
mands more energy at a given time, hence heavier strands, or more

strands of the smaller rubber string. With the greater pitch propellers,
the model is propelled faster and so may cover as great or greater
distance than one with a motor that gives
ing, but
it
use the T
more revolutions
in
possible to revolve so fast as not to propel at all.
is
square rubber string, others the |" while
many
unwind-
Many
use ribbon
thick by Ty, -J-", and T

wide.
For small
rubber
bands
can
be
models,
looped together.
Gears. Small, light weight gears can be made or bought. They
are attached to propeller shafts and are geared back different pitches.
rubber, say -fa" to T
Some one
one to three, while some gears are one to one.

one is added friction and no gain in winding,
It might seem that one
but a hook is attached to each gear wheel which allows two rubber
to two, others
to
motors instead of one, and allows longer unwinding.

strands are divided they wind up
in
as
one bunch.
Fig.
the rubber
when combined
you cannot turn

260 shows a one to one gear
connections, and Fig. 261 a gear with a greater

gear of one to one might be placed at
its
If
turns than
If eight strands are twisted together
times as with four strands.
many
and
many more
the opposite end of the
ratio.
framework from the
extending the number of

revolutions in that manner, the second rope
propeller,
thus
or motor extending back and

first,
Fig.
below the
262
Winding Devices.
It
is
tiresome to
wind up the rubber motors by hand, so

mechanical winding devices have been
made. A drill with a hook in the place of
a drill-bit
is
motor where
quite satisfactory.
it
is
It
is
best to have a ring
attached to the anchoring hook.
hooked on the hook of the
drill.
FlG
This winds but one
2 62.
on the rubber
This ring can be

at a time, so they
126
should be changed about in the winding process, first on one and then
on the other back and forth, until tight enough.
very good winder
can be made of a revolving egg-beater. The egg-beating part is cut off,
leaving
two
shafts instead of one.
motors can be wound at once and

directions, the device
works
all
If
there
as they
right.
is
a hook on each, both
should be
wound
in opposite
CHAPTER XVII.
TOURNAMENTS.
work
All of the
of construction and flying of kites
profitable for development yet there
by bringing about yearly tournaments for the exhibition of
interest
the
many
efforts in construction
and design that are undertaken.
tournaments have a further usefulness
in
excellent and the day
Thousands attend
The
is
The
the bringing of our schools
The
together in a great outdoor social event.

is
interesting and
is
opportunity for furthering this
is
such an event
spirit of
a joyful one to the children
and parents.
these yearly gatherings.
Director.
It
is
necessary for a good tournament that some
and
interested
competent person take general charge of the whole

and not leave the planning and arranging to others.
Helpers
are necessary at the tournament, but preparation should be directed by
some one person. In so doing, we do not overlook the helpful cooperaaffair
tion of the principals at the various schools, but seek to interest

as to possibilities of undertakings by their children.
them
Instructions should
be sent out from time to time as to new things to be constructed and

three or four weeks before the tournament, quite complete instructions
regarding the different events that
may
be entered, and rules pertaining
to each should be posted in each school.

It
is
well to organize a little in the schools that are interested.

be recognized as a leader and a good kite maker.
He
Some boy may
can round up the team, get the boys interested and encourage them to
enter events not yet taken so as to cover as many events as possible and
fewer in the same. The preparation for the tournament gives a great
opportunity to the teachers and principals to get in touch with boys.
Many boys have come to know their teachers with just such an introduction, and
work
in the
it
has been the means of starting a good
many
Some boys seem to
schoolrooms on their studies.
of gear with their schoolroom environment and need a
life.
This kind of undertaking
is
for the teacher to get near to the boys.
enough
one
them back
a tramp, or some form of sport to get
play,
school
to send out for a
retail
them out
one
127
to
get out
touch of
their real
of the great opportunities
Some
teachers are enthusiastic
good sized bundle of
to the boys at cost.
little
boys to
The
sticks
and have some
boys appreciate a
little
128
even
this kind
effort of
if
discussion of design in the
there
no prospect of a tournament.
is
drawing work
will also be a practical de-
parture from the regular work, and will again arouse the lazy boy to
do his best. Now if the teacher will take some interest in the making,
even
of
if
she doesn't
know
much about
very
who cannot
and especially
it,
in the flying
and there are but few teachers
the kites, she will be progressing,
making and
learn a good deal about kite
flying,
if
they are
willing to try.
The manual
to
training teacher and the shop are very able assistants
previous to
the tournament
up
allowed for the special construction of

will
waste valuable lumber if allowed to
boys
The
kites in the shop.

rip
In some schools, a week some time
the kite construction projects.
thin boards, so
it
is
will pay to encourage the buying of spruce
There is much adjustment in attaching string and covering,

and putting on of the bridle as much as possible of this should be
reserved for home work, but some might be done at school.
sticks.
But the work
Suitable Location.
ment altho an important
of the tournament,
manager
open
see
it,
one side so
hoodlums
from wires,
people will have
don't
usually
some trouble
care
kites
is
too thick, there
getting entangled
of kites,
much
so
it,
and
it
it
is
is
more chance
to
without
for
beautiful
getting
into
if
Now
way
a
to
things,
too
close
they are not
get the kite straightened
in other kite lines.
must be
It
should be large enough
Kites are liable to dive around somewhat, so
quarters.
will call the
to go a little out of their
accommodate a great many
it
not a tourna-
is
we
accessible by street car service,
go to
if
director,
find a suitable location.
to
especially
to
must
the school
at
The
it.
free
to the breeze,
little to
factor of
up before
many kinds
The kites are
that there are so
necessary to locate the kinds on the field.

when the list of events is sent out, and these groups
divided into groups

are placed
in
different
following group
is
Group D.
Measured
locations on
the field.
to be located.
Events.
27.
Highest Flyer
Single.
28.
Highest Flyer
Tandem.
29.
Highest
flight in five
minutes,
etc.
We
will suppose the
TOURNAMENTS
129
On
the ground, separated from the others, would be a bulletin board

that is fastened to a post and this is set in the
The post is
ground.
about nine feet long, and the bulletin board is nailed to it, the lower
edge being about one foot
down on
the post.
If the post
is
set eighteen
ground there would be six and a half feet up to the lower

edge of bulletin. The announcements can be printed with chalk. They
stand out and can be read across the field, see Fig. 263. The tournament
inches in the
is
always on a Saturday afternoon, so the bulletins are
set
Saturday
morning.
If
model
there
be set and
enclosure.
no space fenced
is
and for the
flying,
off
for
few
races, a
aeroplane
posts should
two wires about No. 9 run around an
Make
it
an enclosure, for
if
you don't
tried a
V-shaped fence, but
it
was
useless;
crowd
FLYERS.
with an
enclosure and two or three policemen about,

possible to keep the
it
We
will be impossible to keep the spectators back.
it
is
out.
on your judges at least two

Judges.
weeks ahead of the tournament. It will assist in
Settle
arousing interest
in the schools
with which they are
Principals and manual training teachers

should be available and serviceable.
It is not nec-
connected.
sary to be a kite
maker
About three judges

have two.
still
to be there
Try
to a
to be able to
group
is
judge a
good, then
if
one
to start at the appointed time
on time.
FIG. 263.
kite.
fails to appear you

and urge your judges
Caution the pupils about putting their kites up

if played with before-
before the time, as they are so liable to accident

hand.
Save a place of honor for your superintendents.
award prize badges, or to select the prettiest

most ingenious device, the best made model or
to
all
of these but something of this kind.
They may
kite in the air,
be asked
and the
the best invention
Don't forget
to use
them
not
in
place.
Get
the promise of two, three, or four policemen, a few
days ahead.
The
presence of a few good officers helps in curbing desires

Kites are liable to accident, so if you
a few.
some
for destruction
among
1JO
can have a kite hospital \vhere the boys can get a

string or stick,
An
its
it
information bureau
location.
The
little
paper and paste,
will sometimes heal quite a disappointment.
judges
is
a good feature.
Have
as well as the children
glad of some help of this kind.
a bulletin showing
and parents would be
Official badges are given to the judges,
director, superintendents of schools, information and badges, and helpers.
The
badges are given out to the officers at the information bureau.

small stand at some prominent location in the field would be of service for
the giving of the prize badges to the
receives a slip, Fig. 264,
name, school, the
first
from one
winning contestants.
Each winner
of the judges of his group, giving his
or second pri/.e and event, the judge keeping a
TOURNAMENTS
131
Name
School
Event
Prize
Name
School
Event
Prize
Name
School
Event
Prize
Name
School
Event
Prize
Name
School
Event
Prize
Name
School
Event
Prize
FIG. 264.
10
132
RECORD SHEET FOR GROUP

a.
Strong puller (over 3
Glen Mollohan
b.
ft.)
first
prize
Richard Hillman. .second
prize
Strong puller (under 3/4
Ban
Magnolia Are. school 34

Vermont Ave. school 28
first
prize
Vermont Ave
school
prize
9th St
school
prize
Breed
school
Yacht
race
Archie
Zimmerman.
first
second prize
school
Quarter mile dash
Nat Stockwell
Elgin McNarry.
e.
first
.
Union Ave
school
McKinley Ave
school
Union Ave
school
prize
.second prize
Parachute display
Jessie
Frampton
first
prize
school
second prize
f.
Kite antics
Jas. Bruce
.first
prize
Vermont Ave
High flyer
Loren Eads
first
James Fish
W.
F.
prize
second prize
37th St
Loreta
Hughes
Helen E. Hunt
J.
W.
Hamer
JUDGES
FIG. 265.
school
school
second prize
g.
Ibs.
ft.)
d.
Ibs.
Corwin Stephens .second
Elmer
c.
KITE TOURNAMENT.
II.
.school
school
TOURNAMENTS
have had a number of winners among the
sheets for the judges will he
some
girls.
work
of the
Each pupil who wins
the tournament.
133
in
These
slips
and record
for the director before
any event receives an ap-
propriate badge, Fig. 267.

If it is convenient, it is always well to
have two transits give the actual heights of
Some simple ones might be

flyers.
made, but there are often students who
would like the opportunity to do some work
high
of the kind for practice.
out a printed
list
It is
well to send
of the winners to all the
schools after the tournament.
It
might be
written as follows
25.
Highest Flyer
Albert
First.
Tandem.
Johnson,
24
St.
School.
Second.
ington
Victor Wagoner,
Wash-
St. School.
In sending out notices before and
after,
request the principals to place them in a
conspicuous place for the boys to see. The

principal's office is not a good place, for
some
will not go to the office to study them,
these boys
may
don't care
material
is
to
be just as interested but they

If the
have us know it.
where the boys can
see
it
easily
they sometimes get interested unawares to

themselves.
All plans should be placed in
an open place,
FIG. 267.
CHAPTER XVI
1 1.
TOURNAMENTS, CONTINUED.
The newspapers
are glad to publish notices and pictures, and
will even print plans of
work
free.
They
some
are very persistent in getting
reports of the tournament, so the judges should be careful in recording
The
each event.
reporters will be on the ground
if
they have knowledge
of its whereabouts.
Ice cream and sandwich

is
wagons are
them to the margin

come inside any of the
best to restrict
be allowed to
All string that

beforehand.
It
is
is
liable to get in the
of the cro\vd.
way, so
it
should not
They
locations for the events.
to be used in races of
any kind should be measured
best for the director to take charge of the string until
time for the event, or until he can turn
it
over to the judges in charge
Boys are liable to make a mistake in getting their string

I place a couple of nails one hundred
too short, so it must be measured.
feet apart in the rail of the board fence, the boys wind about that
of that group.
until they have the required length,

see
if
it
is
correct.
If the string
temptation to take out some.

the string
it
from a
is
There
stick in the races,
comes to the winding
and by counting the string
if
can soon
given back to the boy, there

is
no disadvantage
there
is
is
in letting out
a reel to attach
it
to
when
in.
Announcements should be
sent out a
week ahead
of the
tournament
measured such and such afternoons, perhaps two

It is not best to leave it until just the
the
tournament.
before
days
be as free as possible from such work
should
director
the
as
day before,
full
attention to rounding up of details
to
order
in
time
at such
give
the last of the preparations.
toward
accumulate
sure
to
that are
race
consists of the letting out and
Dash.
The
Quarter Mile
that the string will be
on one quarter mile of string. The boys set their

reels ready for the best speed and they group themselves quite close
together, but far enough apart to prevent mix-ups, and at the proper
winding
in of a kite
time are handed their string that has been measured and labeled which
one helper and the
they attach to kite. Each boy in the race is allowed
kite
may
be held by the helper a hundred feet away, ready to toss
134.
it
in
TOURNAMENTS, CONTINUED
When
the air at the sign for starting.
The
the group calls "ready! go!"
string as fast as
The
sometimes stop playing out and work

If there
breeze.
as
it
If a kite
may
it
drops
As soon
as all the string
The
violence toward
kite
the
mounts up
mishaps.
the
owner
is
If
reel.
the winding until the kite
The
kite that
is
hook on the
his string over a
can turn.
up a
is
is
string breaks,
down
warm
more
the string as fast

it
out the boy slips the loop on the

reel and winds in as fast as he
the air and
in
to get
little
be worked up again, but
and back.
No
again attached.
jerked
usually a pretty
all
time keeper is
are needed to keep back the on-
to the end of the quarter mile
lookers.
up and are given the
boy with a steady head will
his kite
placed by each contestant, and officers
end of
ready, the one in charge of
plenty of breeze, they are fed
is
pulled out.
is
must go
is
kites are tossed
will be taken.
it
all
135
is
pulled with great
the time keeper stops
allowance
into the reel first
boy.
The
is
is
made
for
winner, and
helper can take turns in
winding.
Other
We
races should be similarly conducted.
have had races
in
the construction of a tailless kite, including the lashing and stringing of
framework and covering, attaching
of bridle and the kite
must
fly.
In
In the light weights, the
pulling contests, spring scales are used.

twenty-five pound scales are best, but the fifty pound
all
is
For very heavy pulling, large

be borrowed for the day from some hardware man.
for all around purposes.
more
serviceable
ice scales
might
measure the pull of a kite, the string is looped about the hook
and the record made. Several records are made of each
over a period of about thirty minutes or so. The judges going to
To
of the spring
kite
and fro measuring
this
one and
get the best register.
It
that each aeroplane
may
is
The
that.
well in
trial
be tried or
kite should be
events to set the
tests of
ascending to
of times
number
pulling permitted, as some
will tease for a continual performance.
and teachers are good as judges for the artistic

All kites are in the air most of the time, so a general survey
events.
It is well to have about five judges on this
is made of the whole field.
The
group.
art supervisors
Less will do the work
into the service.
all
right, but
it
is
well to
draw many
136
If the director could be on horseback so as to be easily seen, and

also be able to get about easily,
it
would help out
considerably.
Mes-
sengers from judges to director or information would be useful.

Badges. For badges, we use a celluloid button, with our own
the ribbon attached has printing in black.
first
prize, blue,
colored
buttons,
Some
the second, red.
The
we have
years
this year the buttons were
cut,
officers get yellow, the
all
used different
the
yellow,
ribbons,
yellow, red, and blue.
See the street car

tions for the day.
officials in
order that they
may plan accommodamen by the officials,
Instructions are posted for the car
that consideration be given to the boys with their kites and in most cases
Of course large kites

the men have been very helpful in this respect.
A great many are taken to the
cannot be taken on the street car.
field in
automobiles.
Just before the tournament
is
it
rather difficult to locate the boys
making their kites, as they work in secluded places, but if you know of
some that are making progress, a photograph by the newspaper men will
add considerable zest
Get your school

in
to
the advertising side of preparations.
officials enthusiastic first,
encouraging the undertaking, for
is
Then
and should be made worth while.
making
it
and get their cooperation
a great school social gathering
boost for
it.
Demonstrate by
or flying a kite, and the boys will take care of the
rest.
A SAMPLE ANNOUNCEMENT.
MANUAL TRAINING OFFICE

Los Angeles City Schools
KITES
New
AND AEROPLANE MODELS.
Year's Greeting to the
Kite Makers of Los Angeles

The Sixth Annual Kite Tournament will be held April 20, 1912,
The spring vacation will be a good time to design,
at Exposition Park.
The model aeroplanes will have a
construct, and try out new ideas.
:
much
larger place than heretofore at the
coming tournament.
number
of good plans of kites and
137
model aeroplanes will be sent out during the
season.
coming
Spruce sticks can be obtained again this year at 1335 E. 6th

Box Co., in 25c bundles or more.
St. at
the Southern California
The Goodyear Rubber Co., No. 324 S. Broadway is carrying string

rubber and will have one sixteenth and one eighth inch, very good sizes.
Models propelled by rubber bands should be from 20" to 30" across.
Do
make
not
the planes too wide,
much
of the failure of models
is
due
to this mistake.
Two
the east are advertising small
firms in
gasoline
motors for
Models to carry these motors should be from 6' to

Models so equipped are operated by cords running to the
model aeroplanes.
8' or more.
One boy
ground.
his
claims to have succeeded with a storage battery under

If we get our model well
in his model.
arm and an Ajax motor
under control
as suggested
we
should be able to carry the storage battery on a wheel

No one has reported a success with the
ago.
two years
clockspring device.
long coiled
steel
wire spring has more promising
possibilities.
Look
for advertisements in
"Popular Mechanics" and other maga-
etc.
zines, for firms carrying parts such as gears, rubber motors,
There
will be a few events for commercially manufactured models, but these
are not to compete with
home made.
The usual kite events will be about the same as during the past two
The quarter mile dash with the use of reels will be used; also
years.
an eighth mile dash will be listed this year in which the string is to be
wound
in
The
"How
by hand.
"Scientific
to
make
American"
Model
of
October
14,
Aeroplane that will
1911, has an article on

fly
700
feet".
Look
it
up.
Ask at the libraries for Mr. Collin's books on "Model Aeroplanes".

There is a second book out by this author that seems very good.
Look out for ideas in the daily newspapers and at the Dominguez
meet.
Principals please post.
Respectfully,
CHAS. M. MILLER.
1.18
MANUAL TRAINING
OFFICE
April 12, 1912.
Sixth
Annual Kite Tournament

Park,
Exposition
TIME:
is
No
kites are to be
CARS
Georgia
PLACES
if
put up before one o'clock, and judging
m.
to begin at 2 p.
Vermont Heights
20,
April
at
1912.
St.,
Grand Ave. to Figueroa Junction,

Main to Figueroa Junction.
University,
or Inglewood on
Bulletin boards will be used as usual
see information,
you can't get located.
RAIN:-
If the
afternoon
is
stormy, the tournament will be post-
poned two weeks.
GIRLS
All events are open to the
girls.
ADMISSION: No admission fee, and friends invited.

ARTISTIC EVENT: All kites will be judged for artistic
must
no matter where located
BALLOONS:
fly.
their own balloon equipment.

Any wood, except the hardwoods,
Boys must bring
STICKS FOR FRAMES:

may
be used for frames, but spruce
is
best.
INTERMEDIATE AND HIGH SCHOOL BOYS:

mediate boys are
effect
and
eligible
all
high school boys
who have
All inter-
been in a
tournament, may enter from such school. Look

up some of your kite makers.
KITES All should be encouraged to make and fly a kite, even
grade school since
last
if
not for a prize.
Make
EXTRA PARTS:
some paper
NEW
if
it
a kite flying day for your school.
Boys should bring along an extra
stick
and
in case of accident to kite.
INVENTIONS:
Special
new
features will be recognized
they have real merit.
PRIZES
Ribbon badges and diplomas will be awarded
as
in
former years.
ORGANIZE: Distribute your efforts over

REGISTRATION Send in registration to
:
Ave. School on Friday.

for lack of registration.
Give names of
boys.
many events.
Mr. Miller at Grand
No
one will be kept out
MEASURING:
139
Kite lines for quarter and one-eighth mile dashes
and yacht race will be measured at
Grand Ave.
School,
Thursday and
Friday afternoons, April 18th and 19th.

Come one come all.
Respectfully,
CHAS. M. MILLER.
CHAPTER
XIX.
CONCLUSION.
Kite making and kite flying have been enjoyed for centuries in the
many years in this country, and will continue as
orient and for a good
a seasonal sport for perhaps
and useful by a
all
time.
It
can be
made more
interesting
cooperation on the part of the grown-ups.
little
be only expression of appreciation

otherwise idle fellow, or it may be
of
the
in the
effort
put
forth
It
may
by some
form of a request of teacher
to pupil for a nice kite as a gift for a third party, or
it
may be
the
arousing of school spirit for the best showing at a tournament, it might

be assistance rendered in planning a beautiful kite, and it might be a
great
other things that have not been mentioned.
many
will not catch and
Kite making
make good every
the best teachers, but
it
boy, even with the best efforts of

will go farther than any other enticement toward
bringing about good comradeship between teacher and scholar, which is

half the battle with uncertain temperaments in some boys.
need to
We
come shoulder to shoulder with the boys to help them most.

But the merits of kite making go farther than the social
it
arouses the inventive spirit in the boy,
fills
in
many
relationship,
otherwise idle
hours with good healthy sport that occupies the children out of doors.
It is not wasted time unless indulged in to too great excess, but new
developments bring about new studies of the kite problems that are as
good for the boys as problems of other subjects like arithmetic and
geometry for we must remember that boys have subject of study not
found in text-books.
Someone
told
me
not long ago that "no one could think an evil
Some one
thought while looking up".
else has written, "If the
outlook
not good, try the uplook". This latter has a greater significance than
would be generally applied to boys flying kites, but who knows what
boys are really thinking about; maybe we underestimate their abilities
is
and
inclinations.
must be held
Most boys
Our
boys often need more persistency of effort, and
to their jobs
by much attention on the part of overseers.

making against great discouragement and
will stick to kite
some will continue,

until they succeed.
for long periods,
The
string
is
working patiently and carefully
often a source of great annoyance,
140
it
CONCLUSION
snarls
141
up and some lads will cut out the hard knots, but others will
same
tackle the knotty problems and untangle them, they will do the
with knotty problems

a tangled
in life later on.
Boys do not
strife.
It
as a rule
is
patience that wins in
many
have as good feeling for color
harmony, or so the ladies think, as the girls help the boys out a little
on their color combinations on their kites. It may be the first time the
boy has had a problem of his own in color work.
;
Perhaps the
you look on and pass on?
it
looks like a
model goes at all by its

power, that boy has made a something that has overcome the force
failure.
own
Do
aeroplane does not go very far,
little
If the
of gravity to the extent of traveling transversely to its downward pull.

Recognize it, and encourage the boy. There is a difference between
flinging one so that
that travels by
credit
where
The
will travel for a short distance,
it
own
its
credit
is
power.
The former may
and releasing one

Give
be a deception.
due.
little lifting power, but the force of gravity

has been overcome, two gases of unequal density have been placed in
balloons have very
So
juxtaposition and the lighter one goes up.
in this book.
each of the subjects attempted
demand
for the briefer treatise,
met the expectancy
of
Remember it
Remember there
is
is
its
and
readers
we might
hope
this little
more than
half way.
book may have
not just the pretty kite soaring high

at the other end of the kite
BOY
for him.
CENTRAL C1RCUL
ROOM
CHILDREN'S
go on with
There has been great
in
line.
the sky.
Boost
CHAPTER XX.
BIBLIOGRAPHY OF KITES.
Prepared by M. Charlotte Casey, Los Angeles Public School Library.
How to make kites and flying gigs. Woman's H. C
31
J. H.
Adams,
Baden-Powell, B.
Baden-Powell, B. F.
S.
Baden-Powell, B.
Baldwin, T. W.
S.
F.
W.
Beasley,
Bell,
Sci.
of
97:242
to
Two
tailless kites
make
tailless kites.
kites in wireless
telegraphy;
Tetrahedral principle in
Tetrahedral principles in
Bell,
A. G.
Bell's kite experiences.
89 :408
Am.
kites
M. N.
Am.
Sci.
Sci.
Am.
Mag
14:219
Am
St.
88 :334
58 :1026
Outl
Bell
34 :1068-72
on
International kite ascensions;
F.
construction.
kite
Sci.
ill.
Sci.
Work
Am.
of the
ill.
Sci.
7:213
74:35-36
68 :152
32 :86
52:2333-4
26
Am.
(Same
Grovesnor, G. H.
69:2490
United States Weather Bureau with

63 :198
in
Tetrahedral
Nat.
kites
Geog. Mag. 11:55.)

of Alexander Graham
Sci
Kites
Henderson, C.
C.
:3
97:97-8
Nature
kites.
H.
55:22947-50
Nat. Geog.
55 :22975
Folding Malay kite;

Frankenfield, H. C.
Hunter,
18 :204
94:324
S.
J.
ill.
Am
W. The kite as a life saver at sea. Engin.

W. H. Kites in meteorological work. Nature
W. H. Scientific kites flying. Nature
W. A. Photographing from kites. Cent
W. A. Science and kite-flying. Ind
W. A. Experience in gliding flight. Eng. M
Hatton,
compared;
Sci.
kite structure.
how made.
Tailless kites,
ill.
J.
Fergusson,
63 :26264-6
Science, n.
kite structure.
Claudy, C. H. Scientific kite flying.

Clayton, H. H. Alexander Graham
Eddy,
Sci.
ill.
63 :26269-74
A. G.
Eddy,
Eddy,
48:254-6
Outing
Am
Sci.
Prof. Bell on construction of kites.
A. G.
Dines,
make them.
to
Hargrave box-kites and tetrahedral
Bell,
Dines,
48 :254
Outing
and how
Bell,
Davis,
12 :543
(Tetrahedral
Bhreagle.
Am
How
Tetrahedral
Briggs,
Beinn
:44
46:359
26 :494
Am
H. H.
Bell.
Soc. Arts
J.
McClure
Picturesque Chinese kites.

Frost King, a tetrahedral kite;
A. G.
S.
Bell,
tower
practice.
National
lifting kites.
War-kites.
L.
A. G.
Bell,
Man
Outlook
principle.)
Beard, D. C.
Beard, D. C.
and
Kites, their theory
F. S.
Bell.
Pop.
64:131-51
and pigeons. London, Soc

21:392, 529
13 1274-7
and his tetrahedral kites. World To-day
The modern kite and the government experiments.
Bell
39
Outing
142
:43
BIBLIOGRAPHY OF KITES
Investigation of the npptr nlmosphrrc hy
Arts
of
kttef.
J.
....................................................... 50 ;858
Blackw .............................. 179 :743
Liv.
The.
Kite,
tnfan.i
143
Age ............................ 259:169
M ............................................. 147 :170
Eel.
Cur. Lit ............................... 32 :607
Kite Craft. School Arts Book, Feb. 1910.

Kite excursions. Cur. Lit ........................................ 32 :607
Kite flying at sea. Science, n. s ................................... 20 :848

Kite flying in the East. Cur. Lit ................................ 30 :483-3
Kite flying over the Atlantic.
Science, n.
s .........................
23 :852
Kite flying over the ocean. Science, n. s ........................... 22 :882

Kites as used in Meteorological observances. Sci.
.............. 83:226
Kites, Cody's man-lifting.
Science, n. s ............................ 20 :64
Am
Am
........................... 96 :207
Kites in life-saving operations. Sci.
Cent ..................................... 74 :346
C. B. Kite craze.
Loomis,
Lorrimer, C. Festival of the lantern kites. Overland, n. s .............. 48:251

McAdie. Franklin's kite experience with modern apparatus. Pop. Sci.
Mo ......................................................... 51 :739
C.
Marvin,
Kite
F.
Frank.
an
as
instrument
of
meteorological
research.
Inst .............................................. 148 :241
Marvin, C. F. Kite meteograph construction and operation. Sci. Am.

S ....................................................... 49 :20166-7
Miller, C.
M.
M.
Construction
and
flying of kites.
Manual
training ....... 10:200
School Arts Book, Feb., 1910.

Cent. 32:66 .......................... 32:66
Miller, J. S. Scientific kite-flying.
............................. 6:379
McClure
C.
kite-flying.
Scientific
Moffett,
Miller, C.
Kite Craft.
Mouillard, L. R.
Musical
New
kites.
Gliding
Leis.
flight.
Cosmopol ........................... 16
:459
Hour ....................................... 37:473
observation kites invented by S. F. Cody. Sci. Am. S ......... 55:22804

Sci. Am. S ............................... 57:23524
Observation war-kites.
Sci.
Am ................................... 88 :445
Sci. Am ................ 89 :63
Results of International kite- flying contests.
W. Kites. H. Y. P. Vol ................................. 4:475

H. Y. P ............................ 5:411
Novelties in kites.
A.
W.
Roberts,
observations.
Science, n. s .......... 14:412
Rotch, A. L. Kites in meteorological
A. L. Meteorological observations at sea with kites. Science, n. s. 14:896
Roberts, A.
Rotch,
Rotch, A. L.
Rotch, A. L.
Rotch
L
Am.
sea.
Science, n. s. 18:113
Meteorological observations with kites at
Use of kites in meteorological observations. Sci. Am.
............................................... 52 :21718-20
Use of
kites for meteorological observations, at sea.
Sci.
.......................................... 91:479
144
G. P.
Serviss,
Kite principle in aerial navigation.
Am
Sci.
88:484-5
Am
Signaling with kites. Sci.

Tetrahedral kites. Cur. Lit
83 :232
37 :70
Tindal, M. Kite craze. Cur. Lit

Traction by kites. Sci. Am. S
30 :677-8
50 :2069 1
Use of flexible bridles on kites. Sci. Am

Use of kites in observation. Sci. Am. S
Varney, G. J. Kite flying in fSQ/. Pop. Sci. Mo
Walsh, G. C. Kites in war and peace. Chaut
Ward,
18:155
Meteorological results of kite work.

Experiments with kites. Cent
Wise, H. D.
Wixon, H. H.
On
Wright, L.
Zehl, E.
Science,
R. D.
Woglom.
53 :48
29:582
Kite flying in Scotland and the cyclone theory.
Ward, R. D.
n.
83 :213
55 :22823
Principles of soaring flight.

scientific kite flying.
Ho<w
to
Kite flying
Sci.
Science, n.
21:433
32 :78
Am.
60:24904
78 :576
Spec
make a gliding machine. Sci. Am.

as a fine art.
World To-day
61 :25353
13 :1016
KITES.
Nugent,
M.
Rolch, A. L.
Walker,
F.
New
Practical
them
Woglom, C. T.
less
Beard, D. C.
Beard, D. C.
and old
games and amusements
Kites.
for young
(In his Sounding the ocean of
kites
and aeroplanes
how
air, p.
to
alike
793 :111
117-174), in 551.5:13
make and work

533.6 :10
Parakites :
a treatise on the making
kites
American Boy's Handybook.

Outdoor Handybook.
and
flying of tail533.6
:3

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KITECRAFT

AND KITE TOURNAMENTS

THE MANUAL ARTS PRESS

Printed in the United States of America

The North Wind is my prancing

the kites on high,

And blow the birds about the sky,

more and more

into courses of study,

into groups for teaching

putting manual training

multiplying courses in high schools,

organization and methods.

which has resulted

viding ungraded and other

playgrounds and shops open afternoons and Saturdays,

school buildings evenings for social centers or socialized evening schools,

school for the same reason that they like

and the theory

nearly altogether of two elements, neither of

These two elements were the

the ideas and

have been worked out and carried

munity has been

stirred to sympathetic interest in the schools.

the kind of influence which causes children to

Assistant Superintendent of Schools.

Los Angeles City Schools, we

thought that so great an opportunity for

in a certain class of boys

initiated, nor did

during the spring of 1907, the

number of kinds and designs have increased to a hundred or more.

text on the subject.

for the expert.

and sixth year

and eighth for the larger

the hope of the writer that this

book may be instrumental

have become interested

furnishing a good healthy pastime sport

time being spent on a kite;

and furnishes material for string,

need for such books, and this subject

such a text, therefore, this

Los Angeles, California.

General Kite Construction

Plain Surface Kites

Suspended Figures and Appliances

Balloons and Parachutes

Propellers, Motors, Gears, and

GENERAL KITE CONSTRUCTION.

kept light and strong.

number from two

and to a great many

in the plain tailless, to sixteen in a

in a large tetrahedral kite.

tough woods are better than the hard, heavy woods.

and even white cedar will

For a three foot

uniform thickness thruout,

The framework must

a kind of long shingle of

wide and three