How to Make Chinese Kites
Immerse yourself in the history of Chinese kites then it is time to learn how to make a kite now! The making process is considered an art form in China and has been passed down for generations. Follow the easy steps below and make a Chinese kite with children or parents, flying a handmade item on the end of string in warm spring days sounds cool!
Chinese kite making involves using bamboo and silk to make incredible kites that can range in size from a postcard to kites many feet long and wide. The basic materials to make Chines kite are: Ribbon, Paint Brushes, Kite or bridle string, Silk or paper, Paint, Bamboo or wooden rods.
Step-by-step Guide:
1. After deciding the shape of the kite, select straight dried bamboo sticks to create the frame of the item. Please set the knots as far as possible.
2. Butcher Paper and treated silk is used to create the frame, cutting them into desired shapes and sizes. Decorate the Butcher paper first before frame it to avoid tears and wrinkles.
3. Attach the silk/paper to the frame by looping the fabric over the bamboo and using a zigzag stitch. Paper or plastic can be glued to the frame.
4. Link the Chinese kite sections using kite or bridle string to connect the bridles together.
5. Decorate the kite by using paint or fabric makers, anyway, just decorate it with your imaginations.
6. Add more flare to your Chinese kite. Produce several dragon or centipede rings at once by coiling a 5 cm. piece of bamboo into a pot of the desired diameter. The ends should overlap about 2 cm. Fill the pot with water just below the bamboo. Cover the pot and boil for about 30 minutes. Let the bamboo cool and cut into thin strips. Glue the overlapping ends.
7. The last step is to flying the kite outdoors and adjusts the whole set according to the wind. Try to improve in the process of flying and have more fun!
Where to Learn to Make Kite in China?
Beijing, the capital of China, where many old crafts are still kept, is the best place to learn to make Chinese kite. We can arrange you a Kite making class at the hutong alleyways.
Weifang in Shandong Province is reputed as the hometown of Chinese kite, where you can dive in the history and culture of kite at the museum, and learn the different making methods of kite, and even join in the Chinese Kite Festival.