How To Build A Paper Diamond Kite

Building your own kite is easy, but proper design and materials are important components to consider. Structural materials should be strong, lightweight, and durable. Balsa strips are the most frequently used, but lightweight fiberglass poles and quarter inch dowels may also be considered. This article will describe how to build a kite and will tell you the materials needed to make a diamond paper kite

The covering materials should have similar qualities. You may use tissue, wrapping paper, or newspaper. Ripstop nylon used for making tents can also be considered if it is not too heavy.

The kite line should be strong and lightweight, at least thirty pound test. Kite line is best, but mono-filiament fishing line will also work. Please do not use wire, as it conducts electricity. This could be disastrous if your kite encounters a power line, or if you fly the kite in bad weather.



There are a number of ways of getting neat kite designs. Some are available in the internet. Your local library probably has books on the subject. The Walter Foster book - Making Kites can be found at some craft and hobby store.

Making a kite is a good project for a kid’s group because it can be an educational and fun experience. The diamond kite is the easiest kite to build, and is probably the oldest design in use. To make a small diamond kite you will need the following items which are available at a hobby or craft store:

1. 2 balsa strips approx 3/16 Inch X 3/8 Inch X 36 Inch
2. Craft tissue - 20 Inch X 26 Inch
3. Kite string - 30 LB test
4 Cellophane tape or glue stick
5. Scissors and sharp hobby knife
6. Colored markers, crayons, - if you want to decorate the kite
7. Crepe paper
You may decorate the tissue paper first if you like. Use markers or crayons to put a design of your choice on the kite. Keep the design as close to the center of the paper as possible to ensure it is visible.

Cut one balsa strip to 26 inches long with the hobby knife. Cut the other one to twenty inches long. Notch both ends of both strips with the knife. Lay the balsa sticks perpendicular to each other, shorter one divided in half about about nine inches from the one end of the longer one. Lay the balsa sticks perpendicular to each other, shorter one divided in half about about nine inches from the one end of the longer one. Tie the two together firmly with string, or wire twistums. Outline the structure with some of the kite string, running the string through the notches, and pulling tight. Tie firmly! This completes the framework for the kite.

Lay tissue on a flat, clean, dry surface. Lay kite frame over the tissue and pull the corners of tissue tight, folding the edges over the string. Cut the tissue with the scissors allowing about an inch overlap. Tape, or glue with glue stick, the overlap to the tissue, pulling it tight.

Using a short end of string, form a loop on one end and place in the notch of one end on the shorter cross piece. Gently bow the piece, tying the other end of the string to the other end of the short crosspiece. Remove the twist ties holding the two structural pieces together to avoid breaking the cross piece Do not bow too much. Replace twist ties. Cut another end of string about 30 feet long. Tie one end onto the top of the kite, one end to the bottom. This is the bridle line.

Find the balance point - extend one finger and place the tow line on it. Slide the bridle line along your finger until the kite is perfectly balanced on your finger. This is where you tie the kite line. You may use the crepe paper, or long strands of colored lightweight fabric as a tail. Use a small amount in light winds, more in heavy winds.

Back to All About Kites

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Different Types Of Kites

Different Types Of Kites

There are literally hundreds of different types of kites to choose from, so how do you know what to buy? Choices can be narrowed down rather quickly if you decide what you want from the kite, and who your are buying for, if it is a gift.

Quality should be a major consideration in your decision. Cheap kites will fall apart after only one or two flying sessions. A good quality kite may last several years if it is not eaten by a tree!

Quality kites will feature ripstop nylon covering material, fiberglass or durable plastic structural material, tough connectors, and kite line suitable for the kite. The cost of a quality kite in comparison to a cheap one may seem like a lot, but the quality kite will fly better and last much longer. Many quality kites offer a warranty on the materials. Unfortunately, the warranty doesn’t cover hungry trees.

If the kite is to be a gift, the age of the recipient will determine to a large degree the type of kite purchased. Children as small as toddlers can fly a mini-kite with supevision. Mini-kites are available in three styles - diamond, delta, and box. These neat little kites are about ten inches long, and fly well.

Kids five and up have more choices. Smaller diamond kites and sky dancers are good choices. Sky dancers require no assembly aside from tying on the flight line. They are colorful, active kites in the sky.

Giant dragon kites are great gifts for kids ten and up. These kites need no assembly, and have tails ranging from eighteen to thirty feet in length. Delta kites are wonderful beginner kites because they are so easy to fly and have several variations. One variation are bird shaped kites, many of which have flapping wings.

Box kites are also a good choice for the kids in this age group if they are a little more experienced kite fliers. There are many variations of the box kite to choose from. Box kites require a little more assembly than the kites previously mentioned. Wind requirements are also higher, needing at least eight mph breeze to launch. They are very stable fliers once launched.

Variations of the box kite include cellular, geometric, and transportation kites. Cellular and geometric kites offer unique shapes and colors. Eyecatching, they are fun and easy to fly. Trasnsportation kites are box kites which are modeled after aircraft. Monoplane, bi-planes, helicopters feature turning propellers which add to the appeal. A balloon style kite has a spinning gondola hung under it. These kites are suitable for kids ten and up

Parafoils are frameless kites which sort of resemble parachutes. These sturdy kites are compact, and can be carried in a backpack. Great for picnics or a day at the beach they can be enjoyed by kids eight and up. The larger ones are suitable for ten and up.

Stunters are for older kids and adults. Beginner stunt kites can fly in as little as six mph wind, but don’t perform as many stunts as the bigger ones. There are different levels of stunt kites - beginner, intermediate, and advanced competition level. The larger stunters require at least eight mile per hour wind to fly.

Soft stunt kites are similiar to the smaller parafoils in that they have no structural material. There are many sizes available, the largest can be safely used by people eithteen and older. The giant foils can pull a person on in line skates or skies. Beach dwellers use them with boogie boards, a short version of the surfboard, to kite across the surf - an impressive sight to see.

As you can see there are a lot of diffent types of kites and all are fun to fly.

Back to All About Kites

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

How Does A Kite Fly - Kite Parts

Kites are aircraft by definition, a heavier than air craft consisting of a wood or fiberglass frame which is covered by light fabric, paper, or plastic. To this craft is attached a string, which is held by the flier on the ground. How does a kite fly? The kite achieves flight by virtue of its resistance to the wind provided by the string held firmly by the flier, and lift provided by the flow of air over and around the frame.

All kites, although different in appearance, have parts which can be identified and which are common to most kites. The parts of a kite are few and easy to learn. The nose is the top point of the kite. The center stick is the vertical support stick which determines the kites height. The bridle line is the line to which the tow, or kite line, is attached. The bridle line is attached at the nose of the kite and also at the base of the center stick. The tow line is the line held by the flier. It is attached to the bridle line at the tow point, which is the point on the bridle line at which the kite is perfectly balanced, allowing it to fly.

1. Tow Point
2. Leading Edge
3. Trailing edge
4. Bridle Line
5. Keel
6. Cross Stick
7. Nose
8. Center Stick

The launching field for your kite should be a fairly open space. Houses, trees, and towers love to eat kites. Especially avoid utility poles due to elecrocution hazard. Good places to fly kites can be found at athletic fields, beaches, and parking lots. City, county, or state parks may also have areas ideal for kite flying.

To fly the kite you will need wind. Pretty basic. But winds can vary, and kites are different in the amount of wind they will need to fly. A slight wind which can be felt on your face and cause trees to lightly rustle will be about a five mile per hour wind. Mini kites and delta kites will fly in this wind.

A gentle breeze of about six to ten miles per hour will extend flags and put tree leaves in constant motion. Now you can fly delta kites, dragon kites, and diamond kites.

When the wind begins to lift dust and small papers off the ground, it is classed a moderate breeze at about eleven to fifteen miles per hour. You may fly parafoils, large diamonds, and stunt kites.

When small waves form on inland lakes and pond, the wind is about sixteen to twenty miles per hour and is called a fresh breeze. Stunt kites, diamonds and deltas will fly in this type of wind.

At twenty-one miles per hour and above you have no business flying a kite. Find a *hole and crawl in!

Light Breeze - 0 - 5 MPH
Wind felt on face, leaves rustle
Fly - Large delta kites
Gentle Breeze - 6 - 10 MPH
Leaves and small twigs in constant motion, wind fully extends flags
Fly Delta, Dragon, Big Wing Stunter Kites
Moderate Breeze - 11 - 15MPH
Raises dust and small paper, small branches move
Fly- Diamond, Cellular, Parafoils, Soft Stunter Kites
Fresh Breeze - 16 - 20 MPH
Small leaved trees begin to sway, crested whitecaps on inland lakes
Fly Small Stunt Kites
Strong Breeze - 21 MPH +
Large branches move, umbrellas difficult to control
Kites should not be flown in this kind of wind

You don’t have to run a marathon to launch a kite. The easiest way to launch a kite is to tie it to a rocket, launch the rocket and play out the line real fast! Just kidding. If the breeze is strong enough, you can stand in place and play out the line slowly as the kite gains altitude. A good kite will go right up. Another method is to have a friend take the kite about fifty feet downwind, and hold the kite aloft. Pull the line taut while your friend lets go of the kite. Pull the line toward you hand over hand. Play out the line as the kite gains altitude.

Kites are decidedly low tech, so problems are few. Most problems seem centered around the need for a tail. Not all kites need a tail, but most kites can benefit from the stability offered by one in high winds. Tails can be for fun or decoration. Good quality kites will include a tail with the kite if one is needed.

If the kite won’t gain altitude either the wind is too feeble, the tail is too heavy, or the tow line may need to be adjusted. Move this 1/8 inch at a time, up or down, to adjust.

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob Back to All About Kites

Thomas Morse Scout Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Wing Span: 24"
Scale: 1/14
Min. Age: 12
Thomas Morse Scout

Outstanding among American aircraft produced during World War 1, the Thomas Morse Scout filled the gap between the Curtiss primary trainers and the French scout planes that American pilots were to fly in France. More than 550 planes were delivered to the signal Corps during 1917 and 1918.

This is a model of the early 1900's war bird. Can be built to fly rubber power or by using a Cox .020 engine. Kit contains scale WWI plastic wheels, full sets of gorgeous decals, plastic parts and plywood firewalls.

WING SPAN-24"
REQUIRES:
Assembly
White Glue
Dope
Workboard
Common Pins
Hobby Knife
Refer to Instructions for Other Needed Tools
Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Typhoon Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Typhoon Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Wing Span: 18"
Scale: 1/28
Min. Age: 10
Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly!

The Typhoon IB, known as the Tiffy, distinguished itself in the Battle of Normandy destroying 137 tanks and opening the way for the liberation of France and Belgium. Nos. 56 and 609 squadrons based at Duxford received their first Typhoons in 1941. In 1942 No. 609 squadron moved to Manston in surpassed Spitfires at intercepting Fw 190s. Typhoons destroyed the first two Me 210s over the British Isles. Maximum speed of 417 MPH at 20,000 feet was obtained in 7.6 minutes. Its true element was with eight 3” rockets and four 20mm cannon.

Build a Scale Rubber Powered Hawker Mk.IB Typhoon with this Balsa Construction Kit from Guillow's.

Scale Model Suitable for Ages 10 and Older.

The Typhoon IB, known as the "Tiffy", distinguished itself in the Battle of Normandy destroying 137 tanks and opening the way for the liberation of France and Belgium.

FEATURES:
A rubber band powered balsa wood model for indoor or outdoor flying. Top quality, precision-cut balsa wood and "razor sharp" die-cut balsa parts. Built light, it's a great flyer with ample wing area and effective rubber motor/propeller combination.
Cleanly formed plastic spinner.
Rubber motor band.
Plastic wheels.
Ample covering tissue.
Molded plastic propeller.
Wire for landing gear.
Large sheet of insignia.
Clear plastic bubble canopy.
Accurate scale plan and illustrated assembly instructions.
INCLUDES:
One Hawker Mk.IB Typhoon Model.
REQUIRES:
Assembly
White Glue
Dope
Workboard
Common Pins
Hobby Knife
Refer to Instructions for Other Needed Tools
SPECS:
Wingspan: 18" (45.7cm)

Back to Balsa Model Airplane Kits

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Chipmunk Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Chipmunk Balsa Model Airplane Kit
De Haviland Chipmonk
Wing Span: 17"
Scale: 1/24
Min. Age: 10

Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly!

Successor to the world famous Tiger Moth biplane, the Chipmunk was the first original design by deHaviland Canada and was built in quantity in Canada and in Great Britain for R.A.F. Primarily used as a basic trainer to provide air cadets with elementary flying instructions prior to going onto jet aircraft training. The parent Canadian company produced a total of 218 DHC-1's y of which remain in service with the R.C.A.F. One thousand fourteen were built by deHaviland in the U.K. including both military and civilian versions. As a civilian aircraft, the Chipmunk is often seen an aerobatics competition.

Build a Balsa Wood Scale Rubber Powered deHavilland DHC-1 Chipmunk with this Balsa Model Construction Kit from Guillow's.

Scale Model Suitable for Ages 10 and Older.

Successor to the world famous Tiger Moth biplane, the Chipmunk was the first original design by deHavilland Canada and was built in quantity in both Canada and Great Britain for the R.A.F. It was used primarily as a basic train er to provide air cadets with elementary flying instructions prior to going on to jet aircraft training.



FEATURES:
A rubber band powered model for indoor or outdoor flying.
Top quality, precision-cut balsa wood and "razor sharp" die-cut balsa parts.
Built light, it's a great flyer with ample wing area and effective rubber motor/propeller combination.
Cleanly formed plastic nose cowl.
Rubber motor band.
Plastic wheels.
Ample covering tissue.
Molded plastic propeller.
Wire for landing gear.
Large sheet of insignia.
Clear plastic bubble canopy.
Accurate scale plan and illustrated assembly instructions.
INCLUDES:
One deHavilland DHC-1 Chipmunk Model.
REQUIRES:
Assembly
White Glue
Dope
Workboard
Common Pins
Hobby Knife
Refer to Instructions for Other Needed Tools
SPECS:
Wingspan: 17" (43.2cm)
Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

P-51 Mustang Balsa Model Airplane Kit

P-51 Mustang Balsa Model Airplane Kit

P-51 Mustang
Wing Span: 17"
Scale: 1/25
Min. Age: 10
Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly!

The North American P-51D Mustang was probably the best all-around single seat piston-engine fighter to be used in World War 2. The first U.S.A.A.F. combat group arrived in Britain in November 1943 and from then until the end of the war, the P-51 earned an enviable reputation an a long-ranged fighter-escort for the B-17 and the B-24 bombers raiding deep in the heart of the German homeland.

TECH NOTES
Build a Scale Balsa Wood Rubber Band Powered North American P-51D Mustang with this Balsa Model Construction Kit from Guillow's.
Scale Model Suitable for Ages 10 and Older.
The North American P-51D Mustang was probably the best all-around single seat piston-engined plane to be used in WWII, earning an enviable reputation as a long-range fighter-escort for the B-17 and B-24 bombers.


FEATURES:
A rubber powered model for indoor or outdoor flying.
Top quality, precision-cut balsa wood and "razor sharp" die-cut balsa parts.
Built light, it's a great flyer with ample wing area and effective rubber motor/propeller combination.
Cleanly formed plastic spinner.
Rubber motor band.
Plastic wheels.
Ample covering tissue.
M olded plastic propeller.
Wire for landing gear.
Large sheet of insignia.
Clear plastic bubble canopy.
Accurate scale plan and illustrated assembly instructions.
INCLUDES:
One North American P-51D Mustang Model.
REQUIRES:
Assembly
White Glue
Dope
Workboard
Common Pins
Hobby Knife
Refer to Instructions for Other Needed Tools
SPECS:
Wingspan: 17" (43.2cm)
P-51 Mustang
Wing Span: 17"
Scale: 1/25
Min. Age: 10

Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly!

The North American P-51D Mustang was probably the best all-around single seat piston-engine fighter to be used in World War 2. The first U.S.A.A.F. combat group arrived in Britain in November 1943 and from then until the end of the war, the P-51 earned an enviable reputation an a long-ranged fighter-escort for the B-17 and the B-24 bombers raiding deep in the heart of the German homeland.

Back to Balsa Model Airplane Kits © 2012 Hobby Hobnob

De Haviland Chipmonk Balsa Model Airplane Kit

De Haviland Chipmonk Balsa Model Airplane Kit

De Haviland Chipmonk
Wing Span: 17"
Scale: 1/24
Min. Age: 10
Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly!
Successor to the world famous Tiger Moth biplane, the Chipmunk was the first original design by deHaviland Canada and was built in quantity in Canada and in Great Britain for R.A.F. Primarily used as a basic trainer to provide air cadets with elementary flying instructions prior to going onto jet aircraft training. The parent Canadian company produced a total of 218 DHC-1's y of which remain in service with the R.C.A.F. One thousand fourteen were built by deHaviland in the U.K. including both military and civilian versions. As a civilian aircraft, the Chipmunk is often seen an aerobatics competition.

Build a Balsa Wood Scale Rubber Powered deHavilland DHC-1 Chipmunk with this Balsa Model Construction Kit from Guillow's.

Scale Model Suitable for Ages 10 and Older.

Successor to the world famous Tiger Moth biplane, the Chipmunk was the first original design by deHavilland Canada and was built in quantity in both Canada and Great Britain for the R.A.F. It was used primarily as a basic train er to provide air cadets with elementary flying instructions prior to going on to jet aircraft training.

FEATURES:
A rubber band powered model for indoor or outdoor flying. Top quality, precision-cut balsa wood and "razor sharp" die-cut balsa parts. Built light, it's a great flyer with ample wing area and effective rubber motor/propeller combination.

Cleanly formed plastic nose cowl.
Rubber motor band.
Plastic wheels.
Ample covering tissue.
Molded plastic propeller.
Wire for landing gear.
Large sheet of insignia.
Clear plastic bubble canopy.
Accurate scale plan and illustrated assembly instructions.

INCLUDES:
One deHavilland DHC-1 Chipmunk Model.
REQUIRES:
Assembly
White Glue
Dope
Workboard
Common Pins
Hobby Knife
Refer to Instructions for Other Needed Tools
SPECS:
Wingspan: 17" (43.2cm)
Back to Balsa Model Airplane Kits

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Cessna Bird Dog Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Cessna Bird Dog Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Cessna Bird Dog
Wing Span: 18"
Scale: 1/24
Min. Age: 10
Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly!

Originally designated the L-19, The Bird Dog went into production in June, 1956 and was used during the Korean campaign as a liaison airplane by Army Field Forces to spot enemies troop concentrations, direct ground operations, carry ammunition, and evacuate wounded. Return to production in 1962 and designated the 0-1E, the Bird Dog gained fame anew as a “ FAC” airplane (forward air controller) in South Vietnam war where it was very effective in spotting and directing fire against the enemy Vietcong forces.

Build a Scale Balsa Wood Rubber Powered Cessna O-IE Bird-Dog South Vietnam " FAC" Plane (Forward Air Control) with this Balsa ModelConstruction Kit from Guillow's. Scale Model Suitable for Ages 10 and Older. The Bird Dog gained fame as a "FAC" airplane (forward air controller) in the South Vietnam war where it was very effective in spotting and directing fire against the enemy Viet Cong forces.

FEATURES:
A rubber band powered model for indoor or outdoor flying.
Top quality, precision-cut balsa wood and "razor sharp" die-cut < /font> balsa parts.
Built light, it's a great flyer with ample wing area and effective rubber motor/propeller combination.
Cleanly formed plastic nose cowl.
Rubber motor band.
Plastic wheels.
Ample covering tissue.
Molded plastic propeller.
Wire for landing gear.
Large sheet of insignia.
Acetate sheet for window areas.
Accurate scale plan and illustrated assembly instructions.
INCLUDES:
One Cessna O-IE Bird-Dog Model.
REQUIRES:
Assembly
White Glue
Dope
Workboard
Common Pins
H obby Knife
Refer to Instructions for Other Needed Tools
SPECS:
Wingspan: 18" (45.7cm)
Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly! Building and flying balsa wood model airplanes is a fascinating and fun hobby. The wood model airplanes may be flown or simply hung for display. Many enjoy leaving the paper covering off and displaying the wood framework of the plane hung from a ceiling. The wood frame is beautiful with just a coating of sealer to protect it.

Back to Balsa Model Airplane Kits

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Skyraider Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Skyraider Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Skyraider
Wing Span: 17"
Scale: 1/24
Min. Age: 10
Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly! This outstanding performer carried the firepower of a destroyer, and served for more than 20 years. Conceived in 1944, it made its first flight on March 18, 1945. ATTACK Squadron (VA 55) introduced the ADs to Korean combat on July 3, 1950; with its versatility, weight-lifting capacity (5,000 pounds on a carrier mission) and dive-bombing precision, the ADs became the 37-months-war’s most successful airplane. In Vietnam, Squadron VA 25 brought fame to the Skyraider when two ADs knocked down an attacking MIG 17.

This is an all balsa, rubber powered kit of the Douglas A1H Skyraider. First flown in 1945, this plane was successfully used in both the Korean and the Vietnam Wars.



FEATURES:
All balsa construction with balsa sticks and die-cut parts.
Rubber powered with rubber band included.
Scale markings.
Tissue covered.
INCLUDES:
All balsa parts
Cardboard markings (to be applied with clear dope)
Gray tissue for covering
Propeller
Wooden wheels
Rubber band with propeller shaft and thrust bearing to power the plane.
Landing gear wire
Clear plastic canopy
Plastic spinner and cowl
Plans with instructions and scale information
REQUIRES;
CA Glue Wax paper (we don't carry)
Clear dope (to apply tissue) Needle nose pliers (we don't carry)
T-pins
Pencil
Hobby knife Metal edge ruler
Sandpaper
COMMENTS:
The plans that come with this kit are designed for the intermediate or advanced builder (the plans assume that the modeler has built kits before). Guillows recommends that the plane should NOT be painted if the modeler plans on flying this plane (paint will make it too heavy).

Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly! Building and flying balsa wood model airplanes is a fascinating and fun hobby. The wood model airplanes may be flown or simply hung for display. Many enjoy leaving the paper covering off and displaying the wood framework of the plane hung from a ceiling. The wood frame is beautiful with just a coating of sealer to protect it.

Back to Balsa Model Airplane Kits © 2012 Hobby Hobnob

NA Trojan Balsa Model Airplane Kit

NA Trojan Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Min. Age: 10
Scale: 1/30
Wing Span: 16"
Guillows NA Trojan Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kit is fun to build and fly!
The T-28 was the first post war advanced trainer produced in quantity for training pilots for high-speed jet aircraft. Nearly 2000 of these fine trainers where built before production was ended in 1957. With advent of the war in South Vietnam, the T-28 was given a new lease on life when it proved to be effective counter insurgency aircraft against enemy forces operating in the dense tropical jungle. Flown by Vietnamese pilot, the T-28 usually also carried an American advisor-observer on these combat missions.
Build a Scale Model Balsa Wood Rubber Band Powered North American T-28D Trojan South Vietnam/USAF
Close Support Fighter Bomber with this Balsa Construction Kit from Guillow's.
Scale Model Suitable for Ages 10 and Older.

FEATURES:
A rubber band powered Balsa wood model kit for indoor or outdoor flying. Top quality, precision-cut balsa wood and "razor sharp" die-cut balsa parts. Built light, it's a great flyer with ample wing area and effective rubber motor/propeller combination.
Cleanly formed plastic nose cowl.
Rubber motor band.
Plastic wheels.
Ample covering tissue.
Molded plastic propeller.
Wire for landing gear.
Large sheet of insignia.
Clear plastic bubble canopy.
Accurate scale plan and illustrated assemlby instructions.
INCLUDES:
One Aircraft Model
REQUIRES:
Assembly
White Glue
Dope
Workboard
Common Pins
Hobby Knife
Refer to Instructions for Other Needed Tools
SPECS:
Wingspan: 16" (40.64cm)
Guillow Easy Build-By-Number rubber band powered balsa wood airplane model kits are fun to build and fly! Building and flying balsa wood model airplanes is a fascinating and fun hobby. The wood model airplanes may be flown or simply hung for display. Many enjoy leaving the paper covering off and displaying the wood framework of the plane hung from a ceiling. The wood frame is beautiful with just a coating of sealer to protect it.

Back to Balsa Model Airplane Kits © 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Building Rubber Band Powered Balsa Model Airplane Kits

Building Rubber Band Powered Balsa Model Airplane Kits

Building and flying balsa wood airplane models is an excellent way to learn about model airplane building and the basics of flying model planes. This is the method of plane building by aviation’s pioneers, and the skill is still basic that hobbyists use to build model planes. The construction techniques for wood model kits are simple, but patience is required to cut, fit, and glue the pieces into place.

The best method to learn to build these plane is to use the Build and Fly Balsa Wood Kits model series from Guillow. This is a four plane series which starts with a simple all balsa glider and proceeds to an all tissue covered rubber band powered airplane. The planes use a build by number system, and teach plane building in easy to learn steps.

The first plane in the series - the Goldwing Trainer Wood Model Kit - assembles in about two hours and is suitable for ages 8 and up. The kit includes glue and detailed instructions. The wingspan of the completed airplane is about eleven inches and will fly about 100 feet. It is an all balsa glider.

The Cadet Airplane Building Kit is the second plane in the series, and is a rubber band powered plane. The kit also includes glue and requires about four hours to build. Also suitable for ages 8 and up, the Cadet has a fourteen inch wingspan and will have flight up to 150 feet. The body is balsa, the wing is a simple tissue covered structure.

The Cloudbuster Balsa Wood Airplane is the third balsa wood airplane in the series, and teaches more complex wing construction. The wing is an airfoil, and features a dihedral angle to give the plane a more stable flight. This wood model kit is suitable for ages 8 and up, and requires about six hours to construct. Rubber band powered flight provides flights up to 175 feet. The glue is included in the kit.



The last plane in the series is the Flyboy, a twenty one inch wingspan plane. The skills obtained building the first three planes are used to build this plane. It will take about eight hours to build, and will provide the longest and best flights of the four models. It is also a rubber powered airplane.

Building stick built planes requires a minimum of tool. These include:
Building board - foam core, fiber board, ceiling tile
Wax paper
Modeling pins
Hobby knife
Pencil
Glue - white or C/A
Fine grit sandpaper
Ruler

The plan is pinned to the building board. Diagrams in the plan are used to measure the part, which are then cut with a hobby knife. Cover the plan with wax paper, and build the plane in sections right on the plan. The parts are held in place with hobby pins until the glue dries, allowing you to remove the section.

After all the sections of the plane are built, the sections are glued together, forming the plane. The framework is coated with glue, and tissue is stretched and cut over the balsa frame. When the glue is dry, the tissue is sprayed lightly with water. It tightens as it dries, forming a nice, firm skin for the airplane. The plane, after some final construction details, is now ready to fly.

Learning to build and fly these kits will help the modeler learn skills needed to build and fly the larger, more complex radio control airplane kits. Or free flight airplane can form the basis of a lifelong hobby as there are literally hundreds of these kits available to build and fly. Have fun!

Cessna Bird Dog Balsa Model Airplane Kit

NA Trojan Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Typhoon Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Thomas Morse Scout Balsa Model Airplane Kit

De Haviland Chipmonk Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Chipmunk Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Skyraider Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes

P-51 Mustang Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Skyraider

Fairchild 24

Javilin Guillows Rubber Band Powered Balsa Wood Model Airplane Building Kit

Arrow Guillows Rubber Band Powered Balsa Wood Model Airplane Building Kit

Lancer Balsa Model Airplane Kit

Messerschmidt Bf-109 Guillows Rubber Band Powered Balsa Wood Model Airplane Building Kit

Curtiss P-40 Warhawk Guillows Rubber Band Powered Balsa Wood Model Airplane Building Kit

Grumman TBF Avenger Guillows Rubber Band Powered Balsa Wood Model Airplane Building Kit

Grumman F6F Hellcat Balsa Airplane Kit Supermarine Spitfire Mk-I Balsa Model Kit

Focke-Wulf FW-190 Balsa Wood Airplane Kit

Hawker Mk-I Hurricane Balsa Airplane Kit

Nakajima A6M2-N Rufe Balsa Model Kit

Junkers JU 87-B Stuka Rubber Band Powered Balsa Wood Model Kit

F-15 Eagle Balsa Wood Model Airplane Building Kit

F-16a Fighting Falcon Guillows Balsa Wood Model Airplane Building Kit

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

-->

Flying Machine Rubber Powered Airplane

Flying Machine Rubber Powered Airplane

Flying Machine - nifty little balsa hand launched glider airplane. Fun little wood plane to fly
Wing Span: 17 Inches
Min. Age: 10

A sleek long distance flyer packaged in a shrink wrapped full color box. Plastic propeller, nose bearing and wheels. Two motor bands provided. A long time best selling rubber band plane. It has a one piece wing with a built-in dihedral for flight stability. The propeller and nose bearing are made of hi-impact plastic.

Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are a kid's favorite toy! Simple to build and fun to fly, the rubber band motors require no batteries or fuel. Just wind up the rubber band and give the Flying Machine a toss and it rides the wind.



Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are great teaching tools, too. Simple to construct, the planes can be used to teach the basic parts of an airplane as the students put it together. The rubber band powered prop can be used to give a simple demonstration of thrust and how it affects the airplane. Organize competitions to see who can fly the fastest or most distance. Encourage simple modifications to the plane to see if flight is improved or worsened.

Simple experiments can be peformed with the Flying Machine balsa wood airplane to teach avaion's basic prinicples. Moisten the wing flaps and bend gently to test the effect on flight. The same thing can be done to the rudder and aileron to test the effects here.

The Sky Flying Machine is a great companion to keep kids, young and old, occupied on trips to the park, the beach, sporting events and other outdoor activities. They are wonderful backyard toys also

For education or just plane fun, the rubber band powered balsa wood plane is hard to beat. Simple to construct and easy to fly the Flying Machine is sure to please teachers, students, parents and kids. And they will bring a smile to Grandad's face as he remembers the fun he had flying one of these toy airplanes with his grandad!

Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Stratostreak Rubber Band Powered Airplane

Stratostreak Rubber Band Powered Airplane

The Strato Streak is a Rubber Powered Balsa airplane from Guillow's.
Strato Streak - nifty little balsa hand launched glider airplane. Fun little wood plane to fly
Suitable for Ages 10 and Older.
INCLUDES:
Easy to fly and assemble!
Flies hand launched.
When fully wound, it takes off from the ground under its own power for a long extended flight.
Plastic nose bearing.
Red molded 2-blade propeller.
Landing gear with red plastic wheels.
Canopy, wing, rudder and elevator are pre-decorated with red print and graphics.
Illustrated assembly instructions.
INCLUDES:
One Balsa Motorplane
REQUIRES:
Assembly
SPECS:
Wingspan: 16-1/4" (41.28cm)



Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are a kid's favorite toy! Simple to build and fun to fly, the rubber band motors require no batteries or fuel. Just wind up the rubber band and give the Sky Streak a toss and it rides the wind.

Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are great teaching tools, too. Simple to construct, the planes can be used to teach the basic parts of an airplane as the students put it together. The rubber band powered prop can be used to give a simple demonstration of thrust and how it affects the airplane. Organize competitions to see who can fly the fastest or most distance. Encourage simple modifications to the plane to see if flight is improved or worsened.

Simple experiments can be peformed with the Sky Streak balsa wood airplane to teach avaion's basic prinicples. Moisten the wing flaps and bend gently to test the effect on flight. The same thing can be done to the rudder and aileron to test the effects here.

The Sky Streak is a great companion to keep kids, young and old, occupied on trips to the park, the beach, sporting events and other outdoor activities. They are wonderful backyard toys also!

For education or just plane fun, the rubber band powered balsa wood plane is hard to beat. Simple to construct and easy to fly the Sky Streak is sure to please teachers, students, parents and kids. And they will bring a smile to Grandad's face as he remembers the fun he had flying one of these toy airplanes with his grandad!

Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes



© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Sky Launcher Rubber Band Powered Airplane

Sky Launcher Rubber Band Powered Airplane

Sky Launcher - nifty little balsa rubber band powered airplane. Fun little balsa wood plane to fly
Wing Span: 17 Inches
Min. Age: 10

An "Action" motorplane for hours of flying fun! A new "twist" on the balsa airplane market. A 17 inch wingspan plane with a spectacular action feature - it releases a parachutist or glider while in flight, then glides back to the ground. Both the parachutist and the glider are included with the airplane.

Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are a kid's favorite toy! Simple to build and fun to fly, the rubber band motors require no batteries or fuel. Just wind up the rubber band and give the Sky Launcher a toss and it rides the wind.



Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are great teaching tools, too. Simple to construct, the planes can be used to teach the basic parts of an airplane as the students put it together. The rubber band powered prop can be used to give a simple demonstration of thrust and how it affects the airplane. Organize competitions to see who can fly the fastest or most distance. Encourage simple modifications to the plane to see if flight is improved or worsened.

Simple experiments can be peformed with the Sky Launcher balsa wood airplane to teach avaion's basic prinicples. Moisten the wing flaps and bend gently to test the effect on flight. The same thing can be done to the rudder and aileron to test the effects here.

The Sky Launcher is a great companion to keep kids, young and old, occupied on trips to the park, the beach, sporting events and other outdoor activities. They are wonderful backyard toys also!

For education or just plane fun, the rubber band powered balsa wood plane is hard to beat. Simple to construct and easy to fly the Sky Launcher is sure to please teachers, students, parents and kids. And they will bring a smile to Grandad's face as he remembers the fun he had flying one of these toy airplanes with his grandad!

Motorplane Rubber Band Powered Airplane

Motorplane - A nifty little balsa rubber band airplane. Fun little balsa wood plane to fly
Guillows rubber-powered Motorplane is an all balsa, rubber band powered glider plane that is easy to assemble.
FEATUERS:
Plane has printed wing, tail and canopy surfaces.
Easy to loop, soar, glide, and dive.
Planes can soar over 25 feet.
These are "rubber band" powered planes.
INCLUDES:
Five precut balsa pieces
One green plastic nose gear with built in prop.
One set of wire landing gear with green wheels.
One 6"rubber band
One 15-1/2" red paper tail streamer.
SPECS:
One piece wing with 12" wing span, wing has built in dihedral.
Overall length of plane 11 1/2" (with tail streamer total is 22 1/2")
REQUIRES:
No glue required, these are a slot and tab type construction.
COMMENTS:
Recommended for ages 8 and up. Tail streamer will swirl as plane flies, adding extra action.

Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are a kid's favorite toy! Simple to build and fun to fly, the rubber band motors require no batteries or fuel. Just wind up the rubber band and give the Sky Streak a toss and it rides the wind.

Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are great teaching tools, too. Simple to construct, the planes can be used to teach the basic parts of an airplane as the students put it together. The rubber band powered prop can be used to give a simple demonstration of thrust and how it affects the airplane. Organize competitions to see who can fly the fastest or most distance. Encourage simple modifications to the plane to see if flight is improved or worsened.

Simple experiments can be peformed with the Motorplane balsa wood airplane to teach avaion's basic prinicples. Moisten the wing flaps and bend gently to test the effect on flight. The same thing can be done to the rudder and aileron to test the effects here.

The Motorplane is a great companion to keep kids, young and old, occupied on trips to the park, the beach, sporting events and other outdoor activities. They are wonderful backyard toys also!

For education or just plane fun, the rubber band powered balsa wood plane is hard to beat. Simple to construct and easy to fly the Motorplane is sure to please teachers, students, parents and kids. And they will bring a smile to Grandad's face as he remembers the fun he had flying one of these toy airplanes with his grandad!

Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Stratostreak Rubber Band Powered Airplane

The Strato Streak is a Rubber Powered Balsa airplane from Guillow's.
Strato Streak - nifty little balsa hand launched glider airplane. Fun little wood plane to fly
Suitable for Ages 10 and Older.
INCLUDES:
Easy to fly and assemble!
Flies hand launched.
When fully wound, it takes off from the ground under its own power for a long extended flight.
Plastic nose bearing.
Red molded 2-blade propeller.
Landing gear with red plastic wheels.
Canopy, wing, rudder and elevator are pre-decorated with red print and graphics.
Illustrated assembly instructions.
INCLUDES:
One Balsa Motorplane
REQUIRES:
Assembly
SPECS:
Wingspan: 16-1/4" (41.28cm)



Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are a kid's favorite toy! Simple to build and fun to fly, the rubber band motors require no batteries or fuel. Just wind up the rubber band and give the Sky Streak a toss and it rides the wind.

Rubber band powered balsa wood airplanes are great teaching tools, too. Simple to construct, the planes can be used to teach the basic parts of an airplane as the students put it together. The rubber band powered prop can be used to give a simple demonstration of thrust and how it affects the airplane. Organize competitions to see who can fly the fastest or most distance. Encourage simple modifications to the plane to see if flight is improved or worsened.

Simple experiments can be peformed with the Sky Streak balsa wood airplane to teach avaion's basic prinicples. Moisten the wing flaps and bend gently to test the effect on flight. The same thing can be done to the rudder and aileron to test the effects here.

The Sky Streak is a great companion to keep kids, young and old, occupied on trips to the park, the beach, sporting events and other outdoor activities. They are wonderful backyard toys also!

For education or just plane fun, the rubber band powered balsa wood plane is hard to beat. Simple to construct and easy to fly the Sky Streak is sure to please teachers, students, parents and kids. And they will bring a smile to Grandad's face as he remembers the fun he had flying one of these toy airplanes with his grandad!

Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Balsa Starfire Glider

Balsa Starfire Glider

Guillows all balsa free flight gliders are easy to assemble.
Starfire - nifty little balsa hand launched glider airplane. Fun little wood plane to fly
FEATURES:
Plane has printed wing, tail and canopy surfaces.
Easy to loop and glide.
INCLUDES:
5 simple pieces of percut balsa.
SPECS:
One piece wing, 12" wing span with built in dihedral.
Display size is 7 3/4"x4"x14".



REQUIRES:
No tools or glue required. These planes have slot and tab construction. COMMENTS:
This is the "Big Daddy" of the easy-to-fly, hand launch gliders.
Designed for strong "baseball arms", kids love to rear back and heave this racy job. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Balsa Wood Toy Folding Wing Glider Airplane

Folding Wing - a nifty little balsa glider airplane. Fun little balsa wood plane to fly
Guillows' Folding Wing Gliders are all balsa, free flight gliders that are easy to assemble.
FEATURES:
Balsa wood plane has printed wing, tail and canopy surfaces.
Preset wing position is balanced for proper flight.
Planes can soar over 50 to 60 feet.
These are "sling launch" planes.
Wings automatically fold back until glider reaches peak altitude.
INCLUDES:
One Plastic nose piece
One Rubber Band "launcher".
Six pre-cut balsa pieces.
One front wing connector
One rear wing connector
Plastic wing holders built onto each wing
One sqare of bright orange wing tape.
SPECS:

Two piece folding wing with 12" wing span, flat wing design.
REQUIRES:
No glue required, these are a snap together type construction.
COMMENTS:
Recommended for ages 10 and up.
These gliders can soar several hundred feet if they catch a good breeze.
For education or just plane fun, the rubber band powered balsa wood plane is hard to beat. Simple to construct and easy to fly the Sky Streak is sure to please teachers, students, parents and kids. And they will bring a smile to Grandad's face as he remembers the fun he had flying one of these toy airplanes with his grandad!

Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes

© 2012 Hobby Hobnob

Eagle Balsa Wood Toy Glider Airplane

Eagle Balsa Wood Toy Glider Airplane
Eagle - nifty little balsa glider airplane. Fun little balsa wood plane to fly Guillows Eagle Gliders are all balsa, free flight gliders that are easy to assemble.
FEATURES:
Balsa wood airplanes have printed wing, tail and canopy surfaces.
Easy to loop, soar, glide, and dive.
Balsa gliders can soar over 25 feet.
These are "hand launch" planes.
Display box has vivid red, white, green, and blue coloring.
INCLUDES:
5 simple pieces of precut balsa, per plane.
SPECS:
One piece wing with 9" wing span, flat wing design.
REQUIRES:
No glue required, these are a slot and tab type construction.
Recommended for ages 6 and up.


Balsa wood airplanes are an old time favorite toy airplane as much fun for kids now as they were for us adults who remember flying them as children. Quick to assemble, balsa gliders are even easier to fly.
Balsa wood planes are a great way to teach kids about how a plane flies, as well as basic aviation principals. The toy airplanes can be made to do simple stunts by angling the wings and/or rudder. Or try moistening the rudder a bit and flexing it to see the effect on the flight of the airplane.
The Eagle balsa toy airplane is great to have at the park, at the beach, or just a neat little balsa glider for the back yard.

Back To Balsa Wood Airplanes



© 2012 Hobby Hobnob