How to Build Box Kites

Box kites have a rectangular shape and do not have a tail. Creating these box kites with your kids is a great idea for an afternoon of fun. For this project you will need two 51 inch-by-12-inch sheets of cloth, four 3/8-by-40-inch flat sticks, four 1/4-inch-by-1/2-inch flat sticks, kite string, glue, a fisherman swivel and one-one-inch metal ring.

How to Build Box Kites:

Step 1: Place the kite sheets parallel to each other at least 16 inches apart on the ground.

Step 2: Measure and mark four 12-inch spaces on each cloth sheet.

Step 3: Cut notches into both ends of the top and bottom of the short sticks.

Step 4: Cut deep groves across the middle of each short stick. One stick should measure 1/2 inch and the other will measure 1/8 inch.

Step 5: Connect the short sticks together to form X's and wind string around the joist to secure them.

Step 6: Lay the long sticks across the sheets onto the marks you made earlier.

Step 7: Glue the narrow edge of the sticks onto the marks. Allow it to dry completely.

Step 8: Apply glue along the 3-inch border. Fold the flap onto the other end to cover the border.

Step 9: Insert the X's into the center of the tubes. Fit the notches around each long stick.

Step 10: Tie string onto the bottom of the long sticks.

Step 11: Tie string onto the long sticks to secure them to the center of the upper box. This will connect the long sticks and the short sticks.

Step 12: Tie the strings to the metal ring and double knot each tied section.

Step 13: Connect the ring to a swivel. Tie flying sting to the swivel and ensure all knots are tight and secure.