[Winter] Let’s make them together! A roundup of handmade kites
During the long New Year’s holiday, many parents are probably thinking, “If we’ve got the time, why not get moving and play with the kids?” In that case, how about trying a traditional game! In this article, we’ve put together ideas for making homemade kites.
We introduce not only the classic kites beloved in Japan for generations, but also ones you can make with just a plastic bag or A4 paper, and even three-dimensional kites.
Watching a kite you made yourself soar freely across the sky is such a great feeling! It’s the perfect winter activity and a lucky, festive recreation.
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[Winter] Let's make it together! Handmade Kite Roundup (1–10)
Mini Love Kite
The Mini Love Kite has an adorably heart-shaped design, and it’s very easy to make because the construction is simple.
Use thin wire to build the frame.
The key is to make the heart section large.
Once the frame is complete, glue on white and pink plastic sheeting.
You can also use colors like light blue or yellow if you prefer—they might look cute too.
Finally, attach the kite string to finish.
Adjust the attachment point of the string while checking the balance so the kite will fly properly.
gadfly kite
The abudako is one of Japan’s traditional kites, modeled after the horsefly (a member of the Tabanidae family).
It flies well even in strong winds and is known for the buzzing “bun-bun” sound it makes as it ascends.
Abudako are mainly made using soot-bamboo, Japanese cypress (hinoki), and washi paper.
The choice between soot-bamboo and cypress varies by season: soot-bamboo is used in winter, and cypress in summer.
Brown washi is used for the lower body and white washi for the head, with designs painted in ink.
There are two head designs, “Ikari” (anchor) and “Nabekaburi” (pot-helmet), so try making the head with whichever design you prefer.
Bermuda kite
The Bermudan kite made by combining bamboo is appealing because it lets you create a unique, original kite.
Start by assembling the bamboo strips at an even width to build the frame.
Once the frame is complete, string hemp twine across it.
The way you string the twine may change depending on the design you want for your kite.
Next, glue paper over the frame to match the shape formed by the twine.
It’s best to prepare paper that’s thin yet durable.
It’s also fun to change the colors and shapes to suit your taste.
Give it a try!
[Winter] Let's Make Them Together! Handmade Kite Collection (11–20)
curve yard
Here’s how to make a Karubyaa, a traditional Okinawan kite.
First, cross the vertical spar and the horizontal spar.
It’s important to fix the horizontal spar near the top of the vertical spar.
Stretch thread along both ends of the horizontal spar to apply tension, place the frame on the paper, and secure it firmly with cellophane tape or similar.
Run thread across the point where the spars cross and along the lower part of the vertical spar, adding tension there as well.
Then attach the decorations.
Add your own creative touches and make a Karubyaa that’s uniquely yours.
Bird kite
A bird kite that you fly by running—different from the high-flying kites many people imagine.
It’s perfect for children who would rather be active than quietly gaze up at the sky.
Just draw your favorite picture on colored construction paper with crayons, cut it into a bird shape, attach a string, and it’s done—so you can enjoy it from the making stage, too.
On windy days, you can also tie it up and let it flutter like a carp streamer, so there are plenty of ways to have fun.
Give it a try!
crow kite
Let’s make a crow kite—Karasu-dako—that soars across the clear New Year’s sky like a real bird.
All you need are a large black plastic bag, bamboo skewers, and some tape to hold everything together.
Spread the bag out and cut it to the specified dimensions.
When you unfold the folded sections, you’ll have a symmetrical crow shape.
Attach it to the bamboo skewers, and you’re done.
When you fly it, the wings flutter in the wind just like a real bird—it’s a lot of fun.
Give it a try with your kids over the New Year holidays!
decorative kite
Decorative kites are a recommended handmade craft you can make using origami about 15 cm long.
They’re easy to make: apply glue to a bamboo skewer, attach the origami while securing it with shoji paper, and then add kite string to finish.
Prepare another bamboo skewer and piece of origami to make a small kite as well; using them together makes it even more festive.
During the long New Year’s holidays, take advantage of the extra time and try making decorative kites.
When everyone flies these vibrant kites together, it naturally lifts your spirits!
