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This kite when it is in the air, bears a striking resemblance to a glider. The fact that it is bow shaped in two directions means that a considerable degree of stability can be expected. In the absence of a tail a device is fitted which will help in directional steadiness. The wing, tail, and body, by themselves, do not provide a large sail or cover area, which is helpful in securing buoyancy and lift. To remedy this, an additional cover area is provided in the form of transparent polythene pieces, which assist in the flight of the kite, but do not obscure its distinctive shape.
The first stage is to make the framework (Fig. 16). Cut the backbone A, 2 ft. 6 in. in length from stripwood, 3/8 in. square. Make shallow grooves at the ends. Drill two holes at points which are 3/8 in. from each end, and one hole through the sides, which is 3/4 in. from the top end. The backbone is shaped to a slight curve. In order to do this, first soak the wood in water for an hour and
assist the shaping by the application of steam heat. The most convenient method is to lay the wood across a pan of hot water. Following this, the backbone may be readily bent into shape. The shape is retained by means of a bowstring threaded through the holes, 3/8 in. from the ends, pulled taut and tied securely. The depth of the curve at the centre is 1 in. Set the backbone on one side for a while for the wood to dry out.
Next, cut the crossbars, B and C, which are 2 ft. 6 in. in length. Use split cane, about 1/4 in. thick. Make shallow grooves in the ends, and also drill holes which are 1/2 in. from each end. These must now be bowed. To do this, whilst the shaping is in progress, subject the cane to dry heat, by holding it over a gas jet or electric fire. This will prevent cracking and splitting and facilitate the shaping. The depth of the curves at the centre is 21/2 in. The shape is retained by means of bowstrings as in the case of the backbone. Lay one crossbar on the other to check that the curves are the same, and make sure that the bowstrings are equally taut.
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