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How to Collect Paper Kites

Paper kites have a rich history of being used in many cultures for both amusement and ceremony. They are made from rice, tissue, Japanese paper called washi or even newspaper. Collecting paper kites is an inexpensive hobby, but it does require a little effort. Mass-produced kites, once readily available in five-and-dime stores, are found more easily than commissioned kites, hand-painted or designed-to-order ones. Certain collectors have a passion for rare or vintage kites. Others prefer aesthetic appeal. Collected paper kites can be solely for decorative display or restored for exhibit at a kite festival.

Instructions

- 1
  Research and determine the sort of paper kites you wish to collect. Narrow the choices by decades, eras or manufacturers. Familiarize yourself with names such as Hi-Flier, Top Flite and Alox, all companies that once manufactured paper kites. Choose American-made kites or those from countries with a history of kite-making, such as Japan, China, Bali or Australia. Search by category or style, such as stunt fighter, diamond, box or tetrahedral. Find a unifying theme, such as type of paper, print, design or color.
- 2
  Contact toy or paper sellers that specialize in antique, vintage and used toys. Paper kite collections don't have to be limited to just old or rare items; search in your area for an independent specialty hobby or toy store for new and one-of-a-kind kites. Check online auction sites such as Odyssey Auctions and eBay for paper kites.
- 3
  Join kite associations such as the American Kitefliers Association or state and local clubs to meet other kite aficionados and collectors. Head to the online Kitelife Magazine forum for archival and manufacturing information on paper kites, swap and trade, buying and other kite-related topics and discussions.
- 4
  Support a cause and bid for new, vintage or autographed kites to add to your collection. Look into the Kite Runner Charity Auction, which raises money for the Afghanistan Relief Organization. More local auctions include FlyNY, which is an international kite design competition with proceeds to benefit the New York Affiliate of Architecture for Humanity, or Kites for a Cure, which benefits Uniting Against Lung Cancer.
- 5
  Attend kite festivals around the world and socialize with other paper kite buffs. Take the opportunity to learn about uncommon paper kites to add to your collection or paper kite builders that are willing to design a specialty kite. Kite festivals are held in New Mexico, Washington, D.C., Bristol, England and Cape Town, South Africa, to name a few. Refer to the Kite Trade Association International website for a complete listing.

Collecting Vintage Toys