Hobbies And Interests
Diamond Kite
The diamond kite, also called a two-stick kite, is the design that most people recognize. It consists of two perpendicular sticks covered with a thin skin to catch the wind. The horizontal stick is usually placed more toward the top of the kite, thus giving it the "diamond" shape of its name. Diamond kites often have long light tails that improve its balance. Diamond kites are stable and, as any kid can tell you, simple to make.
Box Kite
The box kite looks exactly like its name: a box. It is constructed with four long legs connected with diagonal cross struts. It is rectangular in shape with the top and bottom thirds covered in a skin, called ribbons, and the middle third open. The box kite is known for having a high lift. A variation of the box kite has triangular wings on opposite sides. These increase stability and lift over the regular box kite.
Sled Kite
The sled kite is unique in that it has contains no framework. It flies in the same manner as a parachute, by bowing outward as it catches the wind to generate lift. It is shaped like a flat rectangle with a triangular wing on each side. A string is attached at the outside corner of each triangle. A tail can be added for balance in heavier winds. It can be made out of a number of materials, including a basic paper bag.
Delta Kite
The delta kite is a triangular shaped kite that only has a single string attachment. Delta kites are usually triangular in shape, although slight variations exist. The kite flies with one corner pointing up and often has a short tail at the tip of each bottom corner. Deltas are often decorated to make them look like airplanes or animals, with the tail of the kite painted like the animal's feet and tail. They are maneuverable kites that perform well in light winds.