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How to Make a RAM Air Kite

The RAM kite is known as a sled or air kite. A sled kite differs from the traditional model because it has no wooden dowels for support. Instead, the sled kite "slides" through the air supported by the wind. Two lines pull the fabric against the wind and keep the kite aloft. This gives the kite more maneuverability than traditional kites. The RAM sled kite has no wooden supports, but does have fabric baffles on the back that fill with air. These baffles support the kite and add to the lift of the craft.

Things You'll Need

Ripstop nylon fabric
Scissors
Grommets, 2
Hammer
2 rolls of nylon kite string

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the body of the kite. The body of the kite is an irregular six-sided figure. The top is 26 inches across. Two 26-inch sides slope down from the top at an angle so that the entire width is 77 inches. This is the widest point of the kite. The bottom measurement is 47 inches long. Two 44 1/2-inch sides connect with the ends of the angled 26-inch top slopes. From the center bottom to the center top measures 50 inches.
- 2
  Measure 3 inches from one of the 44 1/2-inch sides at the bottom of the kite and mark. Measure 11 inches along the sloped top side and mark. Draw a line connecting the two marks. Mark this line "B." The line will be angled, but parallel to the 44 1/2-inch side. Measure 10 1/2 inches from the side at the bottom. Draw a line from this mark to the corner where the 26-inch slope meets the top. Mark this line "A." Repeat on the other side of the kite body. Hem all six sides of the kite body.
- 3
  Cut two fabric baffles. The baffles are four sided pieces that measure 30 inches at the top and 16 1/2 inches at the bottom. One side is longer, measuring 50 inches, while the shorter side is 45 inches. Hem the top and bottom.
- 4
  Mach the longer side of the baffle to the line marked "A" and stitch into place. Match the shorter side to the line marked "B" and sew down. The baffles will be loose so that they can fill with air.
- 5
  Install the grommet 1 inch from the top and side on both sides at the widest point of the kite. Use a hammer to spread the male portion and secure the grommet. Tie a roll of nylon string to each grommet.

Backyard Toys