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Tetrahedron Kite

How To Make a Tetrahedral Kite With Your Troop

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Time to read 2 min

Discover how to make a 3D kite, also known as a tetrahedral kite. This fun and engaging craft is perfect for girls to enjoy both the creation process and the excitement of flying it outdoors.


Did you know? The tetrahedral kite was invented by Alexander Graham Bell. His experiments, conducted between 1895 and 1910, aimed to build a scalable kite large enough to carry a man and a motor.

You can learn how to make the tetrahedral kite through directions, pictures, and a short video at the end of the post. Let’s get started!

What you need to make a Tetrahedral Kite

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How to make craft

Step #1:

  • First, you'll need to construct the framework of the tetrahedral kite, which consists of multiple pyramids. For this, you'll need straws of equal length. The easiest way to achieve this is by cutting the straws just below the bendable section. You will need to create 4 pyramids, and each pyramid requires 6 straws, totaling 24 straws.
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Step #2:

  • To construct one pyramid, you'll need 6 straws and some thread. Start by threading the straws to form a triangle. If you're using thin thread and having trouble threading it through the straws, a wooden stick can help. 
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Step #3:

  • Continue threading the straws to form three triangles, which will then be assembled into a pyramid in the next step.
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Step #4:

  • Bring all three sides up to form the pyramid shape. 
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Step #5:

  • Lay the square of tissue paper flat on your work surface. Position the pyramid frame on top of the tissue paper.
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Step #6:
  •  Use scissors to cut around the edges of the frame. Leave a small border of excess tissue paper around all the sides – this will give you some wiggle room for gluing or taping to the frame.
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Step #7:

  • I used sticky tape, but any glue will work. As you glue each side, trim the excess tissue paper and repeat the process until both sides are covered, as shown in the photos. 
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Step #8:

  • Repeat steps 2 through 7 for all 4 pyramids of the tetrahedral kite. 
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Step #9:

  • Arrange three pyramids at the bottom, with the fourth on top. Imagine them forming a larger pyramid. Use thread to securely tie the connecting edges of all the pyramids together. This will create the final, whole tetrahedral kite structure.

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Now for the fun part! Tie a long piece of thread to the top of the tetrahedral kite. Find a nice, open space with a good breeze, and get ready to see your creation soar! 


Happy kite-makingprepare and flying!

Tips for Flying Your Tetrahedral Kite:

  • Choose the Right Day: Pick a day with steady, moderate wind. Avoid very windy or calm days.

  • Safety First: Fly your kite in an open area, away from trees, power lines, and roads.

  • Teamwork: Work together to launch the kite. One person can hold the kite while another controls the flying line.

Tetrahedral Kite Craft Video

In addition to the written instructions, be sure to check out the helpful video tutorial that accompanies this blog post. The video will show you each step in action, making the building process even smoother!

Other Fun Crafts To Try

While making a tetrahedral kite is a fantastic project, we have plenty of other engaging craft ideas to keep your troop busy and creative. Here are a few more fun and educational activities to try out:

Enjoy every minute being a leader and continue to inspire your girls!

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