The Klutz Book of Paper Airplanes

Synopsis

Making Paper Airplanes doesn't feel like science. And it's not quite art. Near as we can figure, it's magic. Paper Airplanes fly because of good, old reliable physics. And it takes a sharp eye and a clean fold to make them right. But launching a regular old piece of paper into the sky so that it soars, loops and glides - that's pure magic. We present here a complete guide to folding aerobatic amazements. The ten airplanes in this book are the best we've ever seen: esy to make, forgiving of mistakes, attractive and flight-ready under all kinds of conditions. Clear instructions and step-by-step illustrations make even the most impressive planes kid do-able, while trimming and tweaking tips give basic principles of flight instant real-world relevance. This big book comes complete with 40 sheets of flight-tested, ready-to-fold paper, printed on both sides in a variety of 20 colourful patterns, including leopard print, wood grain, hot rod flames and lose-it-on-the-lawn grass. It's everything you need to rule the skies.

About the Publisher

Klutz

Scholastic is an award-winning publisher of original children's books. Scholastic publishes more than 600 new hardcover, paperback, and novelty books each year. The list includes the phenomenally successful publishing properties Harry Potter? and Captain Underpants?, the beloved series Clifford The Big Red Dog?, Goosebumps?, The 39 Clues?, I Spy?, Bone, The Magic School Bus?, Fly Guy, Geronimo Stilton, and The Hunger Games trilogy.

Summary

Chapter 1: Basic Darts and Gliders

This chapter introduces the fundamentals of paper airplanes, including the basic dart and glider designs. It provides step-by-step instructions with clear diagrams and explains the principles of lift and drag.

Real Example: The "Simple Dart" design:
* Fold a regular sheet of paper in half lengthwise.
* Open it up and fold the top corners to meet the center crease.
* Fold the paper in half widthwise.
* Fold the wings down and tape them in place.

Chapter 2: Advanced Darts and Gliders

This chapter builds on the basics, introducing more advanced designs that enhance performance and stability. It explains concepts such as wingspan, aspect ratio, and weight distribution.

Real Example: The "T-Tail Dart" design:
* Create a basic dart as in Chapter 1.
* Cut a small strip of paper and tape it across the back of the dart, perpendicular to the wings.
* This T-tail helps stabilize the plane in flight.

Chapter 3: Stunt Planes

This chapter presents designs that perform acrobatic maneuvers, such as flying loops and rolls. It covers techniques for adjusting weight and balance to achieve desired flight characteristics.

Real Example: The "Looping Stunt Plane" design:
* Fold a square sheet of paper in half diagonally.
* Open it up and fold the top corners to meet the center crease.
* Add weight to the nose by taping a paperclip or coin.
* Toss the plane at a high angle to make it loop.

Chapter 4: Glider Planes

This chapter focuses on designs that glide for long distances, emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency and wing design. It explains the concepts of lift and angle of attack.

Real Example: The "Ultra Glider" design:
* Fold a rectangular sheet of paper in half lengthwise.
* Cut out the nose and tail sections to a pointed shape.
* Fold the wings up at a slight angle of attack.
* Adjust the weight balance by adding or removing small amounts of tape.

Chapter 5: Motorized Planes

This chapter introduces powered paper airplanes that use rubber bands or electric motors for propulsion. It covers the principles of thrust and weight management.

Real Example: The "Rubber Band Airplane" design:
* Create a basic dart as in Chapter 1.
* Attach a long rubber band to the top of the dart.
* Twist the rubber band several times to create tension.
* Release the airplane, and it will be propelled forward by the unfurling rubber band.