How to Make a Paper Airplane

Paper airplanes are the epitome of childhood simplicity and fun. Considering the fact that all one needs is a piece of paper and some relatively decent folding skills, these easy-to-make toys are a favourite with children and parents alike. And, amazingly enough, paper airplanes seem to provide hours of entertainment as well.

Making a paper airplane is rather simple, actually, and there are many different designs and way to do it. The most basic paper airplane, “the classic dart” is created in this way:

Begin with a traditional piece of 8 1/2 X 11″ paper and fold it in half.

Fold one corner down to the first fold, producing a 45 degree angle. Repeat on the other side, therefore creating an even 45 degree angle at one end of the airplane.

Again, fold down one side of the airplane to touch the bottom fold. Repeat on other side. And finally, repeat this step again, folding the paper down yet again to touch the bottom fold and do on the other side as well. When you have finished this folding (which can be done in a matter of seconds once you’re proficient!), simply lift up the wings and fly!

Another type of paper airplane, (what I discovered as “the dragon”), is created as follows:

Begin with a piece of paper and fold it in half. Then open the paper and fold in the top corners to meet the middle line.

Fold each side again, bringing the top right edge and the top left edge in to meet at the center line.

Now fold the top of the paper down, allowing the point to touch the bottom edge of the paper directly at the center.

Return to the top of the paper, again folding down each side so that the top right and left edge meet at the center.

Now fold the flap/point upward to meet the top point of the paper airplane. This step is very important, and the points need to match up. If they do not, it is essential to correct the previous folding in order to ensure the plane is in proper form.

Finally, fold the plane in half, following the already folded center line. Finish by folding each side to touch the outer edge and create wings.

There are so many options for creativity when it comes to paper airplanes. Give them a try, and you might find that even some one who is not quite a child any more still can spend many a precious minute on something so simple as a toy made out of paper!