Soaring High: A Comprehensive Guide to Making Traditional Japanese Kites

Japanese kites, known as tako (凧), are more than just playthings; they are vibrant works of art steeped in history and tradition. These kites, often adorned with intricate designs and bold colors, have been flown in Japan for centuries, representing celebrations, good luck, and even spiritual connections. Unlike many Western kites, Japanese kites boast a diverse range of shapes and styles, each with its own unique flying characteristics and cultural significance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll embark on a journey to understand the art of crafting several popular types of Japanese kites, providing detailed steps and instructions to help you create your own soaring masterpieces. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, this guide will empower you to experience the joy of making and flying these beautiful kites.

Understanding the World of Japanese Kites

Before we delve into the crafting process, it’s helpful to understand the basics of Japanese kite types and their distinct characteristics:

• Edo-dako (江戸凧): These are the classic square-shaped kites, often painted with bold depictions of samurai warriors, mythical creatures, or kabuki actors. They are known for their stability and powerful lift.
• Rokaku-dako (六角凧): This hexagonal kite is known for its agility and maneuverability, making it popular for kite fighting. It’s a bit more challenging to build but incredibly rewarding to fly.
• Sode-dako (袖凧): These rectangular ‘sleeve’ kites are characterized by their elongated shape and often have multiple panels, sometimes featuring elaborate calligraphy or patterns. They are known for their graceful flight.
• Yatsude-dako (八手凧): This elaborate kite is in the shape of a hand with eight fingers, often adorned with symbolic colors and details. They are less common than the previous types, but visually stunning.

For this guide, we will focus on creating the Edo-dako and the Rokaku-dako, as they represent the classic and slightly more advanced techniques, respectively.

Materials You’ll Need

Before starting, gather the necessary materials:

• Bamboo Skewers or Slats: These will form the frame of your kite. Look for straight, lightweight bamboo.
• Japanese Paper (Washi): This traditional paper is strong, lightweight, and perfect for kite making. Tissue paper can be used as an alternative, but washi will give the most authentic results.
• Strong String or Kite Line: For securing the frame and flying your kite. Choose a durable, non-stretchy line.
• Craft Glue or Rice Paste: For attaching the paper to the frame. Rice paste (nori) is the traditional adhesive but craft glue is suitable as well.
• Scissors or a Craft Knife: For cutting paper and bamboo.
• Ruler or Measuring Tape: For precise measurements.
• Pencil: For marking measurements and designs.
• Paint, Markers, or Inks: For decorating your kite. Traditional Japanese paint or ink is a nice touch.
• Sandpaper: For smoothing any rough edges on the bamboo.
• Weight (Optional): A small coin or piece of metal to be attached to the bottom of the kite for stability.

Part 1: Making an Edo-dako (Square Kite)

The Edo-dako is a great starting point for learning about Japanese kite making. Here’s how to create one:

Step 1: Preparing the Frame

1. Determine the Size: Decide on the desired size of your kite. A good starting point is a square with sides of approximately 50-60 cm.
2. Cut the Vertical Spar: Measure and cut a bamboo skewer or slat to the desired length of the side of your square. This will be the vertical spar.
3. Cut the Horizontal Spar: Cut another bamboo skewer to the same length as the vertical spar.
4. Mark the Spars: On the vertical spar, find and mark the halfway point. On the horizontal spar, mark the position where it should cross the vertical spar. Usually this is about 1/3 from the top of the vertical spar.
5. Join the Spars: Carefully position the horizontal spar over the vertical spar at the marked points. Use string to tie the horizontal spar to the vertical spar using a tight lashing (X pattern wrapping). Apply glue over the string to secure the joint. Ensure that the two spars create a firm cross shape and the joint is sturdy.
6. Diagonal Support Spars: Cut two bamboo pieces to measure the diagonal length of your kite. These will serve as diagonal support spars. The lengths will likely be similar to the vertical and horizontal spars. Glue these to the four corners of your kite frame. These spars greatly add to the rigidity of the kite. Apply the same lashing and glue technique as before.
7. Allow to Dry: Let the glue dry completely before moving on to the next step. This ensures a strong, stable frame.

Step 2: Applying the Paper

1. Cut the Paper: Lay your kite frame on top of your washi paper and trace the outer edges, adding an extra 2-3 cm border on all sides. This border is crucial for folding over the frame. Cut out the paper along this outer tracing line.
2. Glue the Paper: Apply a thin layer of glue along the outer edges of the kite frame.
3. Fold the Paper: Carefully align the paper over the frame, folding the extra border over the glued edges of the frame. Press gently to ensure the paper adheres evenly to the frame.
4. Reinforce the Edges: Apply more glue to the folded over paper and gently press down. You can use strips of paper to further reinforce the edges.
5. Allow to Dry: Allow the glue to dry completely. Make sure the paper is taut and firmly attached to the frame.

Step 3: Adding the Bridle and Flying Line

1. Creating the Bridle Points: Punch small holes at the top of the vertical spar where it intersects with the horizontal spar, and at the two corners at the ends of the horizontal spar.
2. Attach the Bridle Line: Cut three pieces of string. Tie one piece of string to the first hole at the intersection of the spars, and the other two pieces to the remaining two holes. Bring the ends of the three strings together and tie them in a single knot. This creates the bridle. The length of these strings may need to be adjusted in later steps for optimal kite flight.
3. Attach the Flying Line: Tie the flying line to the bridle’s knot. Make sure the flying line is secure.

Step 4: Decoration

1. Plan Your Design: Research traditional Edo-dako designs or create your own. Consider using symbols, patterns, or bold colors. Popular choices include samurai warriors, mythical creatures, or calligraphy.
2. Paint or Draw: Use paint, markers, or inks to bring your design to life. Be creative and have fun! Ensure that the paint and ink are completely dry before flying your kite.
3. Add Details: Add extra details and embellishments as desired.

Step 5: Final Touches (Optional)

• Add a Tail: For added stability, you can add a paper or ribbon tail to the bottom of your kite. Tie a lightweight strip of fabric or crepe paper to the bottom of the vertical spar.
• Add a Weight: For added stability, you can add a weight like a small coin tied to the bottom of the kite

Part 2: Making a Rokaku-dako (Hexagonal Kite)

The Rokaku-dako is a bit more challenging to build but offers greater maneuverability and agility in the air. Here’s how to construct one:

Step 1: Preparing the Frame

1. Determine the Size: Decide on the desired size of your kite. A good starting point is a hexagon with sides of approximately 30-40 cm each. This means the distance from one point to the opposite point will be approximately 60-80 cm.
2. Cut the Spine: Measure and cut a bamboo skewer to approximately the total length of the height of your hexagon. This will be your spine.
3. Cut the Struts: Cut two bamboo skewers each approximately the length of your hexagon width, from point to point (the distance that forms 120 degrees from the vertical spine). These will be your horizontal struts.
4. Mark the Spine: Mark the center point on the spine. This is where the two struts will cross the spine.
5. Assemble the Frame: Place the two horizontal struts perpendicular to the spine, with the center of the struts crossing the mark of the vertical spine. Use string to lash (X pattern) the two struts to the spine. Ensure that the frame is sturdy and the struts are firmly attached.
6. Glue and Reinforce: Apply a layer of glue over the lashed strings. Let the glue dry completely.
7. Add additional spars: Cut four spars to measure the lengths from the ends of the horizontal spars to the point at the top and bottom of the vertical spar. These four spars will attach to the hexagon corner points and the ends of the horizontal struts. Lash these supports to the frame and use glue to secure the joints. These supports ensure that the paper will form a proper taut hexagon shape.
8. Allow to Dry: Ensure the frame is completely dry and secure before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Applying the Paper

1. Cut the Paper: Lay your kite frame on your paper and trace around the perimeter, leaving an extra 2-3 cm border on all sides. Cut out the paper along this line.
2. Glue the Paper: Apply a thin layer of glue along the outer edges of the kite frame.
3. Fold the Paper: Carefully align the paper over the frame, folding the extra border over the glued edges. Press gently to ensure the paper adheres evenly to the frame.
4. Reinforce the Edges: Apply more glue to the folded over paper and gently press down. You can use strips of paper to further reinforce the edges.
5. Allow to Dry: Let the glue dry completely. Make sure the paper is taut and firmly attached to the frame.

Step 3: Adding the Bridle and Flying Line

1. Creating the Bridle Points: Punch small holes at the top point of the vertical spar, and the two points along the spine where the horizontal struts meet. This will create three anchor points for the bridle.
2. Attach the Bridle Line: Cut three pieces of string. Tie one piece of string to the top hole at the top point of the kite, and the other two pieces to the remaining two holes. Bring the ends of the three strings together and tie them in a single knot. This creates the bridle. The length of these strings may need to be adjusted in later steps for optimal kite flight. The three points should be balanced to allow for even pull when the kite is in flight.
3. Attach the Flying Line: Tie the flying line to the bridle knot. Make sure the flying line is secure.

Step 4: Decoration

1. Plan Your Design: Research traditional Rokaku-dako designs or create your own. Think about bold patterns, or designs that complement the hexagonal shape.
2. Paint or Draw: Use paint, markers, or inks to bring your design to life.
3. Add Details: Add extra details and embellishments as desired. Ensure the ink and paint is fully dried before flight.

Step 5: Final Touches (Optional)

• Add a Tail: Though not always present, a small tail can add stability, and you may add a strip of paper or ribbon to the bottom of your kite.
• Adjust the Bridle: For Rokaku-dako, you will likely need to adjust the bridle. If the kite pulls up too much, you’ll need to move the bridle knot up a little, and if the kite dives or is unstable, you will need to move it slightly downwards. Experiment until you find the perfect adjustment.

Tips for Flying Your Japanese Kite

• Choose the Right Conditions: Fly your kite in a moderate, steady wind. Avoid very strong winds or calm, still air.
• Find an Open Space: Select a large, open area with no trees, buildings, or power lines.
• Launch Carefully: Gently toss your kite into the wind as you let out the line. Avoid sudden jerks.
• Adjust the Bridle: If your kite doesn’t fly properly, you may need to adjust the bridle line position.
• Be Patient: Kite flying can take some practice. Be patient and have fun!
• Store Properly: When not in use, store your kite in a cool, dry place.

The Cultural Significance of Japanese Kites

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Japanese kites hold deep cultural significance. They are often associated with:

• Festivals: Kites play a prominent role in many Japanese festivals, with kite-flying competitions and displays being popular events.
• Celebrations: Kites are often flown to celebrate special occasions, such as the birth of a child or a wedding.
• Spiritual Beliefs: In some traditions, kites are believed to carry prayers and messages to the heavens.
• Art and Craftsmanship: Japanese kites are considered works of art, showcasing traditional techniques and designs.

Conclusion

Making and flying Japanese kites is a rewarding experience that connects you with a rich cultural tradition. With patience, creativity, and these detailed instructions, you can create your own soaring works of art. Remember that practice makes perfect, and don’t be discouraged if your first attempts don’t immediately fly as you’d hoped. Keep experimenting, and you’ll soon be enjoying the beauty and joy of flying your very own handcrafted Japanese kite. Happy flying!