How to Make Origami Airplanes That Fly
Written: Apr 20 '04
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Origami can be fun. You can make 12 different kinds of airplanes that actually fly.
Cons: The diagrams and directions can be somewhat confusing. You will need patience to complete these.
The Bottom Line: Origami is a great craft idea, especially for those who enjoy working with their hands. I recommend this for older children and adults, but only those with patience.
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| kelly60's Full Review: Gery Hsu - How to Make Origami Airplanes That Fly |
Origami is the ancient art of paper folding. I remember as a child having an origami book that taught me how to make lots of things by folding paper into different shapes, rendering 3 dimensional objects. The book I had at the time, taught me to create animals. The book I am reviewing today teaches us How to Make Origami Airplanes That Fly.
How to Make Origami Airplanes That Fly was written by Gery Hsu. It was published by Dover Publications, Incorporated in 1992, but is no less useful today than it was then. This 91 page paperback book shows step by step instructions for creating 12 different Origami Airplanes That Fly.
This book begins with an introduction that explains the ancient art of origami, and how it is concerned with beauty. It contrasts the more recent paper airplane process, and how it is mainly concerned with functionality. It then introduces us to the idea of combining the two processes into one.
The correct paper type is explained in the introduction as well. I remember the book I had as a child coming with a special origami paper. While this special paper is recommended, the author of this book explains that a thin typing paper can also be used. It must be carefully cut into a square before beginning any of the projects in the book. He also explains the importance of accuracy. All folds must be done accurately to insure that the finished product will be both attractive and functional.
The next section of the book shows you all of the symbols that will be used in the diagrams. It is important to know what the symbols are, and will make following the directions much simpler if you know them before you begin making your first project.
Next come the actual projects. There are complete directions and diagrams for creating 12 different models. These include a space shuttle, futuristic shuttle, flying wing, delta-wing jet, fighter plane, interceptor, double tail fighter, dart plane, fighter plane with engines, futuristic fighter and two different jets.
Each of these projects has complete step by step instructions, as well as a photograph of what the finished product should look like. The instructions are in the form of diagrams using the symbols mentioned earlier to indicate when and where to fold or unfold paper, turn paper over, etc. Along with the diagrams area a few lines of text, explaining what processes need to be done.
All together there are 260 black and white diagrams and illustrations in this book. The projects are organized from the easiest to the most difficult. The author tells us that the experience gained in completing the beginning projects will be needed in creating some of the later ones.
In addition to the instructions and diagrams, there are also hints and suggestions included in the book. There is also a section at the end of the book dedicated to providing solutions to common problems.
Some of the diagrams look somewhat complicated at first, but once you learn what the symbols mean it isn't quite as bad. I will admit that my first few attempts were unsuccessful, but it could be because I was somewhat distracted at the time. After everyone else went to bed, I sat up and made another attempt. I am proud to announce that I finally got one to look good and fly. It wasn't the best, but then, I never could get my paper airplanes to fly. With a bit more practice, who knows?
My boys (10 & 11) seemed interested in looking through the book, but unsure about actually making the planes. This could be because they saw the difficulty I was having with them at first. Once they saw the finished product though, they seemed more interested in creating their own airplanes. They have not yet attempted to make one though.
Making the airplanes in this book will require a lot of patience, at least until you learn the basics. I felt that the instructions were, in many instances difficult to follow. I did much of my project by trial and error, which often turned out wrong. I thought that the instructions could have been a bit clearer, but I never was good at following directions when it came to assembling things.
I recommend this book to anyone from about 10 years on up to adults, but only if you have patience. Origami can be a fun and beautiful art, and when combined with creating actual flying models, can be pleasurable for both kids and adults. Younger children may have difficulty with this book, especially if they lack patience.
Title: How to Make Origami Airplanes That Fly
Author: Gery Hsu
Category: Toymaking - Crafts & Hobbies
ISBN: 0486273520
Published: Dover Publications
Publication Date: November 1992
Pages: 96
Binding: Paperback
Dimensions: 10.96 L x 8.42 W x 0.28 H
Price: $5.95
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Recommended:
Yes
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Member: Kelly
Location: Northern Michigan, USA
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