To make a simple, effective paper plane, follow these steps:
- Start with a standard sheet of paper (A4 or 8.5 x 11 inches).
- Fold the paper in half lengthwise (hot dog style) and then unfold it to create a center crease.
- Fold the top two corners inward so they meet at the center crease, forming a triangle at the top.
- Fold the pointed tip of the triangle down to meet the bottom edge of the folded corners, creating a smaller triangle.
- Fold the top corners in again so the edges meet at the center crease, locking the folds in place.
- Fold the plane in half along the original center crease, with all folds on the inside.
- Create the wings by folding down each side from the top edge to the bottom edge, making sure both wings are symmetrical.
- Optionally, slightly curve the back edges of the wings upwards to help the plane fly better.
This method is easy and produces a plane that can fly well if folded neatly and symmetrically
. For a more advanced paper plane that flies over 100 feet, you can follow the "Mystic" design, which involves folding triangles to the center, locking the nose, and making winglets. This design is also easy to fold and locks together at the nose for better aerodynamics
. Video tutorials and printable plans are available on sites like Fold 'N Fly for more designs and detailed instructions
. In summary, the key to a good paper plane is precise, symmetrical folds and adjusting wing angles for stable flight.
