Fig. 26.—Cross-section of the Box-kite.
Assembling the Kite. Slip the bands over the side frames, spread the frames to their fullest extent, and hold them in this position by means of sticks sprung in temporarily between upright sticks B. Then measure the proper length for the diagonal braces C ([Fig. 26]). These sticks should be notched at their ends to fit over the sticks A, as shown in [Fig. 27], and they should be a trifle long so they will be slightly bow-shaped when put in place. In this way the frames will keep the cloth or paper bands stretched tight.
Fig. 27.—Detail of Diagonal Braces.
The notched ends of the diagonals should be lashed with thread to keep them from splitting. Lashings of thread around the frame sticks A, as shown in [Figs. 25] and [Fig. 27], will keep the ends of the braces from slipping away from the uprights B, which is the proper position for them. Bind the braces together at their centers with thread, as shown in [Figs. 24] and [26]. Coat the lashings with glue after winding them, and the thread will hold its position better.
The cloth or paper bands should be fastened to each horizontal frame stick with two tacks placed near the edges of the bands.
There are several methods of