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How to Make a Paper Airplane That Flies Far: The Blade

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How to Make a Paper Airplane That Flies Far: The Blade

Are you ready to soar to new heights with your paper airplane skills? Get ready to build the Blade, a paper airplane design known for its exceptional flight distance, often exceeding 100 feet! This guide will walk you through the steps, using detailed diagrams to help you create your own long-flying paper airplane.

Materials

  • One sheet of standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper (letter size)

Folding Instructions

  1. Step 1: Fold in Half
    Fold the paper in half lengthwise, creasing firmly.
  2. Step 2: Fold the Top Corners
    Unfold the paper. Fold the top two corners down to the center crease, making sure the edges line up with the center crease.
  3. Step 3: Fold the Top Down
    Fold the top flap down, aligning the top edge with the bottom of the folded corners.
  4. Step 4: Fold in Half Again
    Fold the paper in half lengthwise again, creasing firmly. This will create the wing shape.
  5. Step 5: Create the Nose
    Fold the top two corners of the wings down to the center crease.
  6. Step 6: Adjust the Wings
    Unfold the wings and gently bend them back slightly, creating a slight dihedral angle.
  7. Step 7: Final Adjustment
    Fold the top of the nose down slightly, creating a small flap.

Tips for Success

  • Use smooth, crisp folds for optimal flight performance.
  • Experiment with different paper types and weights to find what works best for you.
  • Practice your launch technique. A smooth, level throw with a slight upward angle will help your airplane fly farther.
  • Have fun and enjoy the process! Paper airplanes are a great way to unleash your creativity and explore the principles of aerodynamics.

Troubleshooting

If your Blade isn’t flying as far as you’d like, try the following adjustments:

  • Increase the dihedral angle of the wings by bending them back slightly more.
  • Reduce the size of the nose flap to create a more streamlined shape.
  • Adjust the angle of your launch to find the optimal trajectory.

With a little practice and experimentation, you’ll be soaring through the air with your long-flying Blade paper airplane in no time!

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