Build your gear

3D models for printing

Here are the available plans that we know of:

• End caps: recommended model, model 2, model 3
• T-connector
• Washer
• Complete ground stick
• Ground stick heads: model 1, model 2
• Winder: model 1, model 2, model 3, model 4, model 5, model 6, model 7
• Winder integrated into handles
• Equalizer: model 1, model 2
• Revolution kite stick (with 4 mm O.D. stick)

Building magic sticks

Also known as “Sissy sticks”, these are fitted to the back of Revolution kites. They allow you to

• lay the kite down without the risk of flattening it
• reinforce the vertical rods if the bridles are sufficiently taut
• Add LEDs for night flying

Cengel kites offers plans for Revolution 1.5 kites:

The Flying smile kites store in the USA sells a version of magic sticks for around $30.

Read more about magic sticks:

• Feedback – Cengel Kites
• Discussions on the KiteLife forum
  • Link 1
  • Link 2
  • Link 3
  • Link 4
  • Link 5

Building rod socks

Vertical rods rub against the sail during flight. Over time, the sail can become damaged and develop holes. Kite flyers have come up with different solutions:

• Put a strip of mylar or dacron on the sail along the vertical bar.
• Slip a spinaker sock over the vertical bars.

Polo Kites explains how he makes its vertical bar socks.

Using LEDs for night flying

To fly at night, kites need to be at least minimally visible. Kitefliers generally use one of the following techniques:

• Adding LEDs to the sail
• Adding lights to illuminate the sail
• Add spotlights on the ground to light up the sky.

Resources or ideas

• LEDs on the leading edge – Cengel kites
• Ideas for LEDs mounted on the back of the sail – Cengel kites
• LEDs that light up the kite, called Northern light
• Testing LED panels – Riffclown

Building a set of travel rods

• Ideas for a set of rods – Cengel kites

Building your own handles

• Ideas for fluorescent handles – Cengel Kites
• Modifying your handles – Polo kites
• Handle curvature and foam position – Forum KiteLife

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Coming soon

• Making bridles
• Make sticks to prepare for team flying
• Modify lines to make lark knots easier to undo
• Making handles
• Making ground sticks