Sport Kite Making

[rcornwell]

Not sure where to ask this question. Back in the 90's I use to run Sky Vision Kites. I've been out of kite flying and making for a while. I am wondering what are best materials to use for modern Sport kites? If kite makers out there are willing to talk to me about design decisions it would be a big help.

[riffclown]

I use Icarex for fabric pretty much exclusively. I can't imagine using anything else routinely. Rods are far more subject to the design of the kite. you may want fiberglass in some cases and wrapped Carbon Fiber in others.  I'll also quantify my statement  with I only make Quadline Kites and those are all flat sails.

[rcornwell]

I used to make my kites out of 1/2 oz Icarex (I guess PC31 now), and either 2300 protruded or SkyShark 2P/5P rods. But the high cost of these makes me wonder if maybe some made with 3/4 Nylon might be ok. You can email directly if you want to go into more details.

[riffclown]

Everything I do is Icarex (PC31) and SkyShark, P2-x, P3-x, P200, p-300 or in a few case even P-400.. I don't use Fiberglass for Quads as it does not meet my need for stiffness/springiness. I buy all in bulk when available.. I have also used the P-200 and P-400 Camo rods when they were on closeout to decrease overall cost.

 

[riffclown]

I also bought a LOT of the Blue Polymax when it was on sale to play with for designs and such.

[rcornwell]

I am thinking P-100 is the equivalent to the old SkyShark 5P's. I have posted some pictures of my kites here, I can post more if there is interest.

What I am wondering is how well high end stunt kites would sell these days? With costs of materials I could not compete with many of the cheap kites on the market. My kites are mostly 8ft full sized kites. I am thinking of offering them in only Wrapped Graphite, because the cost is about same as protruded.

[riffclown]

only you can answer that. I'm still making mine but haven't sold too many lately. That's partly my fault for not getting out, flying and marketing them.

(moderation note. moved to kite making)

[frob]

On 10/17/2024 at 2:22 PM, rcornwell said:

What I am wondering is how well high end stunt kites would sell these days?

You've got a couple good kite stores within 150 miles or so, including Kitty Hawk that runs a chain. Call and ask if they want more.

Based on how many shops have closed, how many makers keep dropping off or moving to custom-only builds, plus the move of people in general away from kites and outdoors activities, demand isn't going to be enormous.

Building amazing products and building brand awareness will both be essential if you're trying to enter the market.

[rcornwell]

Thank you. I have done much web searching and I believe I can sell my kites at a reasonable price. So I have decided to reopen in January. I will be offering basically the same kites I used to offer updated to new material and some new sail patterns.

I don't expect to make a lot, just enough to have an excuse to go to festivals.

Contact me directly if you want more information.