Long-flying glider

A glider whose rolled leading edge moves the center of gravity forward. Experiment with wing angle and weight.

Why this level: Only simple folds, but the band is folded three times and both sides must match to fly well.

You need: 1 sheet of A4 paper, A few paper clips for experiments (optional)

Preview Preview: checked on screen; real-paper verification is in progress.

Steps at a glance

1. Fold in half lengthwise and unfold
Colored side up, tall. Fold in half lengthwise and unfold.
2. Fold the top edge down 5 cm
Fold the top edge down by 5 cm (about one sixth of the height).
3. Roll the band down twice more
Fold the band down onto its own edge, then once more, to make a thick leading edge.
4. Turn over
Turn the paper over.
5. Fold the top corners to the center
Fold the two top corners to the center line to make a pointed nose.
6. Turn back over
Turn the paper back over.
7. Fold in half
Fold the right half over onto the left half.
8. Fold the wings
Fold the front wing along the edge of the thick band. Fold the back wing behind along the same line. The body stays very thin.
9. Open the wings
Open the wings almost level, with a shallow upward V. Ready to fly!
10. Fold up the winglets
Fold 1.5 cm of each wingtip straight up. Make both the same and you are done!