How to Make a Parachute

Just like a real jump!
Just like a real jump!

Make a simple mini toy parachute out of a polythene shopping bag. It is easy, cheap and a useful way of cutting down on the pile of plastic bags in the house. You will also need to make your own person to sit in the parachute, or you might have a plastic model to substitute instead.





Steps   

  1. Cut out a square shape from a polythene bag.
  2. Make some small holes at each edge. Make four holes in all.
  3. Tie string of the same length to each one of the holes.
  4. Tie the other free ends to a paper clip.
  5. Make a person out of modelling clay (plasticine).
  6. Place the person onto the paper clip.
  7. Cut out a small hole about 1 x 1 cm in the middle of the parachute.
  8. Take hold of the the polythene part. Hold it up highest you can go or you can climb onto a chair or small wall and let go of it.
  9. Watch your parachute and passenger glide down the ground.
  10. Throw your parachute as many as possible. If it breaks, it is easy to make a new one.


Tips   

  • If you can, use stretchy polythene bags, they are better than any other material.


Warnings   

  • Be careful not to cut yourself making the parachute.
  • Never put a polythene bag on your face; you might die of suffocation.
  • .


Things You'll Need   

  • Polythene bag
  • Scissors
  • Modelling clay (or a plastic person figurine instead)
  • String
  • Paper clip