Building a pair of fighter kites

This is a pair of fighter kites I build out of Philippe Gallot's book, Fighter Kites. These are based off an Indian Square, but with a bit wider span then length. These kites were made for my son and me, and were made totally out of scraps. Both sails were made out of 1/2 oz Icarex that I had left over.

		Pile of scraps where it all started. Sorry picture did not come out good. But it is just a pile of scraps.
		The first step was to cut out all the pieces. Shown here laid out to check size. Note these are not cut to exact size since I am using an applique technique to build the kites.
		Testing the fitting to make sure everything will line up correctly.
		The spine was next measured and marked out.
		Next the width was fixed and tacked.
		Each panel was then sewn onto the side and top.
		Next each side was cut straight down the spine and made even.
		Now the center strips are sewn down. Also at this time the rest of the sail is sewn. This is done in an applique style for simplicity.
		Next the panels are trimmed, and each half is made identical.
		The spine is now sewn down the middle of the two pieces.
		And checked against the pattern.
		Checking the full sail against the pattern.
		Close up of sail detail.
		Sail re-enforcements cut out of 1.5oz Dacron.
		Re-enforcements sewn to the leading edge. These will hold the bow. They are sewn along the front, one side and part way up the other side. They provide a pocket that the bow can slip into.
		Re-enforments are sewn on the tail and nose. One top of these will be sewn a small pocket of nylon webbing to hold the spine in place.
		Final picture with all sail re-enforcements, two pieces of 1.5 oz Dacron are sewn where bridal will attach to spine. This helps to prevent sail from tearing under stress.
		Lastly the sail is hemmed with a 1/4 inch rolled hem. This also locks down the re-enforcements.
		Next the spine and bow are cut. The bow wants to be pretty flexible. The spine should be gently tapered to be slightly wider at bottom then top. Also a slight bow should be steamed into the spine just in front of the bridal tie point. This curves the sail properly and improves stability.

Drop me an email if you wish to make something like this and have any questions, I will be glad to help as best I can.