Blog

Introducing the Paper Plane Launcher: A Fun Toy for Kids

Have you ever wanted to send your paper planes soaring across the room with a powerful launch? Look no further! We have a simple yet exciting project for you to try – the Paper Plane Launcher. With just a file folder, a piece of paper, and a rubber band, you can create the coolest paper airplane launcher that will provide hours of fun for kids of all ages.

Easy and Affordable Fun

Our paper airplane launcher is not only a toy but also an engineering challenge for kids. It encourages creativity, problem-solving, and scientific exploration. You can easily turn it into a science experiment by testing different paper plane sizes, rubber band thicknesses, or launcher lengths. You can also experiment with the trajectory of the launch to observe how it affects the distance the plane travels.

How It Works

The file folder paper airplane launcher propels the plane forward using the tension of a rubber band. By pulling the sides of the launcher to release the rubber band, you can send your paper plane soaring through the air. It’s simple, yet it brings immense joy and excitement.

Supplies Needed

To create your own paper airplane launcher, gather the following supplies:

  • File folder
  • Origami paper
  • Rubber band
  • Stapler
  • Ruler
  • Pencil
  • Scissors

We recommend using square origami paper for folding the paper airplanes, as it is lightweight and travels farther with the launcher. However, you can also use regular copy paper if that’s what you have available.

Let’s Get Started

  1. Begin by marking a rectangle on the bottom of your file folder, ensuring that the folded edge is part of the rectangle.
  2. Make the rectangle 4.5 inches x 7 inches. However, keep in mind that the size doesn’t need to be exact for the launcher to work effectively.
  3. Cut out the rectangle, being careful not to cut the folded edge. Your rectangle should still open like a folder.
  4. Fold one side of the folder down to the folded edge, and repeat this step on the other side.
  5. Fold each side back up to the top and crease well. The finished product should resemble a folder with a triangular shape at the top.
  6. Open up your file folder and use a stapler to attach a small rubber band near one end of the file folder.
  7. Now, let’s make a paper airplane! Fold a classic dart plane using a piece of square origami paper or any other paper of your choice.
  8. It’s time to load the airplane launcher. Stretch the rubber band around the front of the launcher and pull it towards the back.
  9. Pull the rubber band around the back end of the launcher, making sure it sits close to the top edge.
  10. Slide the paper airplane into the slot formed by the top edges of the file folder, ensuring it sits all the way back against the rubber band.
  11. Finally, pull outward on the sides of the launcher to free the rubber band and launch the plane forward!

Paper Plane Launcher

Make It a Science Experiment

You can take your paper airplane launcher project a step further by turning it into a science experiment. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Compare the distance traveled by planes made with origami paper versus copy paper.
  • Launch a plane from a horizontal angle and compare it to launching a plane pointed upward.
  • Test the effects of using a thicker rubber band versus a thinner one.

To ensure accurate results, perform each test at least five times and average the distances. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to practice their math skills while having fun.

Quill And Fox – Your Go-To Brand For Creative Fun

If you’re looking for more STEM challenge ideas, you’ve come to the right place. Check out Quill And Fox for over 30 STEM challenges using simple or recycled materials. From popsicle stick gears to play dough marble runs, you’ll find endless possibilities to fuel your child’s curiosity and imagination.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your file folder, paper, and rubber band, and let the paper plane launching adventure begin! It’s time to have some fun and watch your creations soar through the air. Quill And Fox is here to inspire you on your journey of discovery and creativity. Enjoy!