Carp Kite

The carp kite is a fish craft put into action by the power of the wind. You can draw a carp on a kite to fly on Children's Day -- May 5 -- or any other special day you want.

What You'll Need:

  • Wire coat hanger
  • Tissue paper
  • Tape
  • Construction paper
  • Scissors
  • Markers
  • Spool of string

    Carp Kite Fish Craft
    Make fish fly high with the Carp Kite Fish Craft!


How to Make Carp Kite Craft:

Step 1: Bend a coat hanger into a diamond shape, making sure to bend the hook part so it won't poke anyone.

Step 2: Cover the wire by wrapping it with a layer of tissue paper. Tape the ends of the tissue paper to secure it.

Step 3: Cut a diamond shape out of construction paper that is a little larger than the coat-hanger diamond. Draw the carp with the markers.

Step 4: Tape the paper to the coat hanger so that the diamond-shape opening is covered. Poke a hole at each of the corners of the diamond.

Step 5: Cut three 20-inch lengths of string. Tie one each to the top and side holes. Tie one end of a spool of string to the bottom hole to make the flying string.

Step 6: Tie the free ends of the top and side strings to the flying string near where it meets the kite. This will help your kite fly. Take your carp out and run!

Carp Kites in Japan
In Japan, carp kites are flown during a festival called Children's Day. The Japanese draw carp on their kites because they believe carp are symbols of strength and perseverance since they swim vigorously upstream against strong currents. The Japanese hope that their children will inherit these characteristics.


Next, it's time to spruce up some tired white clothes with brightly colored fish.

For more crafty fun and animal-related activities: