How to Make a Toy Parachute Step by Step
Making a toy parachute is a fun activity you can try at home without needing to buy special supplies. It’s gives kids a chance to see how everyday materials can behave in surprising ways. They get to create something they can actually throw in the air and test. And that kind of project usually brings lots of excitement. DIYDONTSHY supports projects that encourage curiosity through doing instead of watching.
Contents
How Parachutes Work
Parachutes slow down falling objects. They do this by using air resistance. When something falls, the air underneath pushes upward a bit. A parachute spreads out wide, so it catches more of that upward push.
The Concept Of Air Resistance
Air resistance is the push from the air when something moves downward. A parachute increases that push simply by being wide.
Why Parachutes Fall Slowly
A larger canopy meets more air. More air contact means more slowing. That’s why parachutes that are bigger tend to land softly.
Materials You Can Use To Make Toy Parachutes
There isn’t one “correct” material. Almost anything light and flexible can work.
Fabric Options
Fabric like cotton scraps or thin lining cloth can create steady movement. Fabric holds its shape well and lasts through repeated tests.
Paper Parachutes
Paper works nicely for indoor setups. Tissue paper floats slower, while printer paper moves quicker because it’s heavier.
Plastic Bag Parachutes
Grocery bags, shopping bags, or produce bags make excellent parachutes. They are easy to shape and they catch plenty of air, making them great for beginners.
How To Make A Toy Parachute That Falls Slowly
A slow parachute depends on two things: the canopy size and the balance of the strings.
Choosing The Right Canopy Size
A wide canopy helps with slower landing. Small canopies fall quickly.
Correct String Length And Balance
All strings should match in length. When they don’t, the parachute leans to one side and drops unevenly.
How To Make A Toy Parachute Out Of Fabric
- Cut a square piece of fabric about 12×12 inches.
- Trim a tiny hole at each corner.
- Cut four strings of equal length.
- Tie each string to a corner hole.
- Tie the other ends of the strings to a small toy.
- Throw it upward and observe how it moves.
Fabric parachutes tend to fall smoothly, which makes them satisfying to try many times.
How To Make A Toy Parachute Out Of Paper
- Cut a square sheet of paper.
- Tape the corners to reduce tearing.
- Create a hole in each reinforced corner.
- Use four equal lengths of string.
- Attach the strings to a small toy.
Paper parachutes are good for inside experiments where wind doesn’t interfere.
How To Make A Parachute Toy With A Plastic Bag
- Lay the bag flat and cut it into a square.
- Make small holes in the corners.
- Tie equal strings to each hole.
- Attach the strings to your chosen toy.
A plastic bag parachute spreads nicely in the air and works well even from a short height.
How To Make A Parachute For An Egg Drop Challenge
Egg drop challenges require a gentle landing. So, use a large canopy and place padding around the egg.
- Surround the egg with cotton or soft packing.
- Drop from low height first.
- Adjust canopy size and string length as needed.
Tips For Science Fair Projects
Measure how each version lands. Write down observations. Kids can explain how changing one tiny detail changes the result.
How To Make A Parachute For A Stuffed Animal
Use a canopy at least 18×18 or even larger. The stuffed toy’s weight needs more air resistance to slow it down. Stronger string is also helpful here.
How To Make A Parachute For A School Project
During school presentations, the student can describe:
- What material they used.
- How each parachute behaved when dropped.
- What adjustments worked best.
Talking about the steps builds confidence in explaining ideas clearly.
Science Learning At Home With DIYDONTSHY
DIYDONTSHY encourages easy home science activities that show real physical effects. A toy parachute demonstrates gravity and air resistance in a way that kids can actually see. It’s hands-on, adjustable, and repeatable. A child can test one version, think about what changed, and try another.
Read Also: 35+ How to Make a Paper Truck Ideas
Safety Tips When Testing Toy Parachutes
- Use open areas.
- Be cautious around staircases.
- Keep fragile items far away.
Final Words
Making a toy parachute is simple, inexpensive, and teaches science through action. It invites experimenting. Try fabric, try paper, try plastic, compare results, and let kids observe. If you want more guidance or new project variations, reach out to DIYDONTSHY. Their team can help you find fresh ideas that match what your kids enjoy most.
FAQs About Making a Toy Parachute
1. Which material works best for first attempts?
Plastic bags are easy and float well.
2. Why does the parachute sometimes lean to one side?
Uneven string length can cause tilting.
3. Can yarn replace string?
Yes, as long as it is not too thick.
4. What kind of toy should be attached?
Small lightweight figures work best.
5. What canopy size should I start with?
Begin around 12×12 inches and adjust from there.
