3 Ways to Make a Plastic Bag Parachute

Introduction:
Plastic bag parachutes are fun and easy DIY projects that can provide hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike. They can be made from household materials, making them an affordable and creative activity for a rainy day or outdoor adventure. In this article, we’ll explore three different ways to make a plastic bag parachute.
Method 1: The Classic Design
Materials:
– A plastic bag
– Four pieces of string, about 12 inches long each
– A small figurine or toy to act as the parachute’s cargo
– Scissors
– Tape
Instructions:
1. Lay the plastic bag flat on your working surface and cut off its handles.
2. Cut a large square out of the plastic bag, ensuring all sides are equal in length.
3. Take a piece of string and tape one end at each corner of the plastic square. Make sure the tape is attached securely.
4. Gather all four strings and connect them to your toy figure by tying knots around its limbs or attaching them with tape.
5. Your classic plastic bag parachute is now ready for action! Toss it gently into the air or drop it from a height and watch it gracefully float to the ground.
Method 2: The Mini Dome Parachute
Materials:
– A sandwich-sized plastic bag with zipper seal
– Four pieces of thin ribbon or string, about 10 inches long each
– A small, lightweight object like an eraser or LEGO figure
– Tape
Instructions:
1. Keep the zipper seal closed and pull the plastic bag’s bottom corners outward so that it forms a dome shape.
2. Attach a piece of ribbon at each bottom corner using tape.
3. Adjust the dome shape if needed so that it inflates properly during flight.
4. Attach the free ends of all four ribbons to your object, making sure it hangs in the center of the parachute.
5. Launch your mini dome parachute by tossing it into the air and watch as it drifts down gently.
Method 3: The Ballistic Parachuter
Materials:
– A large plastic bag
– Four pieces of string, about 18 inches long each
– A small ball or object that can be attached to the strings
– Tape
– Rubber band
Instructions:
1. Cut off the plastic bag’s handles and cut a large square out of it.
2. Tape one end of each string to the corners of the plastic square.
3. Attach the other ends of the strings to your ball or chosen object with tape or by tying them.
4. With rubber band, bundle up the parachute by loosely wrapping it around the ball, making sure not to tangle the strings.
5. Gently throw your ballistic parachuter into the air with an upward toss, and when it reaches its peak height, watch as the parachute unfolds and brings your object safely back down to earth.
Conclusion:
These three methods for creating plastic bag parachutes are easy and entertaining for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a quick indoor activity or an outdoor adventure, give these DIY parachutes a try and let your creativity soar!