Ken Conrad's Digitally Printed Floater

Ken Conrad's Digitally Printed Floater  

 ..........a modern version of a traditional Japanese Buka dako

Presented by Ken Conrad  Seattle, WA

TYPE OF CLASS:  Sew Project 

CLASS SIZE:  Class Size - 15 

SKILL LEVEL:  Intermediate

CLASS LENGTH: Full Day Project

TIMES OFFERED:  Offered Once

SIZE OF PROJECT: Floater is 4 feet wide by 3 feet high

WIND RANGE: 2-8 MPH, with Fuzzy Tails the Floater is stable to 18+ MPH

Make a novel and active flyer. This is a polyester ripstop and fiberglass/carbon sparred kite which flies remarkably well (it floats!) in light to medium winds of 2- 8mph. If you prefer a stable kite, add fuzzy tails and your Ken’s Floater will fly in 5 to 18+ mph winds. Learn simple, tunable framing and a unique way of making pockets and reinforcements. Anyone disappointed by light winds on the flying field needs this kite!

Your digital art can be your photo, or original art you scan or create on your device. Instructions for preparing and sending your digital art (ideally by end of 2025) provided when you register – email Ken with any questions.

Although influenced by the traditional Japanese Buka kites, this kite departs from their proportions and framing, so that it tracks better and glides much more. It’s fighter-like, but slower and graceful. In light or no wind conditions it loves to float. This enables the kite to be flown when most other kites are grounded, as long as the flier actively works the flying line to steer and power the kite. For anyone who prefers not to manipulate the line, or who thinks about tethering the kite to a stake, we recommend adding two ~20ft fuzzy tails.

Supplies/Equipment Needed for class -- Sewing Machine, thread, ripper, scissors, regular sewing supplies and a 24 inch straight edge

ART/COLOR CHOICE:  YES!  After your registration, Ken will send details and instructions for submitting your digital artwork, then he will print your sail for the class!

KIT PRICE: Floater is $100-$120 US

EXTRA KITS AVAILABLE to any current U-MAKE Registrant.  Art work MUST be submitted by 1/18/2026.