What skill level am I at?

If you are unsure what skill level you are at, always error on the least experienced side.  It takes a bit to experience in kitemaking.  You have to have a basic understanding of your sewing machine and combine that with basic understanding on how kites are made and what makes them fly.  


SEWING

Even at the beginner level, if you are making a sewn kite, you should have a machine that is tuned for ripstop and you are confident at threading your machine and winding bobbins.  Spend some time at home getting used to your machine.  Practice sewing straight lines, curves and corners.  Be familiar with the stitches offered by your machine. 

Mrs Kitelady has some GREAT beginning sewing videos here

Gary Engvall has great info at:   https://sites.google.com/site/kites4all/home/kite-sewing-101 

and info about sewing machines here.....https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxhtLE3Bf4U&feature=youtu.be 

SEWING

Beginners haven't made too many kites or different kite styles. They are familiar with their machine, know what thread to use. They know the difference between straight stitches and zigzag, but may have never made a kite before or have made only one or two styles of simpler kites.

Intermediates have made several kites of different, more complex styles. They know their machine and can recognize a nice, neat stitch. Intermediates understand the forces on a kite and can read simple kite plans.

Advanced have made lots of kites from different styles and know how to adjust their machines to get the best stitching. They can follow complex kite plans and make modifications to kites.

NON SEWING

No sew projects also have ranges of complexity depending on the project.  

Beginner projects are suited for the new kitemaker--or any kitemaker who would like to try a new medium of kitemaking.

Intermediate No Sew will involve joining panels and seams with adhesives.  Steady hands and patience will be needed. 

Advanced No Sew will up the game and require a lot of patience and complex procedures to complete a kite. 

THEORY

Theory classes can benefit all levels of participants!