How to Make a Paper Rocket: 14 Steps
Step 1: Gather Materials
For this project, you will need the following:
– A piece of A4 size paper or letter-sized paper
– A straw
– Scissors
– Tape
– A ruler
– Pencil or pen
Step 2: Fold the Paper in Half
Fold the paper in half lengthwise, then unfold it. This is to create a guideline for folding in future steps.
Step 3: Fold the Top Corners Down
Fold both top corners down so they meet at the center line you created in Step 2.
Step 4: Fold the New Top Corners Again
Repeat Step 3, folding the new top corners down to meet at the center line.
Step 5: Create Wings for Your Rocket
Fold your paper along the centerline again. Flip it over and fold each side of your rocket outwards on both sides to create wings. Ensure they stay symmetrical on both sides.
Step 6: Take Measurements & Mark your Rocket Body
Using a ruler, measure roughly one third (1/3) from the bottom of your rocket and mark it with a pencil or pen.
Step 7: Make Fins for Your Rocket
Draw two diagonal lines from your mark to each bottom corner of your rocket, creating a triangular shape (these will be your fins).
Step 8: Cut Out the Fins
Carefully cut along the lines you’ve drawn, starting at the bottom corners up until your marked points.
Step 9: Refold Your Fins
Unfold the cut triangles and fold them outwards so they lay flat against each other perpendicularly to the rocket body.
Step 10: Reinforce Your Fins
Tape over the fold between the fins and rocket body to ensure proper alignment and reinforcement.
Step 11: Create a Launch Tube for Straw
Roll the top part of the rocket into a tight cylinder, leaving enough room in the center for your straw to fit.
Step 12: Secure the Launch Tube
Use tape to secure your launch tube and prevent it from unrolling.
Step 13: Insert Straw
Gently insert the straw through the launch tube until it reaches the bottom of the rocket, making sure not to bend or damage your rocket.
Step 14: Ready for Takeoff!
Your paper rocket is now complete and ready for launch! Go outside and blow into the straw to send your rocket soaring into the sky. Enjoy your homemade flying masterpiece and experiment with different folding techniques and paper types to create a unique fleet of paper rockets.