Wooden Crossbow for Paper Rockets and Planes

This is my wooden crossbow project, made for launching paper planes and rockets! This instructable will detail the overall build process, and I will include links to instructables on how to tie specific knots used in the build.

For this project you will need:

• A long, hard to bend stick
• A shorter, slightly flexible stick
• String/paracord
• 1 or more A4 pieces of paper
• Scissors
• 2 - 3 rubber bands
• sellotape

Firstly, create a clove hitch knot near the base of the longer stick. https://www.instructables.com/How-To-Tie-A-Clove-Hitch/. Then, lash the two sticks together to form a T shape. https://www.animatedknots.com/square-lashing-knot

Take 2 - 3 rubber bands and cut them into long strips, and tie them together. Then, tie them to either ends of the flexible stick at the top of the T. Try experimenting with different types and amounts of rubber bands to see which ones propel the plane the furthest!

1. Fold the piece of paper in half lengthways and open it back up.
2. Fold the top edge down roughly 4 centimetres
3. Flip the paper over and fold the top corners to the centre.
4. Repeat this step 2 times
5. Fold the rocket in half, and cut a diagonal line halfway through the piece of paper as indicated on the photo
6. Open the paper back up, and fold the two sides into the centre
7. fold the planes wings, and use tape or glue to keep the plane from unfolding

To fire the crossbow, simply hook the rocket onto the rubber band, pull back, and let go! Be careful not to aim it at other people or animals.