How to Make a Parachute That Actually Works

Learn to build a simple, functional parachute using household materials with step-by-step instructions for all skill levels.

1. Gather Your Materials. You'll need a lightweight plastic bag (like a grocery bag), four pieces of string or yarn each about 12 inches long, scissors, tape, and a small toy or object to serve as your passenger (a small action figure, toy car, or even a paper clip works well). Make sure your passenger isn't too heavy - it should weigh less than a few ounces for best results.
2. Prepare the Parachute Canopy. Cut your plastic bag to create a square that's roughly 12 inches by 12 inches. If you're using a grocery bag, you can cut along the seams and use one of the flat sides. The square doesn't need to be perfect, but try to make it fairly even. Smooth out any wrinkles to help air flow properly underneath.
3. Attach the Strings. Use small pieces of tape to attach one end of each string to the four corners of your plastic square. Make sure the tape is secure - you don't want the strings coming loose during your test flight. The strings should all be the same length so your parachute stays balanced when it falls.
4. Add Your Passenger. Gather the four loose ends of the strings and tie them together around your chosen passenger. Make sure the knot is tight and secure. Your passenger should hang freely below the parachute canopy. If the strings are too long, you can trim them, but leave at least 8 inches between the canopy and the passenger.
5. Test and Adjust. Find a safe, high place to test your parachute - stairs, a deck, or even standing on a chair works well. Hold the parachute by the center of the canopy and gently toss it upward and outward. Watch how it falls. If it drops too quickly, try using a lighter passenger or making the canopy bigger. If it spins wildly, check that all strings are the same length.