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Friday, March 27, 2015

What better classic toy is there than a good ol' paper airplane?  Any one can make it and I'm sure everyone has.

The origin of folded paper gliders is generally considered to be of Ancient China, although there is equal evidence that the refinement and development of folded gliders took place in equal measure in Japan. Certainly, manufacture of paper on a widespread scale took place in China 500 BCE, and origami and paper folding became popular within a century of this period, approximately 460-390 BCE. It is impossible to ascertain where and in what form the first paper aircraft were constructed, or even the first paper plane's form.

In recent times, paper model aircraft have gained great sophistication, and very high flight performance far removed from their origami origins, yet even origami aircraft have gained many new and exciting designs over the years, and gained much in terms of flight performance.  There have been many design improvements, including velocity, lift, propulsion, style and fashion, over subsequent years.


Go ahead, give yourself a break and act like a kid a again and Click Here to watch a great video to be reminded how to make an awesome flying paper airplane.

In honor of this being my last Nostalgic Toys post for the ETSY NY Team Blog, I created a new surprise ball in the shape of an airplane.  It can be purchased from my Watermelon Party shop.



Wednesday, March 4, 2015

Nostalgic Toys ~ Weaving Looms

Weaving loom toys date from an era when children often amused themselves by making things and doing crafts. Children felt proud when they created beautiful potholders, scarfs,and other practical items that they could use at home or give as gifts.  
Weaving loom toys gave hours of constructive amusement and fun to girls and boys alike. The kits didn't take up a lot of space, they weren't messy and they were perfect for a long car ride or sick days spent in bed.  A weaving loom was a toy that could foster personal expression and build self-esteem.  Vintage inspired weaving looms are available for purchase online at Amazon.com and HobbyLobby.com.
If you'd like to see results of REAL weaving,  Etsy NY Team member, Jean Poli of Fiber Dance Weaving Studio spends countless hours creating exquisite blankets and throws that are woven on a traditional hand loom using only the best natural fiber yarns.