Sometimes simple toys are the best toys as they don't require a lot of set up to enjoy and are easily reproduced at home. Such is the case with parachute men--small plastic action figures attached to parachutes so they can be dropped from the top of the stairs and slowly drift down to the floor for a safe landing. Usually parachute men have a cheap plastic parachute that is easily torn, but you can make a more sturdy version in just a few minutes.
Instructions
1. Draw a design on the lightweight handkerchief with fabric markers, such as a flag or the logo of your favorite brand of candy. You can even cover the handkerchief in random doodles.
2. Cut four 12-inch-long lengths of embroidery thread.
3. Guide each thread, using a needle, from the underside of the handkerchief to the top and back down to the underside a 1/4 inch from where it first when through. Do this in each corner of the parachute with the four pieces of thread.
4. Pull the pieces of thread through so you have one long end and one end that is an inch long. Tie the two ends in a double knot so the thread will stay attached to the parachute.
5. Wrap a rubber band around the waist of the action figure. Wrap it as many times as it takes for the rubber band to be snug.
6. Tie the long ends of the embroidery thread to the rubber band with the threads evenly spaced around the waist of the toy.
7. Pinch the middle of the parachute and pull upward to extend it. Let go and watch the toy slowly drift to the ground.
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