Articulated Wing Framework

A skeleton set of wings made from balsa wood and an old frame backpack, suitable for angels, bats, demons, birds (but not so much for butterflies or other insects). They open and close as you raise your arms, and flap forward and back when you do. Decorate them with leather, feathers, streamers, gold paint, whatever strikes your fancy. Mine ended up with a 9 foot span when open fully.

I wanted a very lightweight wing that would not tire me if I wore it all night. I chose balsa wood over aluminum tubing because it's easier to work with given the tools I have available. The basic structure could be made out of almost any stiff material, however. (My prototypes were made from popsicle sticks and foam core.) Each wing is a simple set of linkages arranged to expand and rise when opened.

Step 1: Tools & Materials

Except for the backpack, which you may be able to find in a thrift store or Army Surplus if you don't already have one in your garage, all the materials needed can be found in a hardware store and/or craft store.

(A) 1 aluminum frame backpack
(B) 3 pc of 36" x 4" x 1/4" balsa wood
(C) 1 pc (60" length) of 1/4" wood dowel
(D) about a foot of "hanger strap" - a thin strip of metal with holes in it, mine came coiled up in a packet (found in the plumbing section)
(E) 4 nut/bolt sets, bolts of a diameter to fit through the holes in the hanger strap, and as short as you can find (they are used to fasten the hanger strap tight around the wing supports)
(F) 8 shaft collars with inside diameter 1/4"
(G) 6 pc 3/4" machine screws that fit the threadings in the dowel collars (F)
(H) 2 pc 1/2" machine screws that fit the threadings in the dowel collars (F)
(J) 4 pc 1/2" binding posts for the balsa/balsa hinges
(K) 2 pc 3/8" binding posts for the balsa/hanger strap hinges
(L) 10 pc 1/4" long nylon spacers, that the binding post (J) fit through
(M) 6 pc 1/4" long nylon spacers that the machine screws (G) will fit through (and turn; these will be some of the wing hinges)
(N) 4 nylon washers, 1/16" thick, that fit around the binding posts (J)
(P) a number of small nylon washers, 1/16" and 1/32" thick, that fit around the machine screws (G) ¹
(R) 2 nylon flanges (I am not entirely sure this is the right term) to fit into the aluminum tubing of the backpack
(S) scrap leather
(T) couple inches of velcro

¹ these washers are to pad the hinges created by the collars & the machine screws, so the thicknesses are determined by the actual dimensions of the hinge assemblies. I used, I think, 8 of the thicker ones and 6 of the thinner ones, but I suggest buying these later once you're ready to assemble the hinges and can take the wing parts into the hardware store and measure, or just get a bunch and use them as needed (they cost me something like 6 cents each).

Tools:

• x-acto knife
• Dremel or power drill with a cutting wheel attachment & a 1/4" metal drill bit
• tin snips (you can use the cutting wheel if you don't have tin snips)
• 2 pair needle nose pliers
• wood glue
• hot glue gun
• screw drivers appropriate for your bolts and screws
• sandpaper or fine file (I use fingernail files)
• sewing machine or needle & thread

Comments

[Kirike]

did you cover yours with feathers? for the project i have in mind id have to cover it in feathers, and i am not sure how to go about doing that!

[lharlett]

http://flamiekitten.tumblr.com/post/46260200282/cries-tears-of-joy-etc-look-whats-finally

Thank you much for your tutorial, my Dad and I had a good time making these together! :D

[Unihorn]

Thanks again. Suggestions: avoid drilling large holes in the wood for the inserts and use large washers instead. I had chunks break out trying to drill the hardwood trim. Longer bolts to account for the washers. Metal rods instead of wood where it attaches to the backpack. Heavier gauge steel strapping. Cut the wood with a jigsaw and then a dremel to round all edges so things don't catch.

[Unihorn]

Amazing engineering and the best instructions I've ever seen on here. I'm a Halloween costume nut and this will be the first time I'll avoid a month of trial and error and 10 part runs to the hardware store. Do you have a PayPal account that I can use to send you a few bucks for the plans?

[rachel]

Thank you so much for the compliments! No need to send me anything, just make an awesome set of wings and post pictures when you're done. I do advise not using balsa wood as it turned out not to be strong enough for multiple wearings, I got I think two parties out of these wings before the hinges started to pop out :( whiteoakart's idea of 1/8" birch plywood is probably what I'd try if I made these again.

[Unihorn]

I think I might splurge and go with bar aluminum. I priced aluminum at $22 for 6' or an L shape aluminum at $10/6'. I've learned over the years you have to factor in the labor cost of rebuilding items and that I am good at running into things with a giant mascot head on :) Thanks again.

[whiteoakart]

I am using 1/8" birch plywood from the hobby shop. It is much stronger than balsa, but still inexpensive, very light, and easy to work with.

[Cresco]

Just thought I would share! I used your instructable to make a Halloween costume for my son this year. Thank you very much for the inspiration!

http://www.coolest-homemade-costumes.com/coolest-homemade-toothless-the-dragon-halloween-costume-idea-4.html

[whiteoakart]

That's a really nice costume you made for your son, Jeff. Kudos.

[rachel]

Wow that looks awesome! Thanks for posting it. (Cute kid too :)

[jade12135]

How big width-wise are these? And could I lengthen the leather strap to make them extend more? And would this hold chicken wire and feathers? Sorry about bombarding you with questions ;u;

[ogihci]

Did you cover your wings with feathers? Could you maybe show me? I don't want to cover it all to find out it won't close D:

[dreiling]

great design and instructions on this. i'm currently making a set of these for a motion capture project, and just wanted to thank you for putting this up. it has been a great help though my project.

[DessMia]

I've made a pair of these, but they're kind of awkward to wear. When they're closed, they fall inward and get tangled with my packstraps, and they don't close well when I extend them. Do you have any suggestions on how I might be able to fix these technical difficulties?

[AudioMaximus]

This is a perfect side project for me on my robotics team! I think I'm going to use an aluminum frame instead of balsa would, for durability. Maybe even use some small servo motors or something for opening/closing activated by a switch

[DessMia]

Do you know/remember what brand of backpack you used to make these, I'm looking at some online and the picture shows them with a external frame, but they don't say anything about an internal frame. Should I assume that the packs have one, or not?

[rachel]

I got mine from someone's garage where it had been sitting for I think years. I don't know what brand it was unfortunately, nor do I know if all external frame backpacks have an internal frame too. Try contacting the seller perhaps? If you don't have an internal frame to re-use, you could get some aluminum or even plastic tubing separately.

[dlee32]

I loveee this!! And I'm SOO thankful u posted a tutorial!! XD I just have a question... Do u think the frame would be able withstand additional weight? Say if I draped cloth and wutnot in order to create demon wings?

[kfassett1]

Ive been trying to make a realistic bird costume:) I was going for a maximum ride look. These wings are so perfect! But im not sure i can make them...im not good with these things. would you sell me a pair?

[noob_for_life]

We got a backpack from Craigslist which does have an inner frame. Do you think the thin struts can work for the bent tubes? If not, can you give me some idea of how long the tube should be and we'll try to scrounge something?

Thanks much. This is SUCH A COOL project1

[rachel]

The thin tubes from the inner frame is exactly what I used for the bent tubes that form the shoulder joints.

Thanks for the compliment! Post a pic when you're done!

[Darkone99]

where does the 2 bent tubes come from??

[rachel]

Sorry I missed this question at the time! My backpack had an inner aluminum frame inside the pack part, the bit you actually put stuff into. I didn't manage to take a picture of this bit at the time, I'm afraid, so it doesn't show up in this photo set.

[derrondune]

My question is the same as Darkone99. Where do the 2 bent tubes come from?

[rachel]

My backpack had an inner aluminum frame inside the pack part, the bit you actually put stuff into. I didn't manage to take a picture of this bit at the time, I'm afraid, so it doesn't show up in this photo set.

[CosplayProps]

how many inches across is the widest part of your bone Y Ms. Rachel?

[rachel]

Probably about 2", but it's not a vital measurement. You can set the width to whatever works for your material and design needs.

[TheBoneCarver]

Rachel: Thank You! With the help of your Instructable, I was able to construct one of the "hit" costumes at Wild Wild West Con 2011 for my wife.

To help Cat Spang out: I didn't use a camping backpack. I purchased a 10' section of PVC pipe, some elbows and end caps to construct the framework. It reduced their width and made them much more comfortable for my wife to wear. Here's a picture of the back and the full outfit with the wings open.

I'm working on a stronger version that uses aluminum for the bones, conduit for the frame and piano hinge for the hinge.

[rachel]

These are amazing looking! I hope you post pictures of the new version, or even an instructable about it, it looks like you've made a ton of improvements on how the wings are attached.

[ewickerham]

This is a wonderful idea and i am addicted to the idea of having wings, one year for halloween i had made those lil fairy wings out of wire hanger and stockings but i rlly want feathered wings. so i look at all these websites and find how to make wings out of cardboard..... well those wings are great but they dont move >.> so after a while of searching for articulated wings i found this, i love this idea and think it would be amaizing but i was wondering, how do u make the skin or feathered part???... and do i have to buy a really good quality backpack? cuz it cant get too pricey.... i LOVE this idea.. im trying to think how to cover the ugly frame... i mean it is beatiful work its just not what u want to see when u are supposed to be looking at a pair of angel or elsewise wings..... BUT I LOVE THIS!!!

[rachel]

A little while ago I saw where someone had made similar wings like this, but instead of using a backpack, they had made slots in a corset, to slide the wing supports into. If I were to make these again, I would use that method, it is much sleeker and made the wings really look like they were attached. Unfortunately I didn't save the link to it :(

[Moldragath]

ya i was wondering where i could get a template for the wood cut outs, thanks!

[Moldragath]

sweet thanks, great job, by the way, has any one that has made these added fethers and if so how lol?

[ewickerham]

There are many ways that i have thought of and seen videos of and actual documentaries of, the most common ones are to line the proper parts of the frame with chicken wire to the appropriate shape u desire. Then cover that with the same color fabric u would use for the wings. u have to get the right parts of the frame lined though, otherwise it wont bend..... there is a video on youtube on how to make moving angel wings out of a towel drying rack. i think it is a wonderful easier and much more understandable (to a 13 yr old female's mind). i was thinking that her wings are cute but since she was new to making wings, she could have modified the shape of the chicken wire to give it a much less boxy shape and well (u have to watch the video to understand this) i cant think of any other Mats other than duct tape, to attach them. her "harness" is a lil kinda gaudy but if decorated properly, it could be just fine.... btw her harness was much smaller (for those looking for a smaller harness) but it was just the handle of a bike screwed into the drying rack.... i really appreciate this info though

[rachel]

I just drew some shapes in the appropriate lengths that looked good to me. You don't really need a template, just draw on paper making sure that the holes are the right distances apart.

[DessMia]

How long is each bone, from tip to tip?

[Cat Spang]

Wow, these are incredible.
I was wondering, though, do you think there is a suitable alternative for the backpack framework? I can't find any in shops here, and any I can find on the internet are ridiculously expensive,
Brilliant idea though.

Also apologies if you've already answered this question.

[abadfart]

pvc and nylon webbing

[crak-a-bottle]

I've not had a go at this project but perhaps one of those metal chairs that folds flat? The back of it might work. Use belts or something for straps....
Cheap metal ladder might work.

[atuttle]

for the frame work i would say go to your local camping supply shop and get some hiking packs

[SlashmasterAeoniX]

Wow! These are amazing! I have a question, though. How good is your range of movement? Like, strange arm movements that aren't out/in, front/back, but ones where your arms are more in a NW/NE/SW/SE direction? My brother plays a Pelican character in a local LARP chapter, and we'd love to find wings that he can wear that would still allow him to participate in combat.

[rachel]

I don't think I could really recommend wearing these during any kind of combat, unless they were constructed with a much more rugged set of materials and techniques than I used. Or possibly, don't attach the wings when the arms have to be used in this way? Work out a way to tie the wings back and out of the way during combat? Even so, the balsa wood is probably the wrong material. I found that these started breaking during 'normal' use, i.e. at Halloween parties. There are more comments about better materials lower down which may have some useful info for you.

[rhoddity]

Whoa, that is insanely cool! (Albeit a little bit out of my capabilities. =P)

[merlin65]

Is there a pattern for the wooden parts (even in scale) somewhere for this? Looks amazing!

[rachel]

Not that I know of - that is, I just drew a pattern on paper for mine. The important dimensions are given in step 3 and the shapes don't need to be exact, so you should be able to recreate them either on paper or electronically.

Post a picture of yours when you're done!

[merlin65]

Okay, I've re-read Step 3 and I think I can figure it out. Thanks!

[romanceblood]

I found an easier way to make the wings instead of using dowels and those expensive shaft collars. My bones start at 36'' inches, they're huge so they need extra support. Instead of the dowels I used a thinner sheet of fiber board (it doesnt split, so its easier to drill the holes) and put them in replacement with the same spacers and machine screws. sorry but your instructions are way more complicated than they really should be. i havent figured out the harness yet, and also i would like to suggest to others that bone Z should be about 10% longer than its original size so the wings don't look box-y when folded up.

[rachel]

I must have missed this comment when you wrote it. I'd love if you would post a picture of yours, or even a full instructable if you found a way to make these easier!

[violetkitty]

hey is there a way to put fabric on them or what kind would it be because my friend is wondering because she is making a succubus costume and saw this and thought it would look cool.

[romanceblood]

It really all depends on what kind of look shes going for. Scaly, or feathered, or just skin. I would actually suggest for all of them using fabric. For my feathered versions I bought 4 yards of black felt and glued AND rivet-ed the 'skin' on the bones. Mine ended up being 6.5 feet. Each. And I glued the feathers on using hot glue. Or you could look at another tutorial also called Articulated Wings.

[romanceblood]

does the balsa wood need any other support? it seems as if it got hit or got rustled around in the car, it would snap.

[Deathatsix]

I would say if you were worried about a little more strength then wood aluminum would be a good substitute. still light weight but less brittle.

[need12345]

hi i am raahim from pakistan. i seriously want to make these these wings for my performance at a talent show. well i will be singing but i need a prop of wwings 4 it.. can u pls send it to me

[craig3]

oooh, ve ve nice, now if only i could rig it to remotely open without using my arms, motors of course somehow

[imrobot]

hmmm... now how would one go about spring loading this?

[Kyrc00]

So wait, how long are the dowels when you attach them to the bones?

[unisis5285]

Hello Rachel, I just wanted to start by saying I am SUPER IMPRESSED with these wings. I am in the process of making a set and have a question about fitting the balsa wood patterns. The Y Bone piece says: top hole to middle hole: 18-3/8 inches middle hole to bottom hole: 6 inches But as my pieces of balsa wood are only 24 inches long, they are not long enough for the total length which is 24 3/8 in just between holes not including the extra space needed between the holes and the end of the wood. Am I missing something in the directions? My brain has been a little foggy lately!

[rachel]

I'm afraid I don't know what to tell you for this, my balsa pieces were 36" long :( maybe you could make the whole thing 10% smaller?

[ablefox]

Hi Rachel, I'm about to embark on a steampunk version of your design and am very excited! I think what may have thrown unisis off is that the materials list says " (B) 3 pc of 24" x 4" x 1/4" balsa wood." It seems like it should be 36" instead...

[rachel]

Why, you're right! Thanks for catching that. I fixed it. I'd love to see some pictures of yours when you're done, or in fact even as you go along :) unisis5285, I'm terribly sorry about that! Were you able to work something out?

[ablefox]

Hi Rachel,

Here's the link to my work in progress: http://www.instructables.com/id/Steampunk-version-of-Rachels-articulated-wings/

[dieter laser]

Hi, nice work. maybe im blind but I couldnt find the lenght of the two balsa dowels. greetz

[DawnKestrel]

This is really amazing! I'd already started to make a pair before I saw this, and it's helped so much!

[soonerhoosier]

Hi, Rachel. I bought a backpack on ebay and the frame will work great, but the pack had no inner frame. I'm sure I can find an aluminum tube that will work for the shoulder joints, but can you tell me approximately how long each of those pieces would be if they were straight? Thanks.

[rapidkhan]

I made a pair of these but with a few tweaks, I used PVC pipe instead of wood and added material to make them more mechanical than bird-like
go have a look if you like:
http://rapidkhan.deviantart.com/art/My-Wings-126489015

[imspiritb]

Is there something else that I could use insted of the shaft collars?

[imspiritb]

Ok, Im building these as we speak.

"(F) 8 shaft collars with inside diameter 1/4"

Can't find them ANYWHERE! I know that for sure thats not the right term.

Does anyone know where I can get them at an affordable price( I found a pack of 8, variaty pack for 16$! at Canadian Tire)
in Ottawa, Ontario?

I need them now. ( for Otakuthon)

[NightShade26]

Um, I don't mean this to sound like a dumb question, but I went to my local Lowe's and asked them about the parts. The only things that they couldn't find items F through H and recommended me to go to a specialty machine shop. Would it be easier to find these items at Home Depot, or was I just looking in the wrong area and if I was, which area would it be under? Thanks for the help.

[rachel]

I found all the parts at my local hardware store (Cole Hardware in SF), although they seemed quite common so I'm surprised Lowe's doesn't have them. I'd suggest calling around. I'm pretty sure the term 'shaft collar' is the usual term although I could be wrong. In particular you want a 'set screw shaft collar' rather than a clamp type.

These are similar to what I used for F but check the inside dimensions for the size of dowel you have. G & H are just regular machine screws that fit the threaded hole in the shaft collar.

[R4Man18]

They have them in a lot of places im sure you can find them somewhere, my sister uses those for scrap books and gets them at micheals so I guess just look around.

[Smexy Dead]

About how much did you spend on supplies?

[rachel]

Maybe $30, over several trips to the hardware store. Many of the parts are in the nickel-to-dime range.

[stringstretcher]

Why hasn't anyone mentioned 1/4 inch (6mm) plywood? It is so light and strong and unbreakable and workable and CHEAP :-) Cool machine!

[Zapuruxo]

This is incredible! Having been interested in steampunk and all its aspects for some time, these wings appeal immensely to my creative mind. I must find someone to help me build my own. :] Fantastic work. Bravissima.

[OMerKid]

Do you think that corregated plastic would be a good substitute for the balsa wood?

[rachel]

I can't really say, I'm not familiar with the properties of corrugated plastic. But by analogy with corrugated cardboard, I'd worry about it being insufficiently stiff in the crosswise direction of the corrugations. Maybe if you cut the bones along the length of the corrugations you would be OK.

[OMerKid]

Well, I have already cut the bones out along the length of the corrugations, and it seems sturdy enough for the way I need to use it. I'll post a link when I am finished.

[rachel]

That would be great, I'd love to see how yours turn out!

[static]

To use materials heavier than balsa. Take a tip from the old hot rodders and the birds. Remove material that may not be necessary by cutting large holes in the middles of the "bones" But take out too much the bones may not be able to resist torsional forces

[rachel]

Now that makes a lot of sense. I'm not really satisfied with the balsa, it hasn't broken but it keeps threatening to. And a stronger material wouldn't require the reinforcement at the hinge points (the plastic spaces) a couple of which popped out and had to be reglued. I'm thinking of trying this with 3/16" acrylic sheet, which could probably support a fair amount of material loss.

[techiebot]

I use "luan" otherwise known as Philippine mahogany for many things in theatre. It is laminated, so it is very strong. The mahogany is pretty tough and flexible. It would probably hold up to cutting holes in it to lighten the load. I have to special order it through the local lumber company. It comes in 1/4 and 1/8 thicknesses. I would like to try this. I made simpler wings using carbon fiber tent poles which were really light and really strong.

[Mikey D]

Awesome job Rachel! For an alternate material, try maple (or ash or hickory!) YOu can get boards resawn and milled to 1/4" thick and you wings will be "Bull Strong"! They will be workable with your tools (drill press & coping saw, not carving with an exacto will work best) and not add a tremendous amount of weight. Static's idea is great also, you could cut stylized holes (long narrow curved triangles that look like gussets, trusses and tendons) to lighten up the bones in the non stressed areas. Acrylic is very brittle (can shatter when bent or dropped) and not very light. Lexan (polycarbonate - bullet resistant glass) will be too flexable. Again, excellent instructable! My son's will love building these!

[vogelein]

Rachel!

Your wonderful Instructable was a big inspiration for me this Halloween. I took your pattern and made my own version. You can see them here: SteamFashion LiveJournal or here: My Blog

[rachel]

Wow, those look fantastic. Everyone, go look at vogelein's version, super cool!

[All4Shrimp]

Where specificly could you get one of the backpacks?

[TheDragonGirl]

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___90501?CS_003=2476481&CS_010=90501

[rachel]

I got mine from someone who didn't want theirs any more, via the Freecycle network (http://www.freecycle.org/ to find if there's a list for your area). I'm afraid I can't be more specific than that.

[chada]

Rachel this was such an awesome instructable. The steps were clear and easy to follow. I documented my end result in this slideshow for anyone interested: http://www.instructables.com/id/Articulated_Wings_my_version/. The main additions were the fur fabric covering the backpack frame, the "batskin" type of fabric (it's for a gargoyle costume), and the little horns at the top shoulder joints. Hope that gives someone more ideas :)

[Gamgee]

How much weight can these support?

[SinyorPicante]

This is fantastic! I think this thing just won at instructables.. xD Does any one know how to build this kind of kinematics virtually? I would like to build it in the computer first to develop the perfect measurements and so forth. For what I'm trying to build I need a smaller back harness and the wing tip to extend higher.

[sincitysaint]

that is the coooolest thing ever now i just need to make up a reason to wear it

[All4Shrimp]

K I'm definitely making this for halloween, but what kind of fabric would I use for the wings themselves? It would have to be stretch, I think, and maybe have feathers attached to it to give it the look. Any suggestions?

[rachel]

A stretch fabric sounds reasonable. I didn't actually cover mine with fabric so I can't give you any tips on that. Do share what you learn with your experimentation - and post pics when you're done!

[All4Shrimp]

Thanks, Rachel

[All4Shrimp]

About how much does it cost altogether, including backpack?

[OfficerKarl]

Since this isn't a product for sale somewhere, then it's not the creators problem what people do with it, as with all projects on instructables. Besides, the "smaller percentage" of people that would be dumb enough to try and fly with these is even smaller because if they were that dumb, they most likely wouldn't be able to make these that well.

[IkilledKenny]

I still say JUMP if you think that these will help you fly.

[OfficerKarl]

I just say have some common sense...

[Grey_Wolfe]

Anything in the world can be used in an inappropriate manner, and many of them dangerously. If that was the only reason not to use or recommend something, we'd all be still walking, if not simply hiding in caves till food came our way. I'm not trying to be rude, and I apologize if I wasn't overly eloquent in the way I worded it. Can't blame the designer for someone else being reckless or foolish. We each are entitled to our opinions, and I hope I was not found disrespectful in my expression of my disagreement, Thomas. Though I do agree, there is likely need for a well worded disclaimer might be in order, so as to at least make some of the goofy folks think twice. I've been looking for something along this line that is simple for awhile. This is very nicely done, and easy to use. Thanks, Rachel.

[lebowski]

+5 stars!

[Sparksfromfire]

Hello Rachel, or anyone else who has completed this instructable, Could you post a bit more on the construction of the balsa to dowel hinge. I cannot quite figure out what you've done there. I see the parts laid out in your photograph, but I do not see how they connect. Thank you, Sparks

[rachel]

Hi Sparks I answered this but it's just a comment above yours so I don't think you got a message about it, sorry!

[rachel]

Check out Step 5 (http://www.instructables.com/id/SDNED6MF82EXL84/), the last 3 pictures which are of the lower shoulder hinge. The balsa-to-dowel hinges are made just like that, only the balsa piece is used instead of the wrapped copper strap. The pictures there should be pretty clear (they show a metal piece instead of a wooden dowel but it's the same function).

If you're making this, I'd love to see pictures, and any advice or improvements you may have worked out!

[rachel]

I sure didn't detail that one very well, did I?

Check out Step 5 (http://www.instructables.com/id/SDNED6MF82EXL84/), the last 3 pictures which are of the lower shoulder hinge. The balsa-to-dowel hinges are made just like that, only the balsa piece is used instead of the wrapped copper strap. The pictures there should be pretty clear (they show a metal piece instead of a wooden dowel but it's the same function).

If you're making this, I'd love to see pictures, and any advice or improvements you may have worked out!

[missariaaaa]

Wow! This is so cool! I'm going to have my step-dad help me make a pair of these for my Moogle cosplay. Can you cover them with cloth, or will that mess them up? Also, what did you use to color them afterwards? I was thinking spray paint, but I wasn't completely sure.....

[necie]

Based on how the wings fold up, would you suggest covering them with fabric prior to adding feathers? or would the fabric get caught up in the folding/unfolding process? Did you add feathers when you wore them out?

This is my goal: http://www.flickr.com/photos/contumacy-singh/2542964063/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/contumacy-singh/2543790368/in/photostream/

[joebuild]

You are my heroine! I am currently creating a new theater show and needed a pair of angel wings. I was going to make something static but the way these move out and forward with the arms is magical. Thanks so much for posting this and when the show is ready I will sure and give you credit in the program (and send a few pics if it all works out). Thanks for taking the time to share your creativity!

[kinetical]

Rachel, why didn't you tell me about these! I need to know these things! Thanks you....

[StiltGuyJoe]

You're my hero.

[ScottSEA]

These, my dear, are absolutely fantastic.

[brainspater]

You no if you wanted you can use a pro pain tank and make yourself a rocket but thats way over the top! Am I right?

[firehopper]

very nice! I have something simular on my dragon costume, however mine are motorized :)
http://www.furnation.com/cryalith/renfaire2/ <pictures
http://www.furnation.com/cryalith/renfaire.mov < video of the wings in action :)

[TheAtomicSoul]

I wasn't expecting to see people I recognize online here Either. (Course, I'm a lurker- so you problibly don't recognize me. :) )

[AzurusNova]

Heh, never expected to find you here, but yea, your wings are pretty cool from what I remember seeing of them in the photos. ;)

[rachel]

sweet! I love how those fold up around you. Post how you made them!

[firehopper]

actually the only part I made was the control system. I can post piccys of the wing innards though :)

[rachel]

please do!

[firehopper]

okay, well I haven't had a chance to take any new pictures of the wingpack but I do have some in contstruction piccys, even a bones movie :)

http://www.furnation.com/cryalith/fursuitwings.html
keep in mind I don't use the finger sensor controller anymore, those proved to be too fragile.

[error404]

It is a nice kick off Rachel. A nifty set up that anyone could make batman or the hero in Brazil or Mighty Cthulu. Bals seems a bit too weak to my way of thinking, but then my way of thinking is very Isambard Kingdon Bruenel, iron and steel and lots of it. Pah you modern types.

[rachel]

It turned out the balsa was strong enough to hold up for my purposes, and my main concern was them being light enough to wear around for an extended period of time. There's no reason not to make them out of something more sturdy if you can bear up under it!

[Closet_RAt]

...using the method I discovered this year for creating my own silicone masks (I REALLY need to start contributing here...), this is the final (ish) ingredient I need to move up to the big time with my Creeper costume I'm planning for next year...

[rachel]

Hey, put up a silicone mask instructable! Do it!

[chosetec]

This is cool, I don't make wing-costumes but do appreciate seeing nice ones at anime conventions. I wonder if you built it out of strong materials, could you make a practical flying/gliding device, at least for skydiver types.

[rachel]

There's no way these would be strong enough for gliding with a human's weight attached, I hope you are not planning to try it! Even with much stronger materials, these are far too small, and the hinges would be too weak. A hang glider, which is pretty much the lightest, smallest non-motorized device to allow a human to be airborne (as opposed to merely slowing down one's fall), is both a rigid structure and many times the size.

[Abaddon]

I think it would work but you will need to reinforce them a lot, also it would be difficult to make a plegable wing like that so strong. It would be more effective if you use a simple pair of wings made out of glass fiver without any plegable device, although the idea its already taken. I'm sorry for my bad English, I'm from Argentina so English isn't my first language.

[Jack-In-Da-Box]

very cool, but why would you bother making these no offence, just lame, you wont get a boyfriend or girlfriend from dis

[Illidan]

what a stupid comment

[error404]

seems someone is unfamiliar with instrucrables "Be Nice" policy.

[Abaddon]

This is not a dating site, the things you make here aren't for getting boyfriend/girlfriend pal, and anyway creating interesting and creative things are a nice and healthy way of getting boyfriend/girlfriend. You surely must be one of those guys/girls thing they are "winners" being all the nights in nightclubs and getting drunk thinking they life rocks when they will be cleaning puke in a Mcdonalds.

[darlingscarling]

why are you even on this site if your gonna make comments like that? I doubt very much that you have a boyfriend or girlfriend yourself. especially when you have a name like that... sorry but "DA" is not a word my friend!

[OMFGrhombus]

Now, now. These wings are kicking, and you aren't about to get a girlfriend from your typing skills. So, don't judge 'em like that. People admire creativity.

[jtobako]

I could comment on this, but I'm to busy with my wife (who was impressed and attracted by my creativity when we met) and my kids (who, mostly, like my creativity). There is an old saying that art critics are failed artists who can't create. Sound right? Now I have to figure out how to set the intermediate 'bones' to create bat/dragon wings...

[toaste]

For intermediate bones, I'd use dowels and attach them to the piece of leather or fabric that you use to limit the extension of the wings. If you choose to cover them with fabric, just attach the extra bones to that. When the fabric pulls taught, the bones will be spaced nice and evenly, and will just fold up when not. If you just want the bare structure, use some string between main bones to attach the lower half of the intermediate bones to.

[jtobako]

I'm picky, I want the bones to spread evenly while opening : ) Most likely with fixed positions along the dowel between hinge 2 and 3, allowing the bones to slide. Or 3 more dowel of different lengths...

[rachel]

I considered this, but the hinge construction I used, with flat pieces of balsa overlapping, made it hard to determine where any intermediate dowels would fit when the wings are closed. A hinge more like that on the Angel Wings would allow intermediate bones.

[yavid]

Yeah I agree jack-in-da-box. Why would you bother making these cool wings that everyone seems to enjoy? Instead you could spend your time making rude comments about other people's creativity. Sounds like a much better use of time! If the only comment you can make is calling something lame then it may be best to keep that comment to your self.

[bizzomephisto]

do you get boyfriends and girlfriends from spelling words like 'the' as "DA" and 'this' as "DIS"?? i think i'd give the wings a chance.

[bugmenot]

It's been my experience that creativity and imagine don't go unnoticed and if they do being with that person would be a waste of time anyway. Whether or not you'll get a relationship out of something is no reason to not be yourself and give up things you like. Besides any person who would ignore you because you're doing something you like isn't worth perusing anyway. Having a relationship isn't worth it if you're going to be miserable because you can't be yourself. 85% of the shit people do in their lives ( including reading his blog ) isn't going to net them a relationship. Should they stop doing all that too?

[TheMadScientist]

I can see myself and three other people either killing, or severely injuring themselves with this. really, it looks THAT fun.

[shooby]

This looks cool, and I bet it looks great with a costume, however I think I'd knock over too many drinks at a Halloween party. Cool for trick or treating though I guess.

[Darkeru]

Theses are amazing!! I just have to make them :) Awesome instructable

[iMake]

I am really impressed! I am soooo going to steal this beautiful design for next Halloween ;)

[MastaAzumarek]

very cool... might use it next halloween... or mayb something might happen who knows...

[aefaradien]

pure awesome! ever since seeing the pic of the dragon deciple in 2rd d&d DMG i wanted to make a set of wareable wings that don't look stupid... and these look fantastic. thanks!

[christopherkerry]

Rachel these are sooo cool! Have you thought about just running a coat of fiber glass resin over the balsa wood? that should add alot of strength and not much weight. just a thought.

[rachel]

I couldn't do that to this pair because I glued the hinge posts to keep them from falling off, so now I can't take the wings apart any more. But it's a good idea for someone else.

[elemental eye]

An interesting approach, and one that can easily be tweaked for other applications. Balsa is good for a prototype, but that's about it. Thanks for the well made Instructable, good detail.

[mechcem]

this is great, but id ad a motor so theyre automatic

[Kinnishian]

Please repost the video on youtube "video not available"

[Zetheros]

The wings will reach all the way to my feet, and I'll have a pulley system so it'll look like I raise my wings with no hands =]

[Zetheros]

now I'm glad that I still have my old hiking backpack =)

[Zetheros]

this just inspired me to make another armor replica, Tyrael, the archangel from diablo 2, thanks.

[rachel]

Oooh, cool, post an Instructable about it! I used to love Diablo 2, played it for years.

[Zetheros]

yeah... I have 3 really nice crafts and costumes that I've been wanting to share, yet I'm too lazy to figure out how to get pictures from the camera to the screen =/

[Darkshot]

WOW GREAT INSTRUCTABLE!!!! ur getin a +1 from me :) i might make these suckers one day too! they look wicked

[fighter pilot]

could you combine it with this: How to Make Angel Wings

[Zetheros]

... but I think I'll use aluminum sheets, highschool is rough.

[Wyzard]

This is beautiful work, I've tried making wings based on that same backpack framework, but mine have been very unsuccessful. These are a far better idea and I will be making a set of my own very soon. Thank you for taking the time to post this instructable.

[rachel]

Thanks for the compliment. Please post pix of yours! And let me know of any improvements you may discover.

[tkastan]

Very cool! My daughter needs new wings for her dragon costume, and these are really great. I'm wondering about the size of the bones and the length of your arms, specifically whether it would be better (smoother motion) to have the bend of your elbow at the joint between bones X and Y, or past the joint like you have them. I'll need to play around with a set to find out, but wouldn't even try without seeing your instructions. Thanks!

[rachel]

I was actually aiming for bone X to fit closely along my upper arm; the distance between its hinges is the distance from my shoulder to my elbow. However the shoulder joint of the backpack turned out too far from my real shoulder for this to fit properly. If you are able to adjust the backpack frame (for me this seemed to need welding) you should be able to get a better fit there. Maybe a smaller backpack frame would have worked... If you do this, please post pictures! I'd love to see how it turns out.

[DeusXMachina]

That is so freaking sweet! I actually got an idea just before reading this to make articulated wings out of those fold-out laundry racks. No where near as slick, but short on time, money, and materials, it works :-P.

[Mr. Squiggles]

This would be awesome- you could add a thin fabric over it to make bat wings!

[Honus]

Excellent- great job and write up! Gotta love a simple mechanical solution..... I'm working on a mechanical jaw/face for a friend's costume but sadly it won't be finished in time for Halloween. :( Another material that would be good to use instead of balsa would be Sintra. A 3mm thick, 4' x 8' sheet costs a little over $30 but that would make a LOT of wings. Sometimes signmaking/plastics shops have scraps sitting around that they'll let you have for free.

[Weissensteinburg]

When I first saw the video, I figured I might as well not even enter the costume part of the Halloween contest...Then I realized you're not allowed to win =]

[Kiteman]

Who says she can't win? It doesn't say so in the rules - I'd be happy if Rachel (or anybody at the Tower) won a contest, as long as they weren't a judge, or if they were simply banned from voting for their own entry, and their entry was actually worthy of winning, as this one could be.

[Weissensteinburg]

It's an instructables policy, anyone who works there can't win 2 weeks (at least, I think it's two weeks) before or after they work there. Josh (muffinator) told me that while he was interning there.

[rachel]

Like judges in the American legal system, we must avoid even the appearance of impropriety.

[Weissensteinburg]

No! Like employees at instructables, Judges in the American legal system must avoid even the appearance of impropriety.

[Kiteman]

Shame! (Never mind, Rachel, post it under my ID, nudge, nudge, wink, wink)

[houseofdarkly]

I've never posted a comment here before so . . . woo. I've seen similar styled designs before (for pneumatic wings), but I have to say: these are just a really elegant design. Pneumatic's great and all, but sometimes it's just so much better to have something simple and so effective. I would love to see how people might "flesh out" the skeleton for it, and I'm probably going to try it myself.

[crapflinger]

...the only thing i could see as a problem....reaching for a beer and having your wings follow you hehe...i could see myself knocking punch bowls over everywhere! hehe great job though!

[gmoon]

Fantastic job, great engineering skills! (just darn cool) Might I suggest using thin plywood (4mm or so) , when these break?

[jongscx]

Laser-cut plexi would work just as fine too...

[jtobako]

Plywood has a problem in thin sections-half the plys have short grain in bands, making it likely to separate. Bamboo would be a better choice.

[gmoon]

With really good boat-building plywood (5-7 veneers), that's not a problem. Cheap 'door skins' or Lauan would be much inferior (but likely stronger than balsa...) But bamboo is a great idea!

[rachel]

I haven't worked with any of these materials but I may have to try. My primary criterion was weight, as noted, and balsa definitely meets that criteria. I'll just have to see how long they last and how sturdy they are. I'm sure they'll get whacked around a bit over the next week!

[jessyratfink]

These are so cool! I'd like to see someone improve upon this for the contest. :P I don't have enough time or I would!

[landru]

That's way cool... and, if I may say so: what a beautiful model! ;-)

[norml]

This is fantastic! I think it would be a great addition to a parade puppet like these http://www.gis.net/~puppetco/. I saw something like this done with carbon or graphite tent poles for a demon costume that went all the way to the floor (but didn't articulate as well).

[Lftndbt]

Awesome! Absolutley AWESOME! The only thing make it out of..... ... ... blah... blah... blah.... whatever!! *jokes* It's great how it is! You have stated why you used it, and it's sounds an appropriate medium to work with! Although a version with Stainless ... then sharped up would be sick... might end you up in jail though.. lol!