"Enthralled with origami from a young age, master designer Michael LaFosse has used those skills to design and perfect paper airplanes for decades. In Planes for Brains, LaFosse presents 28 original models that incorporate innovative functional and aesthetic details--like faceted flaps, ailerons, canards and spoilers that really work. The sense of proportion and balance, and an ingenious nose and fuselage locking system, define these signature models, which are sure to become instant classics. In addition to teaching the skills to create the planes, this book provides expert advice on: * How to select and prepare the best folding paper for each plane * How to balance aesthetics, performance and fun when designing your own planes * Helpful tips on control surfaces, and how to manipulate them for the best flights * Tips on launching different types of planes to get the best possible glide * A discussion of aerodynamics and how it relates to paper airplane performance "--

"Origami airplane master designer Michael LaFosse proudly presents this collection of 28 exciting models, which he has developed and perfected over a period of several decades. All the planes are great to fly and fun to fold, and boast elegant, timeless lines. The incorporation of innovative functional and aesthetic details--like faceted flaps, ailerons, canards and spoilers that really work--are the hallmarks of LaFosse airplanes! The sense of proportion and balance, and an ingenious nose and fuselage locking system, define these signature models, which are sure to become instant classics. This book contains detailed step-by-step instructions for different styles of planes that exhibit unique behaviors: * Graceful broad wings like the Art Deco Wing appear to float in mid-air forever * Solid darts like the Fuselage-Lock Sweet Dart zip along with impressive accuracy * Stylish hybrids like the Chuck Finn and the Nifty-Fifty evoke space vehicles or 1950s finned automobiles In addition to teaching you to make the planes, the book engages readers' minds with expert advice on: * How to select and prepare the best folding paper for each plane * How to balance aesthetics, performance and fun when designing your own planes * Helpful tips on control surfaces, and how to manipulate them for the best flights * Tips on launching different types of planes to get the best possible glide * A discussion of aerodynamics and how it relates to paper airplane performance *A glossary of technical terms, material resources, and much more! The folding fun stays aloft with a companion DVD containing video origami lessons for all of the projects in the book. Pause and replay the steps as needed and let Michael LaFosse guide you through the lesson for each airplane at your own pace"--