http://www.ApogeeRockets.com Customers sometimes ask about the best way to fold a plastic parachute. The answer is that it depends on the weight of your rocket, the parachute size, and how durable you think it is.

In this video, I'll show you two methods that I use when prepping my own rockets for flight. One way will allow the parachute to open really fast, but it puts a bit of extra stress on the shroud line attachment points. I use this technique for lightweight rockets, or if I know the parachute is a bit stronger and more durable. The other way of prepping the parachute allows it to unfurl a little bit slower, which gives the rocket time to reduce speed so that there is less of a snap on the suspension lines. I use it for heavier rockets, or when I'm concerned that the parachute might not be as strong as I'd like.

Do you have a different method? Let us know in the video comments.