How to build a simple model plane
Purchase kits
No experience or tools needed! Just add glue! Then follow video instructions below. |
or make parts yourself.
Visit your local hobby and craft stores for materials. You will need tools to cut balsa. Parts list is in the instruction sheet. Then follow the video instructions below. |
Don't hesitate to contact Darcy for help or to provide feedback.
Video series on how to build your Squirrel
Now that you've purchased a kit or are satisfied that you have made all the parts it's time to bring your project to life!
For each step please study the step all the way through before starting. Watch the video and study any pictures and text that are provided.
Here is a picture of what the parts for making a Squirrel look like. For a list of their dimensions see the Instruction Sheet.
You'll also need an ordinary glue stick, some craft glue such as Eleen's Tacky Glue (available at any craft store) and a pair of scissor.
Other white glues such as carpenter glue and other variations should work too but they may be slow to dry.
Welcome to the most elegant and inexpensive form of model aviation! Have fun!
Step 1: Lay out tissue paper
How to organize the workspace.
Place your drinks, parts, materials, glue and scissors furthest from you to form the first layer.
Form the next layer by laying out tissue for the wing.
Lay out tissue for the tail planes closest to you to form the third layer.
Tip: If you crumple the Wing tissuee it will be more immune to warping.
Advanced Tip: Check out the "tips" section for cool hints and ways to personalize your Squirrel!
Step 2: Wing Leading Edge
Adding the leading edge (LE).
Glue it on the front edge of the tissue. Be sure to leave two inches of extra tissue on each side.
Step 3: Wing Tips
Wing Tip installation.
In this step, we use the glue stick to glue the Wing Tips to the tissue and Craft Glue to glue to the Leading Edge.
Add the Glue Stick first then the White Glue to the end of each piece. Be sure to get a firm wood to wood glue joint by pressing them against the Leading Edge of the Wing.
IMPORTANT: Never apply craft glue directly from the bottle. Put a blob on the glue stick cap and use a toothpick to transfer it to the model. If the right amount of glue is used it will dry in minutes. If you use too much glue it may take hours to dry and add excess weight to your model. Cyanoacrylates (CA, Super glue and such) may work but are very dangerous and are not suitable for children.
