How to Make a Model Aeroplane

This is a picture of the flying model you will be making.

These are the items that you will need to build your model aeroplane.

First you need to cut out parts 1 and 2 from the foam, it is recommended that you should only cut out the pieces when you need them.

Now apply glue to part 1. Quick hint, use a glue stick for best results, just a smear will hold the parts together without weighing too much.

Next, you need to stick parts 1 and 2 together as shown in the picture (left).

Now, fold the wings gently where shown to turn up the wing tips. The angle of the fold should be about 30 degrees(see below)

Add a strip of tape across the top and bottom of your wing to resist them from bending in the air. (see above)

Now prepare the motorstick as shown on the right picture. Mark with a soft pencil. Wrap sellotape around the body stick before pushing the pin through the 250 mark, as shown.

Then add the wing support, glue one wing support to touch the pencil mark at 60 milimetres and do the same on the other side.

Then add the wing support, glue one wing support to touch the pencil mark at 60 milimetres and do the same on the other side.

Then cut out part five and fold it long ways, after, put it in between the wing supports and let the glue dry.

Cut out the parts the you have left and assemble them as in this picture (see left).

Part 1: Building the wing and stabilizer

Building the wing. A piece of foam plastic is used as a building board. The parts are held in place by pins, but the pins are never pushed through the parts themselves, as that would unduly weaken them. Instead, balsa and carton pieces are pinned next to the spars to support them. Note the use of long carton pieces as rulers to support the spars and ensure that they stay straight.

Closeup

The completed wing frame. Weight: 0.40 grams.

The wing is covered with lightweight mylar. This extremely thin plastic film can be very difficult to handle due to its fragility and static cling. There are a number of different techniques to cover the wing. The simplest is simply to flatten out the film on plane surface and drop the pre-glued wing frame onto the covering. The works well with flat wing, but is more difficult for wings with a curved profile. To make the covering process easier, Torstensson uses this "cradle" made of hardwood, with balsa rails to fix the film onto.