How to Build a Toy Sailplane

Build small sailplanes for younger hands and larger planes for adults.

Building a toy sailplane, more commonly known as a glider, is a project that provides parents and children with an opportunity to grow closer while working toward a common goal. After completing the work, a toy sailplane continues providing opportunities for additional bonding time after school and on weekends as families fly planes together in their yards or at a neighborhood park. Unlike kites, sailplanes do not require a substantial amount of wind to fly, making them a good choice for outdoor playtime all year long.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Scissors
• Balsa wood
• Craft knife
• Wood glue

Instructions

1. Draw a straight line on a sheet of paper with a pencil for the base of the fuselage. The line may be any desired length, but 6 inches to 8 inches is usually best. Freehand draw the top of the fuselage on the line. It should have a raised tail for maximum flight length. Cut out your stencil.

2. Place the stencil on balsa wood and trace. Cut out the fuselage with a craft knife.

3. Cut a 1-inch slit in the rear of the fuselage under the raised tail and a 2-inch slit near the middle of the plane for the main wing.

4. Mark a 3-inch by 1-inch rectangle and a 6-inch by 2-inch strip on the balsa wood for the sailplane's tail and wing. Locate the center of a long edge on the tail and wing. Taper the edge slightly from the center point so each piece resembles a rectangle with an obtuse triangle on top. This will decrease wind resistance.

5. Cut out the wing and tail. Insert into the slits and center. Attach with wood glue.

Tips & Warnings

• Mount a paperclip on the plane's nose if it shoots up and stalls when you try to fly it.

• Use a paperclip on the rear of the plane if it drops too quickly.

References

• Eric Brasseur: Basics of Toy Glider Physics