How to Make an Air Glider Model

Glider models have the same basic components as real airplanes.

Glider models come in a variety of materials and levels of complexity. The simplest glider models are made mostly of balsa wood or craft plywood and come in pre die-cut pieces. More complex models may have different materials but all models require careful sanding and gluing of parts. Follow these general guidelines for a great finished glider.

Things You'll Need

• Air glider model kit
• Wood glue
• Razor knife
• Sand paper
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Use a razor knife to remove pre-cut parts without splintering them. Find the uncut border tabs and carefully separate the pieces from the background with the razor knife.

2. Use fine sandpaper to smooth the edges of the pieces. Do not sand joints that are going to be glued because you want the pieces to fit as snugly as possible. Be careful not to get splinters while doing this.

3. Make an airfoil on the wing surfaces. Sand the top of the leading edge of the wing round, leaving the bottom edge mostly flat. Sand the trailing edge with a longer taper along the top, again leaving the bottom edge mostly flat. Remember not to sand the surface that will join to the fuselage.

4. Taper the tail surfaces. Sand the leading edges smooth and symmetric on the top and bottom. Sand the trailing edges with a longer taper, also symmetric on the top and bottom. Do not sand the surface that will be glued to the fuselage.

5. Fit the parts together before you try to glue them to make sure they fit correctly. Sand away any parts that interfere with a good fit.

6. Glue the wing to the fuselage. Mark the center of the wing with a pencil line where it will be glued to the fuselage. If the wing fits in a slot in the fuselage, put it in through one side. Apply the glue just to the side of the line that is closest to the fuselage. Gently push the wing into place so the glue slides between the wing and fuselage.

7. Repeat step 6 for other parts such as the tail that have to be glued together. Make sure that the parts fit straight and remain straight while the glue is drying.

8. Add filets of glue for extra strength. A filet is a line of glue that is applied on the external joints to give them extra strength. The filet should fit in the corners of the joints like caulk in a window or bathtub.

Tips & Warnings

• Foam glider models require less or no sanding. Make sure you use a water-based glue to glue them together as other solvent-based glues will dissolve the foam.

References

• f4b Scale Magic: Hand Launched Glider Plans

Resources

• Glider Plans