What to do after printing the model plans?

1. Prepare Your Workspace and Tools

Set up a flat, clean, well-lit work surface. You’ll need:

  • The printed plan
  • Balsa wood sheets of appropriate thickness
  • A sharp hobby knife (X-Acto, scalpel, or similar)
  • A cutting mat
  • A metal ruler
  • Spray adhesive, masking tape, or pins
  • Optional: carbon paper for transferring outlines

2. Cut Out the Paper Templates

Using scissors, carefully cut out the individual part outlines from the full-size plan. Only cut out the pieces you’ll be working on to avoid confusion or damage.

3. Attach Templates to Balsa Wood

There are several methods you can use to transfer the plan outlines onto the balsa:

A. Spray Adhesive (recommended for precision)
Lightly spray the back of the paper templates with removable spray adhesive. Press them onto the balsa wood. Ensure the template lays flat with no wrinkles or bubbles.

B. Masking Tape or Pins
If you prefer not to use adhesive, tape the template edges or pin the paper directly to the balsa. This works best for larger or simpler pieces.

C. Carbon Paper Transfer
Place carbon paper between the template and balsa wood. Trace over the outlines to transfer the shape onto the wood, then remove the paper and cut.

4. Cut the Balsa Parts

  • Use a sharp hobby knife or scalpel. Always cut on a cutting mat, and use a metal ruler for straight lines.
  • Make several light passes rather than trying to cut through in one go.
  • For curved edges, rotate the balsa, not the knife, to maintain control.
  • Replace your blade often to keep cuts clean.

5. Mirror and Duplicate as Needed

If the plan only shows one side of a symmetrical part (e.g. wing ribs), mirror the template or use a cut piece as a pattern to trace its counterpart.

6. Sand and Label the Parts once cut

  • Lightly sand the edges for accuracy and a better fit.
  • Label each part with a pencil to match the plan references.
  • Group similar parts together for easy access during assembly.

7. Store and Organize

Keep cut parts flat in trays or envelopes. Store remaining templates in a folder for future use or replacements.