Welcome to my “Balsa RC Model Builders Page.” Every project featured here is one of my hand built balsa RC aircraft. I've been building RC models for more than 37 years — starting with kits, then gradually shifting to scratch building. In fact, all but one of my last twenty aircraft were built entirely from scratch.

 Working with balsa, plywood, and a set of 2–D plans has always fascinated me. There's something special about watching those flat drawings transform into a fully functional 3-D flying model. Through the build descriptions I share here, my goal is to help other RC modelers avoid some of the pitfalls and mistakes I've encountered along the way (and still run into from time to time).

 If you ever have questions during your own scratch-build projects, I'm always happy to help however I can.

 If you are serious about trying to build your own Balsa RC model aircraft, you should look at the "Magnetic Build Board" section I have on this page. It contains the link to "Airfield Models". Airfield Models has really great information on building Balsa models. I also provided you with the link to "RCPlanes.Online". RCPlane.Online has a great CG calculator along with various other calculation programs you might need for building your own RC models.

 "Aerofred.com" and "Outerzone.co.uk" are two of my favorite web sites to obtain RC model airplane plans for new scratch builds. Additionally, they like to post images of Builder's models, and both sites have posted my RC model images and build descriptions under the heading of the associated aircraft model. Other good sources for plans are: "Hip Pocket Aeronautics Builders' Plan Gallery", "Vintage & Old-Timer RCM Free Plans", "James Hatton Blog Free Plans and Articles", "Hlsat Blog RCModeler Free Plans and Articles", and "Don Dewey Memorial RCM Plans Collection."

 To aid in getting the plans you download to a set of full-size plans, I highly recommend you take the time to view a great 2-part video series produced by Mark Robinson titled "Download & Print Plans - Balsa Model Airplane Building". He also has an excellent 3-part video titled "Building from Plans:". Another good 3-part video series on finding, reading, and using plans to build an RC model is available from Joyplanes @: Plans for RC Aircraft Masterclass. I also recommend your use PDF X to view/edit and print your RC model plans.

 NOTE - You can view all images using a “Spotlight Box” by simply clicking on any image.

Douglas A-26 Invader Scratch Build

  Having completed my scratch build of a 1/15th Semi-Scale USAF OA-1K Skyraider II, I wanted to try and see what I could come up with in the way of a twin engine post WWII ground attack aircraft to add to my military collection. In doing research for my May 2026 “Build of the Month” Edition, I ended up selecting the Douglas A-26 Invader. After looking through and reading all the material for the BOTM Edition, I decided I would set off to try and develop a set of plans for a 1/15th Semi-Scale Douglas A-26 Invader, and then attempt a balsa scratch build as my next project.

  First, a little history on the actual Douglas A-26 Invader. The Douglas A-26 Invader (designated B-26 between 1948 and 1965) is an American twin-engine light bomber and ground attack aircraft. Built by Douglas Aircraft Company during World War II, the Invader also saw service during several major Cold War conflicts. A limited number of highly modified United States Air Force aircraft served in Southeast Asia until 1969. Not only was it a fast aircraft capable of carrying a large bomb load, but it could also be fitted to produce a formidable ground-attack aircraft.

  The Counter Invader was a highly modified version of the Douglas A-26 Invader, a World War II attack bomber. Redesignated B-26 in 1948, the Invader served again during the Korean War (1950-1953), mainly as a night intruder against North Korean supply lines. It was removed from service in 1958, but in 1961 the USAF recalled many Invaders for use as tactical bombers in Southeast Asia. Combat duty and two decades of wear took their toll, and in 1964 the B-26s again were removed from service.

  In 1966 the old bomber was resurrected once more when the improved B-26K Counter Invader returned to Southeast Asia for ground-attack missions along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Modified by On Mark Engineering, the B-26K had a rebuilt fuselage and tail, strengthened wings, improved engines, reversible propellers, wing-tip fuel tanks and other refinements. Redesignated A-26As, Counter Invaders remained in Southeast Asia until 1969 and retired from USAF service.

Source of Images: Wikipedia and Airvectors.

• Actual Douglas A-26 Invader Specifications:
• Crew: 3
• Wingspan: 70 ft (21 m)
• Length: 50 ft (15 m)
• Height: 18 ft 6 in (5.64 m)
• Wing area: 540 sq ft (50 m2)
• Airfoil: NACA 65-215
• Empty weight: 22,370 lb (10,147 kg)
• Gross weight: 27,600 lb (12,519 kg)
• Max takeoff weight: 35,000 lb (15,876 kg)
• Fuel capacity: 925 US gal (770 imp gal; 3,500 L) normal + optional 675 US gal (562 imp gal; 2,560 L) ferry tank in the bomb bay; Oil capacity 60 US gal (50 imp gal; 230 L) in two nacelle tanks
• Powerplant: 2 ea. Pratt & Whitney R-2800-27, -71, or -79 Double Wasp 18-cylinder air-cooled two-row radial piston engines, 2,000 hp (1,500 kW) each for take-off
• Propellers: 3-bladed Hamilton Standard Hydromatic, 12 ft 7 in (3.84 m) diameter constant-speed fully-feathering propellers
• Maximum speed: 359 mph (578 km/h, 312 kn) at 16,700 ft (5,100 m) (normal rated power)
• Cruise speed: 266 mph (428 km/h, 231 kn) at 5,000 ft (1,500 m) (62.5% rated power)
• Range: 1,600 mi (2,600 km, 1,400 nmi) without ferry tank at 5,000 ft (1,500 m) at 206 mph (179 kn; 332 km/h)
• Combat range: 700 mi (1,100 km, 610 nmi)
• Ferry range: 3,000 mi (4,800 km, 2,600 nmi) with ferry tank at 5,000 ft (1,500 m) at 210 mph (180 kn; 340 km/h)
• Service ceiling: 28,500 ft (8,700 m) ; 14,400 ft (4,400 m) on one engine
• Armament
• Guns: 6 or 8 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 Browning machine guns in solid, "all purpose" nose: or 2 ea. 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 machine guns in glass "bombardier" nose
• Up to 8 ea. 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 machine guns paired in four optional under wing pods: or 3 ea. 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 machine guns in each outer wing panel
• 2 ea. 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 machine guns in remote-controlled dorsal turret
• 2 ea. 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 machine guns in remote-controlled ventral turret
• Rockets: Up to 10 ea. 5-inch (12.7 cm) HVAR rockets on "zero length" launch pylons, five under each outer wing panel
• Bombs: Up to 6,000 lb (2,700 kg) capacity - 4,000 lb (1,800 kg) in the bomb bay plus 2,000 lb (910 kg) carried externally on underwing hardpoints

  This updated posting is as of 9 March 2026, and for those who have not been following my regular webpage updates, you can read my Latest Version of my 1/15th Semi-Scale Douglas A-26 Invader Build Description to see everything I have been through up to this point.

1/15th Semi-Scale A-26 Invader Plans Development

  The A-26 Invader RC model designed by Dick Sarpolus that will be in my May 2026 BOTM Edition can be built from a set of plans and article which are available on the Outerzone A-26 Invader (oz10379) webpage. I also found a larger (100″ wing span, twin .45-.60 two-stroke engines) A-26 Invader RC model, designed by Gary Fuller, with a set of plans and RCM article at Aerofred, or Outerzone. I used these RC model plans, and my plans from previous scratch builds, as sources for my 1/15th scale plan design approach/details, material selection/sizing, etc.

  I first needed to set up the sizing for my 1/15th scale plans. Using the 3-view drawing below, I converted the full scale measurements to 1/15th scale for my RC model A-26 Intruder measurements. This worked out as follows: Full Scale Wingspan: 70 ft (21.3 m), 1/15th scale – 56 in. (1,422 mm); Full Scale Length: 50 ft 9in (15.47 m), 1/15th scale – 40.6 in. (1,031 mm); and Full Scale Height: 18 ft (5.49 m), 1/15th scale – 14.4 in. (366 mm).

Source of Image: Wikipedia.

  Alright, with my initial RC model size and power system established, my next step was to start putting some “pencil to paper” and draw up some plans. With the days of using a ruler, pencil, and paper to make my model plans now all in the distant past, I start out this design exercise using my trusty 2D computer drawing program Back To The Drawing Board. I also plan to generate some 3D printed parts for this project, and once I get to that stage of the design I'll move over to my 3D computer program Autodesk Fusion 360. Autodesk offers a 100% free Fusion 360 license to Students and Hobbyists. I'm working with the free version using a Personal Use license.

A-26 Invader Power System Selection

  I'm going to make an initial assumption that the total weight (ready to fly) for my A-26 Invader will come out in the range of 2,500 – 2,800 grams (88-99 oz.). With this model being somewhere between a sport flyer and warbird flyer, I'm going to use another initial assumption that the power system will need to produce 125-150 watts/lb., or somewhere around 930 watts total.   I like using the performance data charts that can be found on the Innov8tive Design Website (https://innov8tivedesigns.com/). Using that and needing a total of 930 watts of power (or 465 watts for each motor), that puts the power system somewhere in the range of a .25 glow engine, or the BadAss 2814 Series of motors. The BadAss 2814-980Kv specifications state a Max Continuous Power (with 3-cell Li-Po) of 510 watts (each motor) at Maximum Continuous Current of 46 amps. The 2814-980Kv motor performance data chart lists data for a Master Air Screw (MAS) 10x7 3-blade prop using a 3S battery pulling 28.0 amps and producing 1,492 grams (52.6 oz.) of thrust at 8,471 RPM. So, my BadAss Power System is comprised of the following components: - 2ea. Motors: BadAss 2814-980Kv Brushless; 2 ea. ESCs: BadAss Rebel V2 Series Brushless, 50A; 2ea. Batteries: BadAss 45C 3,300mah 3S LiPo; 2 ea. Props: MAS 9x7 3-Blade. This Power System will provide a total power of 2,984 grams (105.2 oz.), which should give approx. a 1:1 power to weight ratio.

  My first step was to get an initial outline and measurements for each major component of my RC scale model. Using another 3-view drawing with sufficient details for modeling, I traced outlines for the fuselage, wing, nacelle's, horizontal & vertical stabilizers (I call them tail feathers), and tires. This is shown in an image below. The outlines were then copied into separate plan sheets for each major model component.

Source of Image: Drawing Database A-26 Webpage.

  Now the real fun starts. As indicated earlier, I used other A-26 model plans and “modified“ model plans I have worked from for my other scratch builds (like the OA-1K Skyraider II) and started to lay out the various plans for my A-26 Intruder. Being the tail feathers were fairly simple; this is where I started my first plan sheet. After a few hours at my desktop computer keyboard/mouse each morning, the results of my efforts are displayed below.

  Next up was the fuselage. Since the other A-26 plans were all designed using nitro engines, and I wanted to use an electric power system, I first needed to decide where the various power system components would be placed. I debated over LiPo and ESCs in the fuselage versus in each nacelle, and after placing images of the components in each model component plan sheet, I decided a LiPo & ESC would go in each motor nacelle with access for LiPo installation from the bottom of the nacelle. With that finalized I pressed forward with the fuselage plan sheet. Here I debated using full balsa sheets versus narrow balsa strips to cover the outside of the fuselage formers, and my initial design used the full sheets approach. This then drives using fuselage formers that are basically rectangles with rounded corners and not a “true representation” of the actual A-26 fuselage shape, hence a “semi-scale” model design. Another debate was to use retractable gear versus the standard bent music wire landing gear arrangement. With my 1/15th Scale A-26 design being fairly small for a twin engine model, I elected not trying to squeeze retracts into the motor nacelle's since they are already filled with the LiPo/ESCs.

  Again, after many hours at my desktop computer keyboard/mouse each morning, the results of my initial fuselage plan are displayed in the next two images below. As seen in the top plan, the wing/nacelle's assembly is attached to the fuselage from above and held in place using forward/aft wing attachment bolts from below.

  The fuselage plan cannot be finalized until the wing plan is finished. Because the A-26 wing has a triple taper (angled leading/trailing edges with a reduced thickness from root to tip), and a small dihedral, the rib profile at the wing centerline (R1) is different from the rib profile (R2) where the wing passes through the sides of the fuselage, and each are at different heights from the bottom of the fuselage (as seen in the fuselage cross section at F-6 in the image above). The A-26 RC model plans I found on the web did not seem to address these differences and used only the centerline wing profile in the plan as seen in the image above. All my fuselage templates in the image below were adjusted to try and match the fuselage wing pass through opening to that of wing rib profile R2, and at the correct height.

  With the fuselage plan nearly completed, I moved on to draw up a wing plan. Starting with the wing outline, measurements from the detailed 3-view drawings, some of the other A-26 plans wing design elements, review of my other scratch build plans, and many hours of working at my computer station, the results of all this work “as of this moment” are shown in the image below. Note — I still have some more work to complete on this plan before I can call it finished.

  Stay tuned for more to come!!!

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USAF OA-1K Skyraider II Scratch Build

  Having served 24 years in the US Air Force, I tend to keep track of new USAF developments, especially when it comes to new aircraft. One that caught my attention was the new OA-1K Skyraider II. The Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) marked a new chapter with its latest aircraft on 3 April 2025 when the first Skyraider II fully modified for military use arrived at Hurlburt Field, Fl. Additional OA-1K aircraft will flow from the L3Harris production line to Will Rogers Air National Guard Base, Ok. where the Skyraider II formal training unit is located.

  Check out a nice video showing many close-up views of the OA-1K at Hurlburt Field, FL @: Introducing the new OA-1K Skyraider Il Special Operations Aircraft.

  For a Semi-Scale scratch build of the OA-1K Skyraider II, my starting point was the Airtractor AT-802. I was able to find a set of plans from the AeroFred Airtractor AT-802 Webpage for a 46.5″ wingspan (approx. 1/15th scale) electric-powered model designed by Chalepmpol Hamaunsa.

  Using these plans I made many modifications that better represent the actual design of the OA-1K. You can see some of these modification in the second image to the right. A detailed explanation of all the various model plan changes are captured in my build description and my OA-1K plans. To power this little beast I selected a BadAss Power System that puts out 680 watts and is comprised of the following components — Motor: BadAss 2814-980Kv Brushless; ESC: BadAss Rebel V2 Series Brushless ESC, 50A; Battery: BadAss 45C 2,600mah 4S LiPo; Prop: MAS 9x7 3-Blade Prop. This will provide a power ratio of approx. 1:1 for my Skyraider II. I purchased my power system from Innov8tive Designs.

  The major difference for this scratch build from my other builds was the introduction of 3D modeling and printing. For my OA-1K model I purchased a Creality Ender-3 V3 3D printer, and learned how to build 3D models (like that in the third image to the right) using Autodesk Fusion 360. In addition to the nose cone, the prop spinner, communication system antennas, horizontal stab strake's, pilot & mission payload operator busts, various cooling air scoops/vents/grills, wing weapon hardpoint rails, pylons, and all “External Stores” were also 3D printed.

  Well, all I need now is for the North Carolina weather to warm up to melt all the ice and snow on the ground, and then maybe I will try and see if I can keep from destroying my OA-1K attempting a first flight. More to come!!

 If you have any questions about this build, please feel free to send me an email @: OA-1K.

OA-1K Skyraider II Build Description.

OA-1K Skyraider II Plans in .PDF format.

OA-1K Skyraider II Plans in .DXF format.

OA-1K Skyraider II 3D Printed Parts in .STL format.

See All Images Taken During my OA-1K Skyraider II Scratch Build.

See All 3D Modeling Efforts for my OA-1K Skyraider II Scratch Build.

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Andy Clancy's Stagger Bee

 The Stagger Bee captures the special classic grace of a Stagger-wing Beechcraft. Andy's original design is a fun 29″ top and 23.5″ bottom wingspan three channel sport biplane, which is still very much a Bee. You know: Oversized control surfaces, hands-off stability, very low minimum flying speed, and easy aerobatics. The Stagger Bee is just a Bee that is a biplane. It can manage having more power than a Lazy Bee.

 I started my Stagger Bee scratch build using a great set of Andy Clancy Aviation Stagger Bee plans, assembly manual, and an RCM review that you can download from: Aerofred Stagger Bee Webpage, and/or Outerzone Stagger Bee Webpage.

 Also, please check out this link to "Andy Clancy Designs"

 For my Stagger Bee scratch build, I made several modifications to Andy's plans. These included bolt-on wings and wheel skirts; increased the top wingspan to 37″ and added flaperons; and permanent installation of the tail feathers with a steerable tailwheel. You can see these modification in the first three images to the left. To power this little beauty I used a BadAss Power System that puts out 566 watts, which is equivalent to a .25 two-cycle glow engine. Yes, I built an electric powered model. I know that is hard to believe. This BadAss Power System is comprised of the following components: - Motor: BadAss 2814-1560Kv Brushless; ESC: BadAss Rebel V2 Series Brushless ESC, 60A; Battery: BadAss 45C 3,300mah 3S LiPo; Prop: APC 9x6 E-Series. You can purchase the system from Innov8tive Designs.

 If you have any questions about this build, please feel free to send me an email @: Stagger Bee.

 Well, one thing I learned a long, long time ago was that if you are going to stay with this hobby, you need to accept the downs that will come sooner or later. Things happen which can result in your model needing a minor repair, or some major repairs, or even a total loss of the model. Such is the case with my Stagger Bee. First flight did NOT go well, and I had to build a new modified fuselage as a result of one wild first flight. On the good side, both of the wings, all tail feathers, and all flight hardware (except the prop) were recoverable and used in my rebuild.

 You can read more about the WILD first flight and read about my new Stagger Bee II extender fuselage build (third from bottom left image) in the updated build description below.

New Updated Version of My Stagger Bee Build Description.

Stagger Bee Materials and Hardware List.

Full Size Modified Wing Ribs in a PDF file.

See All Images Taken During this Stagger Bee Scratch Build.

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Miss Vintage

 While working on the coding for the April 2024 edition of my “Build of the Month” Series, I found the model selection so interesting that I decided to build one for myself. Changes I made to the original design are discussed in my “Miss Vintage Build Description” which you can download using the link provided below.

 Miss Vintage is a thoroughly tested and practical machine. Designed around the economical .25 to .35 sized RC engines, it duplicates the looks and slow, deliberate flight characteristics, and realism of an old-timer. It is completely reliable, easy to fly and designed to look complicated and yet be quick and economical to construct.

 Wing construction is a snap with a high lift flat bottom airfoil for easy building on a flat surface. Half ribs and diagonal braces are used for strength as well as looks. Ailerons are of the simple and effective strip type, making the choice of three or four channels an easy one for the builder. Little extra effort is required to add ailerons. The fuselage is constructed almost entirely of hardwood. Fuselage sides are cut from 1/8th Lite Ply and are as light as balsa with far greater strength. The open framework is built from 3/16th square spruce which is also very light and strong. The only balsa contained in the fuselage is one bulkhead and the top block. Miss Vintage is a real showstopper guaranteed to attract attention from fellow RC'ers and spectators alike.

 Flying capabilities are extremely good. Miss Vintage is capable of many aerobatics including inverted flight and yet is very gentle and easy to fly. Because of the easy take-off and landing characteristics, Miss Vintage could be used as a trainer and first airplane. On the maiden flight of my Miss Vintage, she only needed a couple clicks of down elevator and then flew great. If you have built at least one RC plane and understand basic construction techniques, you can build a Miss Vintage.

 If you have any questions about this build, please feel free to send me an email @: Miss Vintage.

 My Miss Vintage was built from a great set of Radio Control Modeler (RCM) plans, article, and a review which can be found @: “AeroFred” and/or “Outerzone” and you can download them from:

AeroFred Miss Vintage (plan ID 96793) Webpage.

Outerzone Miss Vintage (oz4746) Webpage.

My Miss Vintage Build Description.

Miss Vintage Materials and Hardware List.

See All Images Taken During the Miss Vintage Scratch Build.

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AMTN Beechcraft Starship

 I was contacted by a flying club friend who asked me if I would be interested in building him a new kit he wanted to purchase. Even though this would not be a scratch-build, I was very interested in the kit because I felt I could use the wing and fuselage design to aid me in coming up with a set of plans for the JetZero BWB RC model I discuss further down on this webpage.

 The AMTN kit shown in the top image to the left, and the HIMARK Aircraft Mechanics Electric Retracts were brought to me on 5 April 2024. A "Callie-Graphics" package was used for most of the decals. As you can see in the two images of my completed build to the left, she is a very unique aircraft indeed.

 You can see more images and read additional information about the kit @: AMTN Starship. There also is a GREAT multi-part “Plane Fun R/C Channel” Build Log by Saul that you can view @: Starship Build.

 We made several modifications to the AMTN kit. The major one was moving the two motor LiPos and ESCs from inside the motor mounts forward to a large fuselage bay area located under the cockpit canopy. This required that we move the receiver from that upper bay to a new bay which we created on the bottom side of the fuselage. All kit modifications are covered in my build description.

 My build of the AMTN kit was completed on 3 August 2024. Our Starship is powered by two Sunnysky X3120-KV880 motors using two Spektrum SPMXAE1060 ESCs and two SMC 4S 2,800mah 45C LiPos. Man, those Sunnysky X3120-KV880 motors turning 10x9 Scimitar 5 Blade Props put out some tremendous thrust. Model flight control is provided using a Spektrum AR8360T, AS3X and SAFE, 8 Channel Receiver, with Blue Bird BMS-127WV+ servos for both elevators and ailerons, and a Hitec HS-5087MH servo for NLG steering. The covering is Ultracoat Gloss White with the fiberglass motor cowlings and plastic cockpit canopy painted with Krylon Gloss White and Rust-Oleum Clear High Gloss spray paint. Final total “ready-to-fly” weight came out right at 6,353 grams (14 pounds). Considering this RC model has an overall wingspan of 2,000mm (78.7″); canard span of 860mm (33.9″); a total length of 1,600mm (63″); all the internal structure built using 3mm Lite ply which is then totally sheeted with 1.5mm balsa; add three mechanics electric retracts, two large motors, two ESCs, and two LiPo battery packs, that's not too bad.

 Latest update received from David on 24 Aug 2024. As you can see in the two bottom images, he has installed his Spektrum AR8360T receiver with all eight data ports and the remote receiver port filled. He indicated he has installed the batteries, verified all the servos are correct to the flight control mapping he established for the Starship, set all control throw directions and travel. You can also see the two antenna leads will go into small plastic tubes to ensure they remain 90 degrees to each other. More to come from David, I'm sure.

 Should you have any questions about this build, please feel free to send me an email @: Starship.

AMTN Beechcraft Starship Website.

My Starship Build Description with LOTS of Builders Notes.

See All Images Taken During the Starship Build.

AWESOME RCGroups.com Build Log of a Quarter Scale Starship.

Andy Clancy's Speedy Bee

 After publishing the August 2023 Edition of my "Build of the Month" Series, I decided to start yet another scratch build to keep me busy over the winter months, and that being the Andy Clancy Speedy Bee. As I worked through my scratch build, I posted new build images such as those to the right, and update my build description which you can obtain via the link provided below. After finishing my build I made the decision to change the main landing gear from the rubber band suspension per the plans to an oil filled shocks/springs suspension.

 Maiden flight finally accomplished on 2 May 2024. Had to make an adjustment to the elevator setting, but after that she flies great. The balloon tires and Traxxas oil filled shocks/springs make landings nice and smooth and the ground handling is well behaved. Overall, a fun plane and this one will see lots of flying. I hope you will enjoy this scratch build as much as I did. If you have any questions, just send me an email.

 My Speedy Bee was built from a great set of Andy Clancy plans and assembly manual, and RCM article, which are available from: Outerzone Speedy Bee Webpage; and/or Aerofred Speedy Bee Webpage.

Final Version of My Build Description.

See All Images Taken During this Speedy Bee Scratch Build.

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1929 Velie Monocoupe

 The Velie Monocoupe Model 70 was one of the first airplanes ever built for private fliers. A total of 350 Velie Monocoupe were built from 1927-1929. The Velie Monocoupe was a wooden framed, doped fabric-covered monoplane, seating two people side-by-side in an enclosed cabin (hence the name). Conceived by pilot/businessman Don A. Luscombe, who developed a mock-up in 1926, and developed into a flying airplane by farmer-turned-plane-designer Clayton Folkerts—first produced by Central States Aircraft Corp in Davenport, Iowa—the little plane was a revolution in personal aviation: small, relatively inexpensive, quick, and efficient (70-80 mph on just 55 horsepower), and with an enclosed cockpit (protected from the weather) for two people. In an era of big, costly, lumbering, open-cockpit biplanes, the Monocoupe was like a flying sports car coupe. Powered by the little 55 hp Velie five-cylinder air-cooled radial engine and a wingspan of 32’, the model 70 Monocoupe was a very successful airplane. The company sold so many units in 1928 that they were able to claim that 80 percent of the civilian airplanes sold in the U.S. in that year were Monocoupes.

 The free 1929 Velie Monocoupe plan and article were downloaded from "Aerofred.com" and are also available from "Outerzone.co.uk." The Velie in this build was designed by Jack de Vries, Colonel U.S.A.F., and the article is from a January 1973 Radio Control Modeler (RCM) magazine. This 40-size version has a wingspan of 66", an overall fuselage length of 45", and is designed for a .30 - .60 cu. in. engine. I installed a Thunder Tiger .54 4-stroke my father used many years ago. With the wing being longer than my magnetic build board, this build will be accomplished using the old wood build board pin-in-place method. The Velie is a good stick build for anyone with some basic woodworking skills, but I would not say it should be considered for your first scratch build project. While doing some web research for my build I came across a very nice build log on "RCGroups.com" for the same plans. Reading thru that post I learned some new (for me) build methods which I adopted in my build.

 The images on the left are: top - a 1929 Velie Monocoupe Model 113 from Aerial Visuals; 2nd - my Velie RC model fit checks; 3rd & 4th - my completed Velie RC model; bottom - my fathers 1932 Monocoupe Model 90 at the 1963 AAA fly-in, and yes that is me with my father who restored N429N, which is now on display at the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome, Rhinebeck, New York.

 My Velie was built from a great set of plans and RCM article, which are available from: Outerzone Velie Webpage; and/or Aerofred Velie Webpage.

My Velie Build Description.

See All Images Taken During this Velie Scratch Build.

Old School Build

 Here are a couple images that show some “old school” building techniques. These are from my 1929 Velie Monocoupe that I started in winter 2022, and was completed in March 2023.

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STOL Pigeon

 The free STOL Pigeon plan and article were downloaded from "Aerofred.com." This is a GREAT site to obtain plans for scratch builds.

 The construction of this model is very straightforward. Simplified wings give all of you scratch builders a well-deserved break. The ribs are spaced as far apart as practical, and the wings are identical in all respects. The rib spacing allows a mere 38 ribs to be used for both wings. That number is very close to most 2-meter gliders, but remember, you get all the nostalgia of two wings for the building time of one.

 This is a great plane for the first-time scratch builder to build and fly. I modified the plans to use "bolt-on" wings (template found on “BalsaWorkbench.com”,) increased the rudder by 30%, extended both wings to 48" removed the dihedral, and put an O.S. .35 2-cycle in for power.

 I used five channels in this airplane but that is not to say fewer could not be used. This biplane has been flown on three channels and it even does well on two channels. The reason for the five channels in my aircraft is that I tend to get frustrated with a slow aircraft if I can't do aerobatics and have lots of functions to play with.

 First step in most of my builds is to print out a copy of the full-size plan on my Canon printer using the "poster" settings, and then put all the pages together for an overall 77" x 42.5" plan on two sheets. You can also get the plan printed out at Fed Ex for around $25 a copy. Having the full-size plan, I then went thru and determined all the materials I would need to make the build. Any balsa sticks and sheets, basswood or plywood needed were ordered from Balsa USA.

 My STOL Pigeon was built from a great set of plans and RCM article, which are available from: Outerzone STOL Pigeon Webpage; and/or Aerofred STOL Pigeon Webpage.

My S.T.O.L. Pigeon Build Description.

See All Images Taken During my S.T.O.L. Pigeon Scratch Build.

Junior Telemaster

 You want a scratch build that is very simple, will not require a lot of materials, and results in a GREAT trainer? Then this little balsa and ply RC model is just what you want to try. Anyone that has been to an RC flying field has probably seen some version of a Telemaster in one size or another. The Telemaster is a classic RC design that thousands of modelers have built and flown for generations. An exclusive mainstay of the Hobby Lobby brand, anyone who learned to fly in the 1960s, '70s, or '80s knows that the Telemaster in its various sizes is a popular, easy-to-build, great-flying airplane. Even today, if you have not actually flown one, you certainly know someone who has. Originally produced by Alexander Engel of Germany and imported to the United States by Hobby Lobby International in the late '60s, the Telemaster spawned three versions of kits (and even ARFs): the standard 6-foot-span model, the 8-foot-span Senior Telemaster, and the 4-foot-span Junior Telemaster, making it one of the oldest, continually produced airplane designs available today.

 A classic part of the Hobby Lobby lineup of kits for decades, the Telemaster was retained when Mark Cleveland purchased Hobby Lobby and changed its name to Hobby Express. Mark has been working with Treeline Development to expand the Telemaster heritage and introduce it to a younger generation of makers by forming an approved STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) development course. The curriculum is planned to be compatible as a stand-alone class, a work-study job, or an after-school program in which high-school students will learn the basics of quality control and safety while meeting the demands of manufacturing a full-production product. It goes without saying that the program will also encourage student engagement in ideation and entrepreneurial thinking and RC model aviation!

 I think the Telemaster is an ideal trainer. With or without ailerons it responds positively to the controls and goes where you point it even in moderate winds. The controls are effective down to the stall point, which is gentle and occurs at a very low speed. It is moderate in size for economy and ease of transportation, yet has plenty of room for radio equipment. Also, it is strong without being heavy or difficult to build. This version is called a “Junior Telemaster”, and can be powered by nitro engine or electric motor. Mine is powered by an old O.S. .26 4-stroke engine, and is a joy to fly.

 My Jr. Telemaster was built from a great set of plans and Flying Models article, which are available from: Outerzone Telemaster Webpage; and/or Aerofred Telemaster Webpage.

New Big Tables

 Along with picnic tables and standard starting tables, I built a number of these flat top tables for R.G. Satow RC Flying Field. I created a PDF file with instructions and a complete bill of materials if you would like to build one for your own use at home. Click the link to download or view the instructions.

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My Cloud Dancer Build Description.

Cloud Dancer “2026 TAI Swap Meet Raffle Prize” Flyer.

See All Images Taken During my Cloud Dancer Scratch Build.

Cloud Dancer

 The free Cloud Dancer plan and article were downloaded from "Outerzone.co.uk", but plans can also be found on "Aerofred.com", which has several versions of the Cloud Dance ranging from 40" to 86" wingspans. There also is a laser short kit for the larger Cloud Dancer 120 available for purchase on "The Balsa Workbench."

 The Cloud Dancer I built was designed by Fred Reese, and the article is from a June 1993 edition of Radio Control Modeler (RCM). This .60 size version has a wingspan of 73" with a total wing area of 850 sq. inches, which will result in a light wing loading of approx. 17 oz. per sq. in. The overall fuselage length is 57", and is designed for a .40 - .60 two stroke. I installed a Thunder Tiger .61 2-stroke my father used many years ago.

 First step in this build was to print out a copy of the full size plan on my Canon printer using the "poster" settings, and then put all the pages together for an overall 77" x 51" plan.

 Given the plan only has the right wing and right horizontal stab drawn, I inverted the plan file vertically to get a left wing and stab, and that copy of the plan was cut up to get the patterns for all the ribs, formers, fuselage sides, etc.

 You can also get the plan printed out at Fed Ex for around $25 a copy.

 My Cloud Dancer was built from a great set of plans and article, which are available from: Outerzone Cloud Dancer Webpage; and/or Aerofred Cloud Dancer Webpage.

 The two images here show my finished Cloud Dancer. Double check all the control throws and throttle throw for correct directions, and verify the CG is per the plans. She flies great so have fun. NOTE —I have found that if pushed hard at high speeds I get some aileron flutter. This is due to the single center wing aileron servo, so I need to do some modifications and put in dual aileron servos to resolve the flutter. I always have something to work in this hobby.

Bokkie

This low wing .20-.30 powered sport flier builds quick, flies great, and won't break the bank.

Here is a link to download the Full Size Plans and the February 1971 RCM Article, both from AeroFred Bokkie Webpage.

150% SIG Wonder

 My original SIG Wonder was getting too small for my aging eyes, so I built a 150% version. Powered by an O.S. .45 FX she flies great, and is still just as fast and responsive as the little Wonder.

SIG Wonder Building Manual.

Original Wonder Full Size Plans from SIG.

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 My Big Bird II was built from a great set of plans and article, which are available from: Outerzone Big Bird II Webpage; and/or Aerofred Cloud Dancer Webpage.

My Big Bird II Build Description.

Big Bird II

 This build is very similar to the Dynaflight Butterfly plane. The construction is very straightforward. A basic LONG box fuselage, stick built tail surfaces, and a BIG flat bottom wing. This would be a great plane for the first-time scratch builder to build and fly. I modified the plans to use "bolt-on" wings, added ailerons to each of the outer wing panels and flaps to each of the inner wing panels, increased the rudder and elevator by approximately 30%, extended each of the inner wing panels to 23", which yields an overall wingspan of 94", and removed the dihedral at the wing center section joint. There are some other modifications which I call out in my build description that I've provided to the right. I initially used an O.S. .26 Surpass 4-cycle for power, but later changed to an O.S. .25 FX 2-cycle so I could use the 4-cycle on another model. I elected to use five channels in my scratch build but that is not to say fewer could be used if you did not want the ailerons and/or flaps, or more can be used if you want to drive each flap and aileron surface servo using a separate channel on the receiver. It is your call on this one.

Double Trouble 40

 She has a wing span of 36.5", overall length of 38", and is powered by an O.S. 46LA.  A very simple build, and she turned out to be an interesting aerobatic biplane.

Link to download the Full Size Plans and the February 1978 RCM Article, both from Outerzone Double Trouble Webpage.

Parts list by Larry Nieman.

Magnetic Build Board & 1935 Aeronca C-3

The Results: A scratch built 1935 Aeronca C-3. Six foot wingspan and powered by an O.S. .35 2-cycle.

Here are the links to download the Full Size Plans and the January 1974 RCM Article, both from AeroFred Aeronca C-3 Webpage.

"Airfield Models"

Lots of good info here, and is where I got the info I needed to make my magnetic building board and all the various fixtures.

"Retro RC LLC"

Another good source of magnetic build board information and many different types of fixtures that you can purchase.

Ed Kazmirskis' Simla

 The Simla was RC pioneer and legend Ed Kazmirskis' boldest and most ambitious design. In 1965 the Simla was a giant leap into the unknown world of large-scale RC Aerobatics (Pattern) airplanes, decades before big models would be commonplace. The Simla was an experimental, one-of-a-kind effort employing out-of-the-box thinking at a time when aircraft design was as much intuition as scientific. It featured adjustable high-, mid-, and low-wing positions; adjustable dihedral and stabilizer incidence; and, best of all, an early form of plug-in wings in an era when dowels and rubber bands were holding all other models wings on. Plans for the Simla can be ordered from the Model Aviation Magazine Plans Service. You can find a link to their site on my  "RC_Links" page by simply clicking on the “AMA Plans Service” link.

The Model Aviation Article that got me interested in scratch building the Simla.

My Simla Build Description.

My Simla Material List.

Simla “For Sale” Flyer.

See All Images Taken During my Simla Scratch Build.

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1911 Voisin Canard
A Truly Different Aircraft

 The Voisin Canard was an aircraft developed by the Voisin brothers during 1910 and first flown early in 1911. It was named the Canard because of the resemblance of its forward fuselage to that of a duck's long neck while in flight. It was originally flown as a land plane: with the addition of floats it became one of the first seaplanes used by the French Navy.

 My Voisin Canard was built from a great set of plans and article, which are available from: Outerzone Voisin Canard Webpage; and/or Aerofred Voisin Canard Webpage.

My Voisin Canard Build Description.

See All Images Taken During my Voisin Canard Scratch Build.

A short video of my Voisin Canard actually flying.

Big Double Trouble
and X-20

 When I first saw the Virgin Galactic White Knight Two and Spaceship Two back in 2008, I thought it would be interesting to see if these two aircraft could be built as RC models. As with the two Virgin Galactic aircraft, the mothership model would carry a smaller aircraft model to altitude and then released to allow another member of our flying club to control its flight using a separate transmitter. I searched the web for any existing plans but came up with zero. So, I decided that I would come up with something myself.

 My White Knight Two model would be similar by having two fuselages, a very large wingspan, and a center wing section that would carry the smaller captive carry RC model. Because of its very gentle handling characteristics, known flying qualities, and rather simple design, I decided to use the plans from my Dynaflight Butterfly kit as a starting point, and then made many additions and modifications from there. The largest difference was this would be a twin fuselage model using two 4-cycle engines for power, and a wingspan of 152 inches overall. Not a small model. Details of this build are contained in my build description which is provided below.

Big Double Trouble Hardware List.

My Double Trouble Build Description.

Boeing Blended Wing Body Concept

 I'm going to try and draw up some plans for an RC model using two electric ducted fans (EDFs) for propulsion. Something around 48" to 60" for a max wingspan. A built-up fuselage using light ply formers and skinned with 1/16" balsa. Wings as I normally build using a "boxed D" design. I plan to use 5/8 inch carbon fiber tubes to mate the wings to the fuselage. Right now the overall span is 54", but a large part of that is the wide fuselage, which also acts as another large wing like lifting surface. Overall wing loading I hope will end up being less than 20 oz. per square foot. The twin EDF fans will be inside the fuselage, with access panels on the bottom of the fuselage. Tricycle gear, but not going with retracts on this first try. To help with handling and to try and not have a crash-and-burn on first flight, I want to use a Spektrum receiver with the "Safe" technology built in. I don't see this new BWB design flying much different than my 150 Wonder since both are about the same size, weight, and power.

 5/3/2023 Based on my review of available EDFs, I will be using twin Freewing 64mm 12 Blade Ducted Fans powered by 2840-2850KV motors, and a single 4S 5200mah LiPo in my design of the Boeing BWB military transport. These two EDFs will give me a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio (assuming 5.5 lbs total weight) at full thrust.
After having drawn up several different views using paper and pencil, I decided to try my hand at 2D Computer Aided Design. As of today, I have all fuselage profiles established; detailed layouts for both wings; a top, bottom, and side view of the fuselage; rib profiles; all now in digital 2D drawings. You can see these via the links to the left below.

 Using the center fuselage front and aft profile views, I printed out templates for all the fuselage formers and fuselage ribs. I then took the templates and generated actual full size formers/ribs cut from 1/8 inch form core board.

 With the announcement on 13 October 2023 from the USAF that JetZero, an aerospace company based in the US, will build the world's first blended wing body (BWB) demonstrator aircraft (bottom image to the left) for the USAF, my design efforts to model the Boeing BWB have been placed on hold. Should I decide to try and model the JetZero BWB concept, updates will be posted on this webpage. More to come, maybe.

 I will try and keep you up to date on my progress. For those of you that want to follow me through the process, I will post the date here for when the files below have changed.

(as of 5/3/2023)

My Design and Build Document

Front Profile View

Aft Profile View

Fuselage Top View

Fuselage Bottom View

Fuselage Side View

Left Wing Top View

Right Wing Top View

BWB Rib Profiles (1-4)

BWB Test Fit Formers

BWB Scale Model Design and Build

 This build description is going to be somewhat different from others I produced in the past for my other scratch builds. First, this build is based only on a picture I ran across in a copy of Aviation Week and Space Technology (Feb 13-26, 2023) of a new concept from Boeing for a Blended Wing Body (BWB) military transport targeted for the US Air Force. This scalable configuration could be developed as a tactical airlifter Lockheed C-130 replacement, or a Boeing C-17 size strategic transport. The wingspan of the initial Boeing concept is estimated at about 130 feet, using medium or even high-bypass-ratio turbofans buried along the sides of the center fuselage. Second, there are no plans that I can download from the web for this build. Therefore, I will start this build description by working up the requirements of the RC model, and development of the plans to scratch build from. The first thing I needed to do was to see what additional data I could find on this new BWB transport, which I rapidly found was only a few more pictures. There is nothing in the way of any three views, line drawings, or specifications. Boeing currently is not releasing any additional data.

 Using the top view picture I worked up my initial 'scale' representation of the BWB outline. Next, I broke out my old engineering design drawing kit (from my bachelors engineering class back in the mid-70's) and pulled out several scaled rules to find something that would provide me with a scale I could use to end up with a model in the 48-60 inch wingspan range. This wingspan range was set to be able to store the model in my workshop, and to carry it to the flying field in the bed of my Colorado pickup. What resulted was an initial plan that comes in with a 54-inch wingspan and a center fuselage of 13.5 inches wide by 30 inches long. So, this top view of the overall outline was put down on drawing paper as the starting point for my plans. Please read “My Design and Build Document” via the link in the section to the left for more of my design story.

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