Making an Airplane - Part 1

Please Note:  This is how I chose to make the plane.  Maybe you have better or more efficient ways.  My purpose is to provide inspiration to think outside the box and create something of your own. 

As many you know, it is hot in the summer in Texas.  I tried to take pictures at each stage, but the heat got to my brain and I missed some along the way.

I started by routing circles in plywood for the body of the plane.

I was able to make two circles out of each 2'X4' piece that

I had the Pros at Home Depot cut down for easy transport.

We found an old chair for $5 at the McKinney Trades Days that I designed the size of the cockpit around.

I used a reciprocating saw to cut the legs off the chair.

I cut dados in the circles to fit my support braces.

I wanted to make the wings removable so I made notches in the side braces to accommodate.

You can see the notched side braces and the beginnings of the support for the seat.

I used a waterproof glue since it's final landing place was going to be in our backyard.

All the supports were 2X4's that I cut down.

I also wanted to make sure there was plenty of support throughout. 

 

Cut a dashboard to fit in between the upper side supports.

Braces for the dashboard.

I cut 1/2" thick by 2" wide slats to sheath the plane in.

Sheathed the main body being sure to leave the notched area for the wings exposed.

I slightly beveled the sides of the slats to fit more tightly to the circular shape and used screws for to attach the slats.

On the bottom, I had to add wood supports for the wheels to attach to.

The cockpit of the plane completed.

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Making an Airplane - Part 2 coming soon!