2. Notice that the inner edge of this angle stock is higher than the outer edge. We can use this material feature to help balance our paper airplane while we find its Center of Gravity.
3. Cut a section of the angle about 6" long.
5. Mark the center of the angle and then add marks about 3/16" on each side of the center.
6. Clamp two of the ruler sections to the outer edge of the angle. Make sure that the top of the ruler sections is lined up with the inner edge of the angle. You can use a block of wood or straight edge to verify the alignment. The ruler sections should also be spaced even with the off center marks made in the previous step.
8. Cut out the material between each ruler section to allow the fuselage of the paper airplane clearance when find the C.G.
9. The finished project. You can now use the paper airplane balancing fixture to quickly find a paper airplane's center of gravity.
1. Place paper airplane on fixture as shown. Move the airplane back and forth until you find the point that the paper airplane just starts to tilt forward.
2. Mark the position of the ruler right at the balance point on the paper airplane's wings.
3. Use a straight edge to mark across the wings.
1. Cut the tube to the desired height. I have shown a way you can get a good cut with a sharp knife and a little practice. Just press very lightly and score around the tube several times until it cuts through.
2. Mark and cut slots for 6" rulers.
3. Place rulers in slots and hot glue.
4. Place paper airplane up side down on fixture as shown (tail and fins may have to be unfolded). Move the airplane back and forth until you find the point that the paper airplane just starts to tilt forward. Mark the balancing line.
5. Round tubing from food or from paper rolls can be used neatly if a few more layers of paper are wrapped around to add a bit more strength and improve the look. Make a mixture of one half white glue and one half water. Paint this mixture on to strips of paper to wrap around tube. Wrap glue coated strips tightly around tube.
6. The outside of the tube can be painted with the glue and water mixture to give a more consistent appearance. Wipe off excess mixture and let dry. This same new tubing can be used for project three A Paper Airplane Display Base.
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