Balsa and glass selection

The next step is glass the inside surface of the balsa shell. I used 2.3 oz glass and West epoxy slightly thinned. Use epoxy judiciously. Allow epoxy to cure to the point that it is no longer tacky, but still soft. Then lay on the form and wrap with ace bandages. Allow to fully cure. Plastic film over the form is good insurance against sticking.

This shell is going to be on the beefy side as jets see high G loads and occasional rough landings (flameouts etc.). Also, structural rigidity is important to reduce the likelihood of flutter. However, you can tailor balsa and glass selection to your needs. I've done lightweight shells using 6# 3/32" balsa with lighter glass (.75 oz or 1.5 oz).