I am not sure where to ask this question so I will try it
here.

I am wondering what technique you folks use to keep your joints
snug and square on stick built type construction like you
would find on a Sig Cub kit or similar kits? I have done alot
of that kind of building but never seem to be satisfied with
the fit and seem to say "good enough" . I have never
had a failure but I am always trying to improve my building
skills.
I usually lay a stick across the area needing to have the piece
cut and mark it with the razor saw or blade and then cut it
and sand to fit. This just seems time consuming and I rarely get
a good fit on the first try.
What do you folks do?



I cut it twice and it's still too short....
:stupid:

Thanks
Sam

I usually cut balsa with a new sharp single edge razor blade. Most of the time I can get the sticks very close to the desired length and cut angle. But I usually cut just slightly longer than necessary and finish it with a swipe or two of a sanding block, trial fitting till it fits perfectly.

It's time consuming but that's just the way it is.

I'd stay out of those joints personally.
All kidding aside. You're doing it exactly the way I've been building for a long time. I use Titebond most of the time on joints like these. I coat the stick, place it into the joint to put some glue on the other wood, recoat the stick and insert in place. Wipe off excess and let dry. I don't like CA in these cases cause it appears to just "sit" on the outside of harder spruce or pine. Titebond works well on all hardnesses of balsa. Thanks for listening. Mike

Thanks guys .. I guess there really is no quick or fast way
to build these structures. I like the way they look and also
the idea that they are a bit lighter than slab construction.
I just want to make sure I am on the right track.
I also have gotten away from CAs for this type of
construction for similar reasons stated. Lately I have been using
the Pica glues and having good results.

Thanks
Sam

I use two products from Fourmost. It's a miter sander and miter cutter, they both are fully adjustable from 0 to 90 degrees. I use the miter saw to cut just slightly longer than what I need, double check the angle, and correct the angle with the sander if I am off, and finish off with the miter sander to make a perfect fit and is always square. I paid approx $18.00 ea. but to me it's well worth it. They have a website ( Fourmost.com ). Hope this helps.

Regards,

Pat

PDF
I have one of the Formost miter sanders but I guess I will have
to invest in one of the miter cutters.

Thanks
Sam