1903 Wright Flyer
 

No this not an RC model but didn't know where else to post my question. I am getting ready to start construction on this museum quality model by Micro Airways and am interested in suggestions as to what type of glue to use to join the wood parts. I considered CA but it stains the wood around the joint which ruins the overall appearance of the model. I intend to use a stain on the wood to give the finished model a pleasing appearance and feel the CA stain would be undesirable. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

RE: 1903 Wright Flyer
 

There are a lot of options. One good one is regular old wood glue (aliphatic resin) such as Titebond. It doesn't stink and cleans up with water. I like the original stuff better than the newer waterproof versions. You could even use something like Elmers white glue. Then there are old school adhesives like Ambroid and Sigment which you can still get. Not sure how they do with stain though. Heck you can even still get hide glue from some woodworking places.

RE: 1903 Wright Flyer
 

souns like a cool project. most wood glues will not take stain. just be carefull and dont get the glue on any exposed surface. seapege will even be noticed after staining

RE: 1903 Wright Flyer
 

you might concider staining your wood before glueing, has worked for me. be sure to use a water base or laquer base stain DONT USE OIL BASE

RE: 1903 Wright Flyer
 

I haven't built one like that myself, but I heard someone else say they stained the wood first - before assembly - that way they didn't have to worry about the glue as much.

RE: 1903 Wright Flyer
 

Dooh, two minutes too late on that reply!

RE: 1903 Wright Flyer
 

Proctor Models makes a lacquer based stain that will take glue very well, I stained the parts on my Jenny that I'm building first as the stain will not work over glued joints. You can order it directly from them, works great.

RE: 1903 Wright Flyer
 

Thanks for the info. Is it necessary to sand the wood after applying the stain? Also. Does CA stain the wood or do you use resin glue like Elmer's? I plan on contacting Procter Monday.

RE: 1903 Wright Flyer
 

I don't know what CA would do to stained would, but I do know that it is more difficult to have a clean look with CA, especially in your case since the model is intended to be displayed. A little run off and it will be very difficult to sand off the excess. Go with wood glue, you will have a lot more working time and it is very easy to clean off excess glue for a very clean look. Besides, your body will thank you for it: CA fumes are really really bad for you. I build my RC planes with wood glue with excellent results.

RE: 1903 Wright Flyer
 

Titebond now has a stainable glue.Something to look at.