Extra 300S paper model
I (Rich Harman, for those of you linking from Patty's site) designed this paper model to help visualize different paint schemes for my "full size" model (Midwest Extra 300S, 80" wingspan). I scanned in the drawings in the back of the Midwest instruction booklet then transferred those into AutoCad. Using AutoCad I worked out the details of making it into a 3d model. The drawing was then transferred into Photostyler where color was added.
For the Patty Wagstaff version I used the "original pattern" as a pattern and completely redrew it using Adobe Illustrator. I then saved it in PDF format. PDF format is far superior than gif or jpg, no more jagged edges! The details were added with the help of photos that Patty sent.
I use 80lb paper to make the models, haven't tried regular paper. All of the parts are on one sheet for a 7" wingspan model.
It was not designed to fly but about a nickle's worth of weight in the nose will yield some decent flights. Decent compared to a lawn dart that is! You have to throw it so fast that it will quickly get damaged in landing.
You could also mount a stick flat against the belly extending several inches past the tail and use the model to work out aerobatic routines.
Download a pattern
Click here for the Patty Wagstaff version in PDF format (771k)
Updated 12/4/98
Assembly Instructions
Click here for the instructions in PDF format
Printing
Unfortunately, you can't print directly from your browser, well maybe you can but it doesn't work for me. Of course this doesn't apply to the PDF version.
Save the image into your favorite directory for that sort of thing. Open up the image in an image editing program such as Photostyler, Paint shop, Photoshop etc... When you go to print it choose landscape mode and shrink to fit while maintaining the aspect ratio.
Materials
White glue Scissors X-acto knife Cutting board Paperclip or wire Needle nose pliers Pen or pencil About 2hrs time
Cut out the parts
Cut out all the pieces using scizzors and a razor knife. Many small straight cuts are easier than trying to cut small curves.
Don't forget to cut the wing slits before assembling. I tried cutting them once after it was together and I couldn't do it accurately enough, the wings weren't level. When cutting the slits it is best to make two cuts so that the slit is wide enough to accept the wing without distorting.
Fuselage
Curve the fuselage turtledeck by drawing it over the edge of a table or something.
Using a pair of smooth jaw needlenose pliers, bend all of the glue tabs down (except for the rudder where they bend up). It is helpful if you can get them to stay at a right angle.
Put a thin line of white glue on the glue tab on either side of the front of the top fuselage deck piece (where the spinner goes). Align carefully and hold in place while the glue dries. It only takes a minute. Continue on back in the same manner.
Glue the bottom of the fuselage in place. Start with the front and use the blue line to keep it aligned or else you'll build a twist into the fuse.
Landing gear
I used a paperclip folded inside the landing gear struts to enable the model to hold its weight. Each end of the paperclip was bent into a tiny circle and arranged so that the paperclip reached from one wheel to the other.
Bend the landing gear to shape before gluing.
Wings and tail
Just fold over and glue with a thin film of glue. Glue the rudder fin to the horizontal stab. The front of the fin should be even with the front of the stab.
Make slits in the tail of the fuselage where indicated. Slide the tail assembly into the slits in the tail. Pull the tail back slightly and apply some glue to either side of the fin.
Move the tail surfaces into place so that the rudder butts up against the tail of the fuse and pinch the fuse ends together until dry.
It isn't neccessary to glue the wing to the fuse.
Canopy and Spinner
Put a drop of glue on each tab of the canopy and a small dab at the tip where it meets the fuse deck and work with it till it looks right.
Use a pencil or pen to help shape the spinner.
You're finished!
If you want to know more about Paper modeling check out
Click here for the original full
size pattern
Click here for Bob Hudson's Lilliberg
pattern
Click here for a blank pattern from Bob
Hudson
