Create Stunning Balsa Model Planes with Inkscape and Cricut Maker!

Create Stunning Balsa Model Planes with Inkscape and Cricut Maker!

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Using Inkscape and Design Space
    1. Choosing the Units
    2. Opening the File in Inkscape
    3. Copying the File
  3. Tracing the Ribs
    1. Using the Bezier Tool
    2. Copying the R4 Rib as a Master
    3. Tracing the R3 Rib and Comparing with R4
    4. Adjusting the Depth and Width
  4. Tracing the R1-R2 Ribs
    1. Comparing with R4 Rib
    2. Adjusting for Offset Spars
  5. Completing the Rib Tracing
    1. Tracing the R2 Rib
    2. Tracing Complicated Shapes
  6. Saving the Drawing
  7. Importing the Drawing into Design Space

Using Inkscape and Design Space for Cutting Model Airplane Short Kits

Model airplane hobbyists often rely on cutting short kits using tools like the Cricut Maker machine. In this tutorial, we will explore how to use Inkscape and Design Space for this purpose. We will cover the necessary steps to Trace and replicate the rib designs using the Bezier tool in Inkscape, along with adjusting Dimensions. By following this tutorial, You will be able to Create accurate cutting designs for your model airplane short kits.

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will focus on utilizing Inkscape, a vector graphics editor, in combination with Design Space from Qriket to cut out short kits for making model airplanes. Specifically, we will be utilizing the cutting capabilities of the Cricut Maker machine. This tutorial aims to provide a step-by-step guide for beginners, showcasing the author's personal process in achieving the desired results. Please note that the audio and video quality might not be as polished as professional programs, but the instructions presented are simple enough to follow and replicate the process effectively.

Using Inkscape and Design Space

Before we begin the process, it is essential to ensure that We Are using the appropriate units for our measurements. In this tutorial, the author prefers working with inches, as it facilitates easy mental calculations. Therefore, the units in Inkscape are set to inches. Once we have Inkscape open, we will need to open the file we wish to work with. For this demonstration, the author has downloaded a PDF file of an old plan from Viron, specifically the Aranka Champ, which will be used as a reference for tracing the rib designs.

To begin the tracing process, we will utilize the Bezier tool in Inkscape. This tool allows us to create precise points and curves, thereby replicating the intricate shapes of the ribs. Starting with the R4 rib, we will select a reference rib as our master and use it to establish the desired shape and dimensions for all the subsequent ribs. Care must be taken to ensure that the reference rib closely matches the original design, as HAND-drawn plans from the past might Show slight variations between individual ribs.

Tracing the Ribs

The first step in tracing the ribs is to duplicate the reference rib using the Ctrl+D key combination. We will then move the duplicate rib to its designated location, maintaining its orientation. The subsequent ribs, such as R3 and R2, will be copied from the reference rib and adjusted accordingly. It is vital to ensure that each rib aligns precisely with the reference rib to maintain consistency and accuracy across the design. This process involves measuring and adjusting the depth and width of the ribs to match the specified dimensions on the plan. By using a combination of the Bezier tool and the Edit Path tool in Inkscape, the author demonstrates how to achieve the desired measurements.

Completing the Rib Tracing

Once we have successfully traced and adjusted the key ribs, we can proceed to trace the remaining ribs using similar techniques. The author showcases the process for more complicated rib shapes, demonstrating the flexibility and versatility of the Bezier tool. It is worth noting that although the drawn shapes might appear slightly imperfect on the screen, the final dimensions will be accurate when the drawing is resized for cutting using the Cricut Maker machine.

Saving the Drawing

Throughout the tracing process, it is advisable to save the drawing frequently to avoid losing any progress. By continually saving the work, users can ensure that they can easily revert to previous versions or make adjustments without losing any crucial steps. Saving the drawing regularly serves as a simple yet effective precautionary measure during the design process.

Importing the Drawing into Design Space

Once the tracing process is complete, the drawing can be saved as an SVG file. This file format is compatible with Design Space, a software application used to prepare designs for cutting using the Cricut Maker machine. By importing the saved SVG file into Design Space, users can easily manipulate the design, adjust measurements, and prepare it for cutting. The author concludes the tutorial at this stage, as further guidance on using Design Space is beyond the scope of this tutorial.

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