SMC - Current Project

At the moment I am working on a scratch build of the X-33.  This is my first attempt at a scratch build, so I am working from the "KISS" view point, "Keep It Simple, Stupid".  I didn't worry about little things like scale.  I found a nice little set of multi- view line drawings at a site that is no longer available since the program was shut down.  Here they are for those of you wanting to try a similar project:

X-33 Venture Star Line Drawings
Top	Back Side Front	Bottom
X-33 Venture Star Rendered Drawings
Top	Back Side Front	Bottom

The way I went about making this model was actually very simple.  I printed out the top drawing and cut it down to size.  The cut down image was tacked onto a large piece of balsa wood and I used a scroll saw to cut around it on the line.  After that I just used the old eyeball to trim it to the rough shape shown on the side view with an x-acto knife.  After that I simply took it to the power sander and manually with sand paper when I got close to the final shape.  The wings were done the same way with smaller balsa pieces.

I still have quite a ways to go, especially on the rear end, but here are pictures of what I have finished on it so far:

I do not consider this a fantastic model, but it has been excellent as a learning experience.  I will post more as I progress.

Don