In this episode of MasterClass Season 2, Josh and Brian from DU-BRO kick off the next major chapter of the Minuette build: the fuselage. With the wings and tail surfaces now complete, the team moves into one of the most satisfying—and technique-dependent—parts of any balsa airplane project. As winter settles across the U.S. and hobbyists enter “build season,” this episode delivers a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough for beginners and veteran builders alike.
Starting the Fuselage Sides: Step-by-Step Foundations
At the 5-minute mark, Josh begins assembling the second fuselage side, having already built the first off-camera. The techniques applied here—measuring, pinning, beveling, and aligning—set the tone for the rest of the build. Using 3/16-inch square basswood, Josh explains how to ensure joints stay straight, properly angled, and ready for later assembly.
To keep pieces locked down firmly on the plans, Josh uses T-pins, demonstrating the importance of using different sizes for different tasks. For builders looking for durable, high-quality pins, DU-BRO T-Pins are a workshop staple:
Tools Every Builder Needs on the Bench
Josh outlines a classic lineup of essential tools: wax paper, metal rulers, squares, razor saws, hobby knives, and sanding blocks. These are the foundation of balsa modeling—but having the right versions makes all the difference.
A key recommendation in this episode is a proper sanding tool. The DU-BRO Long Sanding Bars (originally from Great Planes tooling) offer a rigid, perfectly straight surface for truing edges and framing:
Other essentials highlighted include the Kwik-Sand hand sander, razor blades for trimming, and the importance of saving every scrap piece of wood for later supports.
Adding Structure: Supports, Longeron Work & Aft Framing
As the build progresses through Steps 74–78, viewers watch Josh measure, cut, and fit a series of vertical fuselage supports. Basswood—lighter and easier to work than spruce—is the star material of the episode. The lower and upper fuselage edges are installed as full-length pieces, with the aft end receiving doubled framing for extra strength.
When pinning and gluing these parts, Josh uses methods that keep wood flat and stress-free. Any excess CA is removed with sanding later, especially important since the Minuette will eventually be stained, not covered.
Glue Choices: CA, Epoxy & Aliphatic Explained
Around the 43-minute mark, a viewer asks which glue is “best” for balsa. Josh breaks down the strengths of each:
-
Medium CA – Ideal for general joining
-
Thin CA – Perfect for wicking into tight balsa joints
-
Aliphatic resin (e.g., Titebond) – Longer working time and excellent for large wood assemblies
-
Epoxy – Best for firewalls, landing gear blocks, and high-stress areas
For hinge installation in future steps, Josh recommends DU-BRO CA Hinges, known for strength and clean fitment in small balsa models:
Final Step of the Episode: Installing FS1 Light Ply Parts
The episode wraps with Step 80, where Josh installs the FS1 laser-cut ply components. He explains how to counter slight wood warps by placing the concave side inward and applying small weights during curing. Thick or medium CA secures the pieces quickly while maintaining alignment.
For cutting curved ply and canopy pieces, he also recommends DU-BRO Canopy Scissors for clean, crack-free cuts:
A Strong Start to the Minuette Fuselage
With expert instruction, smart glue choices, and reliable DU-BRO tools, this MasterClass episode gives builders everything they need to begin framing the Minuette fuselage with confidence. As build season continues, the aircraft’s structure is officially taking shape—and the best techniques are now in your hands.
