Rook Posted September 19, 2013 Share #1 Posted September 19, 2013 Is it a bad idea to use for the bow filler blocks at the bow/stern on my first build, the Swift? It's an old kit & the triangles they provide seem a little small. I glued in the balsa for the bow but am wondering if I could have problems with the planking coming loose at those areas due to the balsa being so weak. Thanks, Jason Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
marktiedens Posted September 19, 2013 Share #2 Posted September 19, 2013 That is actually an excellent place to use balsa.It makes it easier to plank to me.I have never had any planks come loose as long as the ends are securely glued avsjerome2003 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rook Posted September 19, 2013 Author Share #3 Posted September 19, 2013 Excellent. I'll get to sanding then, thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
reklein Posted September 19, 2013 Share #4 Posted September 19, 2013 A way to make the glue hold better is, after carving and sanding, puncture many holes in the balsa surface to allow the glue to grip better. Picture many tiny fingers holding on to the Balsa. BILL augie 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nirvana Posted October 11, 2013 Share #5 Posted October 11, 2013 How about a block of basswood? Okay, it's higher density therefore harder to form but the planking will certainly "nail" to it, both with glue and nails. Just my two cents Jack12477 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dziadeczek Posted October 11, 2013 Share #6 Posted October 11, 2013 How about a block of basswood? Okay, it's higher density therefore harder to form but the planking will certainly "nail" to it, both with glue and nails. Just my two cents That's exactly what I would have said. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sahil334 Posted February 24, 2015 Share #7 Posted February 24, 2015 http://www.stanbridges.com.au/files/pdf/BALSA-FACTS.pdf Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tim I. Posted February 24, 2015 Share #8 Posted February 24, 2015 I use balsa a lot for this purpose. Although when fitting structural timbers in for the bow, it takes a little extra care to not fracture the balsa. I like it because it is easily sanded and hand carved if additional adjustments need to be made after being put into place. - Tim Canute 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
hornet Posted February 24, 2015 Share #9 Posted February 24, 2015 (edited) I have used balsa as bow and stern fillers for my current build HMS Supply. I found that after fitting the blocks painting on several coats of a PVA wood glue/water mix (allowing it to dry between coats) made the balsa firmer and better to plank on to as the mix seemed to soak into the balsa. I have used basswood a number of times before for the same purpose. I think the balsa is almost as good as long as it is treated in this way and it is easier to shape. Edited February 24, 2015 by hornet Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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