Teardrop profile pattern

[ssrjim]

So far I have a couple 1/2 ply patterns floating around the garage. I like most like to cut the sides close with a sabersaw and then use a trim router to cut the perfect cut.

Here I am layout trailer 3 in the auxiliary shop.

[Larry C]

If the image opens full size, (I am still trying to get this picture thing right) it will show the batten method.
I drew the x y points on a 4x8 sheet of 1/8 Masonite using a tape measure and a drywall square. A small finish nail was driven into the Masonite and the OSB table top below, at each point. A 1/2" wide x 1/16" wood batten was clamped to each finish nail with miny clamps and small binder clips. Looking straight down on the batten, your eye can detect the tiniest out of fair curve. bend a nail to correct or move the nail if necesary. The batten is clamped to the nails about every 3", so it's quite rigid. Draw a pencil line along the batten, It's now a perfect fair curve profile to use as a pattern.
Cut close to the line with a jig saw and finish with a block plane and sanding block. This method worked well for me. It's a simple process that takes little time to get perfect results.

What am I doing wrong with images?

Larry C

[Gage]

Here's a better picture of what your talking about.

[aggie79]

If the image opens full size, (I am still trying to get this picture thing right) it will show the batten method.
I drew the x y points on a 4x8 sheet of 1/8 Masonite using a tape measure and a drywall square. A small finish nail was driven into the Masonite and the OSB table top below, at each point. A 1/2" wide x 1/16" wood batten was clamped to each finish nail with miny clamps and small binder clips. Looking straight down on the batten, your eye can detect the tiniest out of fair curve. bend a nail to correct or move the nail if necesary. The batten is clamped to the nails about every 3", so it's quite rigid. Draw a pencil line along the batten, It's now a perfect fair curve profile to use as a pattern.
Cut close to the line with a jig saw and finish with a block plane and sanding block. This method worked well for me. It's a simple process that takes little time to get perfect results.
Larry C

I used the same method. Instead of driving nails, I adhered wood blocks with double sided tape.



Tom

[bve]

On making the pattern of my teardrop would it be better to draw it on cardboard or a cheap piece of 4x8 wood???<Or should I just draw it on the original plywood?

Given the diversity of responses(and profiles) I think you need to consider the profile you have chosen or will choose. For the Generic Benroy I see no added value in the batten approach with 3 relatively simple radius' - it over complicates the task. On say the Grumman, 2+2 or Widget (and others) where the curves are long and continuously blend into each other then the batten makes more sense and seems to be ideal for the task.

[mwallace61]

Or get a roll of rosin paper at your local big box and draw out the profile on it, cut it out and trace it on the plywood then cut....