All,

There will be another build-it on Wednesday, Feb 8 from 6-7pm for those that still need to rough-cut their pinewood derby cars. Please try to arrive close to 6:00 in order to allow time to complete the work. The address is:

330 Dupont Cir
Raleigh, NC 27603

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What gets done where?

– At home prior to arriving at the workshop, open the pinewood car box. Determine what the end car should look like and sketch (first on paper and then directly on the wood block) what the cut lines need to be made. Take note of where the axle slots are and make sure the car has reasonable thickness so as not to break easily during construction or on the track. You must be able to clearly articulate what cuts need to be made and in what order to obtain the final correct output. For those new to the Pinewood derby, simple is better. The person that will cut the wood is an experienced woodworker, but is not familiar with pinewood derby cars. As an example, if you mark the block with the axle slots at the top of the car, that is how the block will be cut. I recommend that you keep the wheels and axles at home rather than bringing them to the workshop.

- At the workshop, bring your pre-marked pine block. It will be cut for you to the lines indicated by a woodworker. You can then smooth the design sand with a drum or disc sander at the shop.

- At home after the shop, to the degree of your scout’s ambition you may fine sand the car, add weights, apply paint or stain as desired and put on the wheels and axles. Weight is a critical attribute to the speed of the car and I recommend adding weights to bring the car reasonably close to the maximum of 5oz. Weights can be purchased at hobby stores in a variety of shapes. Scouts have also used coins, washers, bolts and similar items to add weight to the car.

Please contact me if you have questions.

Brian