With the increasing popularity of RC "foamies" and park flyers, one problem I see is how to protect them from wind gusts between flights. Too often I see pilots scampering to catch a light airplane that is blowing off the table.
Here is a simple to make, inexpensive and very effective solution that will keep your airplane from moving even in strong wind gusts.
Think of a saddle bag filled with sand at both ends. It requires a sewing machine, heavy duty vinyl fabric (about 2 oz/sq.ft.), play sand and some reclosable sandwich bags.
The vinyl fabric comes in 54" wide bolts. If you purchase 1 yard, you will be able to make six of these.
I found the vinyl at my local craft store, and the sand was from the home center store. I used heavy-duty polyester machine thread and needles designed for sewing denim, also purchased at the craft store.
Start by cutting a 12" piece off the 54" material, then cut that in half to get two pieces 27" x 12" each.
Fold in half, then sew it closed along the long open side. There is no need to finish the edge since the vinyl will not fray. Then make a perpendicular seam about 7.5" from each end.
Fill a plastic zipper bag with 2-1/2 cups of sand and seal it removing as much air as possible. This will weigh about 20 ounces. Stuff a sand-filled bag in each end section, flatten, sew it closed and it's complete.
The author's 24 oz 60" Piper Cub sitting still on a windy day.
I personalized mine with our club name using a stencil cut from manila file folder paper and spray adhesive. It keeps them from walking away:)
It's easy to make multiple units assembly-line style. I made eight in just a few hours.
This light foamie Stearman is safely protected from wind gusts
Gliders are especially prone
Two of the authors' airplanes in the pits.
The wind sock indicates 15mph yet these light models aren't moving at all.
Sand in a sandwich bag sewn into each end
The plan pattern.
Please check out more of my Radio Control Airplanes