The Pinewood Derby is a very popular event that has been a part of the Cub Scouts of America for years now. It is a tradition that everyone in the family can get really excited about because it is such a fun event. As a cub scout there are a few things that can be done in order to make sure that the event goes off without a hitch and that there are no disappointments when the big day comes.

Dreaming it Up

As soon as the big Pinewood Derby event is announcement by Cub Scout leaders, it is time to let the imagination flow and to put those thinking caps on. This is the perfect opportunity to grab a box car kit and get to thinking up a design. The kit comes with everything you need to make the car go but how the car looks must be something that is dreamed up by the Cub Scout.

Themes are always a good idea and can be incorporated into any Pinewood Derby car design. For example if Batman is the inspiration, black should be the base of the design. If Spiderman is a better option then blues and reds will come in handy. A fun and challenging design should be the goal, but not so much that it is a struggle to complete. It is important to make sure that all Pinewood Derby rules are adhered to when creating the theme and design for the car.

Black Magic Pinewood Derby Car Kit

Black Magic Pinewood Derby Car Kit

Building the Car

When it comes time to build the box car a Cub Scout will want to make sure that the design ideas have been put onto paper so that they are easier to follow. This is because you can actually trace the car design onto the block of wood for it to be cut exactly how the Cub Scout envisioned it. Using graph paper can help with creativity and with precision.

A small saw or other woodworking tool is perfect for cutting the car into shape. Once it has been cut sandpaper should be used to smooth all of the edges in order to create a sleeker look. The next step is to paint the Pinewood Derby car. This can be done with spray paint or regular house paint. Nifty skins can be used as well, all that is necessary is to peel the skin off its paper and then adhere it to the vehicle.

Once the car has been painted it is time to attach the axle and the wheels, finally finishing up with any decals and stickers the Cub Scout might want to put on the car. That’s about all there is to getting ready for a big Pinewood Derby event! The rest takes care of itself once everyone gets there.


No Comments

No comments yet.

Comments RSS TrackBack Identifier URI

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.