How to Build a Rocket

You only need a few simple tools to build a rocket. As with most other construction projects, gathering the necessary equipment is the first order of business.

Required Tools and Materials

Cone
Engine
Knife
Engine mount
Ignition
Plastic cement
Balsa wood
A cylindrical object, can or bottle

Creating the Body

Apply some plastic cement to the cone. Put it at the top of the cylinder. Cut the wood board and shape it like a fin. Make three or four of these. Sand them first. Smoother fins make for smoother flight. If you do not sand them, the flight will be jerky.

To make it easier to build a rocket, draw the basic shape of the fin. Put it on top of the balsa wood. Trace and use this outline as a guide to cut the desired shape. Once smoothed out, apply plastic cement to attach to the cylinder. If you made cardboard fins, wood glue will do.

Putting on the Engine and Painting

Set the engine and engine mount below the fins. Put some adhesive on a swab to make it stick to the cylinder. Make certain that it is fitted well. When it is in place you can start painting it. Be as fancy with the colors as you like. Instead of applying a thick coating, apply light layers on top of one another. This won’t affect the aerodynamics at all.

Testing

Double check everything to ensure all the components are in place. When they are, you can let it fly. Testing is just as integral to the process as any other. When you build a rocket, it’s always a good idea to take it for a test flight before showing it off to your friends.

Tips and Warnings

Always follow the directions for using the engine and engine mount. These can be purchased in stores and finding one won’t be hard.

Plastic cement was used in this case but you can use cardboard instead. You can make the body, nose and fins from cardboard. Design the pieces and use measuring tape to get the proportions right. Cut using a knife. You can apply glue to assemble the pieces. The engine and engine mount can be set on as per instructions in the box.

When making test flights, do it in an open area. Flying it in your room could result in furniture damage. Even if you can build a rocket, there’s no telling how high it can go. Even if you go outside, be sure not to do it near other people’s homes or buildings.

If you don’t want to buy an engine or an engine mount, you can make your own “fuel”. Use a canister for the rocket body. Mix some water with Alka Seltzer and seal it. The canister will fly. Alternatively you can mix soft drinks, soda and mint candy. The rocket won’t just fly but likely explode too. Don’t try this indoors.

There are few things more exciting than getting to build a rocket and seeing it fly sky high. For more fun, make several and let them go off at once.