How to make a Carbon Fibre MTA

Here is a real first.

One of my original ideas for a website, was to have a step by step guide to making your own carbon fibre boomerangs, preferably an MTA.

There is no website anywhere that contains the precise step by step instructions to do this. I have found, and still find, that information on construction techniques seems almost secretive. Imagine a boomerang world in which only a handful of people could make wooden/paxolin boomerangs. Not good I think...

I wanted to change all this, and have been itching to start my own carbon fibre construction.

So here it is! - the detailed step by step instructions - for the beginner, with over 70 clear photos.

I have shown these techniques, hoping that new people may start to experiment and pave the way for new fantastic flying MTA's.

I am very grateful to Martin Laslett, from Birmingham UK, for teaching and showing these methods, as it was his many previous failures that lead to the following steps.He is a true master of experimentation, and is unselfish in the sharing of what he has found. Thanks Mart.

Martin said, ' So...we are the Penn and Teller of carbon MTA's', which I thought was quite apt.....!

Also thanks to Pierre Kutek, for his advice and very helpful Emails. Pierres carbon fibre boomerangs are fabulous.

Thanks also to the patience and advice from the friendly staff at www.polyfibre.co.uk ...

Before you read on, please note the following.

1. Working with carbon fibre, and the resins can be naaasty. This stuff is to be respected. Wear Gloves and Mask, and goggles.

2. Work in a well ventilated area.

3. Be organised, work tidily and safely

4. Keep children away from the work area.

5. There is a very real possibility of catastrophic damage to your MTA you are attempting to mold. Mistakes WILL happen, expect this.

6. The methods we are about to show, are what we have found after 2 years of trial and error. There are almost certainly better methods out there. If you know of any improvements please EMail me! You will find, there are loads of things to find out and try.

7. There are many different types of resin, and they can be used in different ways. There is no definite 'do this, and do that'.There are some very good Websites (see my links), about carbon fibre. Visit these to get an appreciation of what its all about.

8. I bought a good beginners book, available at Amazon. Fiberglass and Composite Materials by Forbes D Aird. I recommend this. Remember there can be major health and safety risks associated with this. Have fun but be mindful.

9. I accept no responsibility for any trouble you get yourself into! We are NOT experts.

10. I welcome any comments and questions.

"He who asks is a fool for five minutes, but he who does not ask remains a fool forever."

-- Proverb