![The best builders learn to combine both mindsets. They build like engineers but think like future mechanics. [Credit: Bill Wilson]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_0037.jpg?w=534&h=462&crop=1 "Building vs. Fixing")
![[Credit: Wikimedia Commons]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/F-117_Nighthawk_Front.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Odd and Unusual Aircraft")
![After nearly 75 years, the basic Tailwind design remains sound. [Credit: LeRoy Cook]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/IMG_4636.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "The Wittman Tailwind")
![Trimming composites gets the full PPE job. [Credit: Eric Stewart]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/7-2.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "A Few of My Favorite Tools")
![[Credit: AdobeStock]](https://www.kitplanes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AdobeStock_125628775.jpg?w=265&h=198&crop=1 "Roll Recovery, Part 2")
Cover Story: Seat Cover Conventions
Now that the foam is cut and glued, we’ll learn how to make the pattern, choose and cut the fabric, and sew the cover.
Constant-Speed Props
Sometimes using a constant-speed prop makes sense, but the decision is often a compromise among weight, cost and performance. By Marc Cook.
The Garage Mahal
If the RV-7 turns out half as well as the workshop in which it is being built, itll be a winner. By Matt Johnson.
To Launch a Light Sport
After a disappointing postponement of the first flight, the Jabiru J250 takes to the skies for real. By Bob Fritz.
Hatz Classic: A Homebuilt Waco
First-time builder Ron Sieck’s Hatz Classic biplane comes charmingly close to perfection.
Flight Review: Seven into Ten
The four-seat Van’s RV-10 has been an enduring presence in the homebuilt universe, but its best years may still lie ahead. By Marc Cook.
Light Stuff
The flight-test program for Experimental Light Sport Aircraft (ELSAs) is much different from the one Experimental/Amateur-Built kit builders would employ, but they both require a plan. By Dave Martin.
Letters
Constructive Criticism (Best Letter) I always enjoy your publication. It contains a lot of good articles. Now that the atta boys have been...
What’s New
MGL extends its warranty, Grand Rapids introduces the Sport SX EFIS, Vertical Power has a new system, and more. Edited by Mary Bernard.
In Case You Missed It
Building the RV-3 Aileron Trim
Shocked by the price of servos, Paul Dye decided to fabricate an aileron trim for his RV using compact linear actuators intended for use in radio-controlled models and robotics.
Around the Patch
Editor-in-Chief Marc Cook comments on Zenith Aircrafts turbulent year following several in-flight breakups of CH 601XL Zodiac aircraft, and the company's response with an extensive update kit.
Higher, Faster, Stronger
Glasair’s decision to turbocharge its Sportsman model opened up the door to additional design considerations and refinements. But getting to the desired performance has proved challenging. By Marc Cook.