The vertical stabilizer was the first part of the empennage to be completed. Because of it's size and relative lack of complexity, it was a good introduction to using the different profiles of stock and the gluing of larger gussets. The stock for the leading & trailing edges and main beam was planed to size, with dados cut on the table saw and rounding done with a router. 

Similar to the wing rib jig, a jig was constructed in conjunction with the construction of the vert stab. The dimensions were drawn out on the MDF board, with blocks stapled around the outside perimeter. As pieces were cut, blocks were stapled on the inside to hold them snugly in place, but still allow them to be removed with relative ease. The gussets were dry fit before gluing and the lower main beam piece was cut to allow gussets to extend to the bottom, as per the original plans. 

The beams were first edge glued together, then the gussets were glued and stapled on while in the jig. The assembly was then removed from the jig, while the other side was completed. The vert stab was weighed on a flat surface to cure.