Pinewood Derby » Car Workshop

It’s time to turn those blocks of pine into track-dominating speed machines. Whether your Scout is imagining a sleek wedge, a futuristic racer, or a custom creation all their own, the Pack 851 Pinewood Derby Car Carving Workshop is where the magic happens.

Building a winning car takes more than just a good design; it takes the right tools, a bit of elbow grease, and some insider tricks. That’s why we’re bringing together seasoned derby veterans, adult leaders, and all the tools you need to transform a block of wood into a race-ready champion.

What to Expect at the Workshop

• Power Tool Stations: Leave the messy sawing to us! Leaders will be on hand to safely assist with power saws, sanders, and drills to rough out your car’s body shape and clear wheel wells.
• Sanding & Shaping Tables: Grab some sandpaper, fine-tune those curves, and smooth out every edge until your car is primed for paint.
• Official Scale & Alignment Checks: Avoid race-day surprises. Use our official scales to hit that sweet 5-ounce maximum, and get tips on axle placement to ensure your car rolls straight and fast.
• Expert Guidance: Unsure where to place your weights? Wondering how to prep your axles? Our experienced derby racers will be walking the floor to share proven tips on friction reduction and weight distribution.

What to Bring

• A rough sketch or idea of your car design
• Your official BSA Pinewood Derby car kit (available from your den leader or the scoutshop online).
• Weights for your car (anything from official lead weights to washers and pennies will do!)
• Safety glasses
• A parent or guardian (this is a hands-on adult + Scout bonding event!)

Safety is our top priority, so please remember that closed-toe shoes are required, and long hair should be tied back near the power tool stations.

Come ready to saw, sand, and scale your way to victory. Let’s make this year’s Pinewood Derby the fastest one yet!