How do you guys go about the weighting your balsa cranks, specifically flatsides which is what im starting out on. Im twisting my own eyes but havent come up with a good way on the lead part yet short of doing my own molds...thx

Do you mean balancing the lure so it floats upright unassisted? It will really depend on the actual shape of the lure, but a good starting point is the lowest point or as close to that as possible on the body.

As a reference, this location is somewhere  from being directly under where the belly treble is to somewhere forward, closer to its neck or throat.

Your final location of the weight and the amount of weight you use can influence the wobble. If this is your first time, promise yourself to not get frustrated.  There will be a good deal of trial and error, but persistence will pay you dividends in rewards and accomplishment and eventually having catch fish.

Good luck!

You can use split shot, egg sinkers, or bullet sinkers.   Depends on how wide the stock is and if you are doing a thru wire harness.   1/8oz bullet weights fit nice in a 1/4 hole.   

To make the hook hanger in the weight just make a U shape and run the tag ends up thru the weight and bend over the sides.   

You can use split shot, egg sinkers, or bullet sinkers. Depends on how wide the stock is and if you are doing a thru wire harness. 1/8oz bullet weights fit nice in a 1/4 hole.

To make the hook hanger in the weight just make a U shape and run the tag ends up thru the weight and bend over the sides.

Mike,

Do you have or have you ever posted a cutaway photo of one of your baits??  I don't want you to give away your trade secrets but I'd love to see  how you make wire and weights inside. 

Thanks for the replies, making sure i was on the right track, just a little more trial and error to go.

Get one of those little $25 electronic digital scales sold on Ebay and elsewhere.  It's one of the best tools for building good crankbaits.  Weigh the body, lip, hook hangers, and treble hooks you'll use on the bait.  If you through-wire the bait, weigh everything after you do that.  Add .03-.05 oz for finish.  Subtract the total you get from the target weight of your crankbait to get the ballast required.  Write everything down so you can do it again 3-4 months from now after you decide your crankbait is the greatest thing since sliced bread and want to build another just like it!