I've been thinking about wooden model ship kits lately. There are a number of interesting kits in the $60 to $200 range, and they look like they'd offer many, many months of building. Specifically, I'm thinking along these kinds of models:

http://www.historicships.com/TALLSHIPS/Midwest/Crabbing%20Skif%20mw970/Crabbing%20Skiff%20mw970.htm

http://www.historicships.com/TALLSHIPS/M...op%20MS2160.htm


Has anyone tried a wooden model ship? What were your experiences with the project?

That armed sloop on the ways at an old fashioned drydock is awful cool.

If you like scrounging for wood etc. Why not google "Free wooden ship model plans" lots of plans out there.
Most of the time the materials in kits leave a lot to be desired so you end up finding replacements anyway.

I've look at some plans. Not sure how accessible the kind of stock I'd need to build a project is, or the pricing. Will have to check.

Yes, I built a couple. My last one was a Marine Model's Pinky, which was gaff rigged, pink-sterned fishing schooner from the 1820 to 1870 period.

I was then going to build their 14 gun Virginia Privateer, but life and graduate school got in the way. I've actually saved that kit in like new condition for almost 50 years for the day when the spirit moves to start on it, but it hasn't and probably won't.

The Marine Model kits had pre-carved, solid hulls that required final shaping, sanding and decking. The intricate rigging was challenging and required good eyesight and a fair amount of dexterity.

I found these kits relaxing to work on and got a lot of satisfaction from displaying them when completed.

I have tried 2 so far. My first one was the Small sail boat. I had so much fun building that. I had no idea what I was doing or what I was getting into, but it consumed so much time and I loved building it. Not crazy with the lines on the sails, but you learn.
The second was much more difficult. The Hoga Tug. All individual planks for the hull. A lot more work. I think it would take me a few kits before I really got it down but I think I did a decent job for my first go.
Good luck. There are so many kits to choose from. You will love it.
The Tug is not complete in these pics.

Great job! And thanks for sharing. I can see what you mean about those lines (seams) of your sails. But as you said it's a learning process. I've gone halfway thru a bluenose schooner and I can attest that planking is a b*tch! I can see why this has typically been the hobby of older and more patient males.

Yes, thanks for the responses! Nice work Bandit4, the sailboat looks pretty good, overall. Certainly a project that appeals to me, and if I eventually try it, I'd like to build a sailboat or sailing ship myself.

adlabs, for replacement wood parts check your model railroad shops. Good ones usually have a large selection of hardwood strips for all your needs.

Wingy

Thanks Wingnuts01, I think I know just the shop to check next time I'm out there. They might also have some basswood blocks, too. Could be useful for maybe carving a small solid hull catboat or something.

I'm currently working on the U.S. Brig Syren form model shipways.
http://www.modelexpo-online.com/product.asp?ITEMNO=MS2260
It comes with a detailed 130 page manual with pictures and everything. I love pictures.
Plus the guy who created the kit, Chuck Passaro is an admin at http://modelshipworld.com/ and will answer any questions you have about the build.

That brig looks awesome.

I wish I had the skill and knowledge to scratch build one of those USCG self righting surf boats they used to have in Oregon or Washington.

An R/C version to run in real surf!

Wow, yea. DeadMeat consider posting some progress updates and thoughts on the build along the way.

BTW, with a kit that detailed, do you have any prior experience, or did you just go a kit you liked?

THAT is going to be a challenge! Nice model though. Big! You do know that you're going to end up buying all sorts of tiny clamps, knives, steamers, etc.. right? I started on a bluenose schooner, almost got halfway through the planking and said

But I ended up with a beautiful wooden box full of inexplicable tools that my kids are going to wonder about when I'm dead.

Looking forward to seeing some progress shot during your build.


Wheels