HMS Victory - Mantua 1:78 Build log

[Phillipsart]

Nicely done

Thanks GrantTyler

 

[Phillipsart]

HMS Victory – Sail Mounting Progress Update

After taking a well-earned week’s rest, I’m back at the workbench — and what a sight she’s becoming! The HMS Victory is really coming to life now with her sails tied and catching that “imaginary wind.” I’ve only got six more sails left to mount, but already she looks absolutely magnificent.

It’s incredible how much character and movement the sails add — the whole ship now feels like she’s under full canvas, ready to engage at Trafalgar. Each sail has been carefully shaped and tensioned with the rigging to give it a natural billow, as though filled by the sea breeze. Every line and pulley has a job to do, and there’s something deeply satisfying about seeing it all come together after months of intricate rigging.

I did run out of rigging blocks (again!), so another order went in — there’s just no shortcut when you want accuracy and authenticity. The additional blocks will allow me to finish off the remaining sails and some of the finer control lines around the yards.

The copper-plated hull still shines beautifully beneath the rigging, a reminder of how far this build has come — from bare timber frames to a fully-rigged warship of history’s greatest era. Standing here looking at her, it’s hard not to imagine the decks alive with sailors, the creak of timbers, and the wind filling those creamy canvas sails.

Every stage of this build teaches me something new about the craftsmanship and genius behind these great ships. I can’t wait to see her fully rigged — and once the last sail is tied, she’ll be one step closer to her grand display case.

Six sails to go… and the Victory will truly live up to her name.


Stay tuned — the final reveal isn’t far away!

 

[Phillipsart]

New Additions to the Model Yard Workshop

Over the past few days, I’ve been giving my workshop a serious upgrade — adding a few precision tools that will make a big difference in my wooden model shipbuilding. Building these historic ships is all about precision and craftsmanship, and the right tools can transform what’s possible at this scale.

Proxxon MF70 Micro Mill

A brilliant little machine for milling, drilling, and shaping tiny brass or wooden components with absolute accuracy. I’ve already used it to shape dowels for masts and small fittings — smooth, clean, and perfectly aligned. It’s a real gem for fine detail work on ships like Victory and Sovereign of the Seas.

Proxxon PD250 Lathe

Now this one’s a game-changer. I can finally turn my own masts, yards, and cannons precisely to scale. The photo shows my first test piece — The control and finish this lathe provides are superb, and it’s a perfect size for model making.

Pegas Precision Scroll Saw Upgrade

I fitted my Sherwood scroll saw with Swiss-made Pegas clamps. These things are magic — they hold the blades firmly, make changes fast, and keep everything running true. They’ll be perfect for those complex deck and hull details where accuracy and blade tension really matter.

Each of these tools brings me one step closer to creating truly museum-quality results. I can now fabricate custom parts, reproduce authentic shapes, and refine even the tiniest components with ease.

And in the final shot — that’s me holding my Mantua HMS Victory 1:78, my proudest build so far. Seeing her completed reminds me how every small improvement, every tool, and every new technique adds up to something truly special.

Next on the list: custom brass fittings and fine-turned belaying pins — all made right here in The Model Yard with Phil.



Stay tuned — the fleet is only just getting started!

 

[Phillipsart]

Another Big Milestone on the HMS Victory!

Another two sails tied today — and with that, the entire foremast is now complete!

This one was a serious effort; there’s so much going on up front with all the lines, blocks, and braces converging around the bowsprit and lower yards. Every single rope needed to be positioned just right to keep the sails set as if they’re catching a light wind.

It’s honestly one of the most rewarding parts of the build so far — seeing the Victory take on that powerful, full-sail look that she’s famous for. The contrast between the natural sail cloth, the black-and-yellow hull, and the coppered bottom really makes her come alive.

Looking at her now, it’s hard to believe how far this build has come — from the first keel plank to this moment, with the sails stretched out and the rigging webbed like a real working ship. There’s still more to do, but she’s so close to completion now.

It’s been a long and detailed journey, but I can’t help standing back and thinking, “What a magnificent sight she must have been in full sail on the open sea.”

Next up — finishing the remaining sails on the mizzen masts, then final touches like coiled ropes, anchors, and display prep. Not long now before she’s ready for her display case and the spotlight she deserves!



Proudly flying the Cross of St George and the Union Jack — the HMS Victory stands tall once again!

 

[GrantTyler]

Another Big Milestone on the HMS Victory!

Another two sails tied today — and with that, the entire foremast is now complete!

This one was a serious effort; there’s so much going on up front with all the lines, blocks, and braces converging around the bowsprit and lower yards. Every single rope needed to be positioned just right to keep the sails set as if they’re catching a light wind.

It’s honestly one of the most rewarding parts of the build so far — seeing the Victory take on that powerful, full-sail look that she’s famous for. The contrast between the natural sail cloth, the black-and-yellow hull, and the coppered bottom really makes her come alive.

Looking at her now, it’s hard to believe how far this build has come — from the first keel plank to this moment, with the sails stretched out and the rigging webbed like a real working ship. There’s still more to do, but she’s so close to completion now.

It’s been a long and detailed journey, but I can’t help standing back and thinking, “What a magnificent sight she must have been in full sail on the open sea.”

Next up — finishing the remaining sails on the mizzen masts, then final touches like coiled ropes, anchors, and display prep. Not long now before she’s ready for her display case and the spotlight she deserves!



Proudly flying the Cross of St George and the Union Jack — the HMS Victory stands tall once again!

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Good morning Phillip.

Another Big Milestone on the HMS Victory!

Another two sails tied today — and with that, the entire foremast is now complete!

This one was a serious effort; there’s so much going on up front with all the lines, blocks, and braces converging around the bowsprit and lower yards. Every single rope needed to be positioned just right to keep the sails set as if they’re catching a light wind.

It’s honestly one of the most rewarding parts of the build so far — seeing the Victory take on that powerful, full-sail look that she’s famous for. The contrast between the natural sail cloth, the black-and-yellow hull, and the coppered bottom really makes her come alive.

Looking at her now, it’s hard to believe how far this build has come — from the first keel plank to this moment, with the sails stretched out and the rigging webbed like a real working ship. There’s still more to do, but she’s so close to completion now.

It’s been a long and detailed journey, but I can’t help standing back and thinking, “What a magnificent sight she must have been in full sail on the open sea.”

Next up — finishing the remaining sails on the mizzen masts, then final touches like coiled ropes, anchors, and display prep. Not long now before she’s ready for her display case and the spotlight she deserves!



Proudly flying the Cross of St George and the Union Jack — the HMS Victory stands tall once again!

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Good morning Phillip. Lovely job on those sails. I like the way you got the loose look and feel - nice. Having built the same model I know what a beast of a ship she is. A very cool model to display. Cheers Grant