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

 

[Phillipsart]

After a few very busy weeks away from the bench, I finally managed to spend some time back on my HMS Victory build — and I’ve got to say, I’m absolutely loving how she’s coming together.

The sails have truly transformed her look. Using the running rigging to shape and tension each sail was a real challenge — there’s an art to getting that natural “billow” as if they’re catching a steady breeze — but I think I’ve finally nailed the effect. Each line had to be carefully adjusted to make the sails look alive and dynamic, and seeing them fill out like this is incredibly rewarding.

This week I managed to tie and mount the front three sails, each one taking careful planning and patient rigging to get the right geometry and balance. Now just one more sail to go before the full set is complete.

Seeing her with most of her canvas up really brings this ship to life — the proportions, the realism, and the presence are just incredible in person. Every hour spent on this stage has been worth it.

Next up will be that final sail and a bit more fine-tuning of the lines before moving on to the remaining deck details. Slowly but surely, Victory is looking ready for sea.

️ Scale: 1:78 Mantua Panart HMS Victory
Stage: Running rigging and sails
Progress: 16 sails mounted — 1 to go!

 

[Phillipsart]

HMS Victory Build – A Milestone Reached!

After many months of dedication, patience, and late nights in the workshop, I’ve finally reached a huge milestone — the sails are now fully completed and mounted on my Mantua HMS Victory (1:78)!

That’s 17 sails tied, shaped, and rigged by hand — each one adjusted carefully with the running rigging to capture that perfect “wind-filled” look. It’s taken an enormous amount of time to get every line and sheet tensioned just right, but the end result was absolutely worth it. The way the sails billow gives this model such a sense of life and movement, as if she’s about to sail out of my workshop.

This build has been a real labour of love from day one. From the first plank on the hull to the last block on the rigging, every stage has been both a challenge and a joy. The copper-plated hull, the complex masts and yards, the maze of rigging — all came together piece by piece over months of careful work.

While I’m building two other ships alongside this one, this Victory will actually be my first full completion, and that makes it even more special. She’s the ship that’s taught me more than any other — about patience, precision, and historical detail.

There are still a few finishing touches to go — the anchors need to be fitted, and I’ll be adding the chain and linkage to the rudder — but she’s nearly there. Once complete, I’ll finally be able to call her finished, and that will be an amazing moment after such a long journey.

Every time I look at her now, sitting proudly with all sails set, I can’t help but feel proud. From the flags flying high to the fine web of rigging, she truly captures the spirit of Nelson’s flagship.

It’s been a long road — measured not just in months, but in thousands of knots, dozens of lines, and endless cups of coffee — but I’ve loved every part of it.

 

[GrantTyler]

HMS Victory Build – A Milestone Reached!

After many months of dedication, patience, and late nights in the workshop, I’ve finally reached a huge milestone — the sails are now fully completed and mounted on my Mantua HMS Victory (1:78)!

That’s 17 sails tied, shaped, and rigged by hand — each one adjusted carefully with the running rigging to capture that perfect “wind-filled” look. It’s taken an enormous amount of time to get every line and sheet tensioned just right, but the end result was absolutely worth it. The way the sails billow gives this model such a sense of life and movement, as if she’s about to sail out of my workshop.

This build has been a real labour of love from day one. From the first plank on the hull to the last block on the rigging, every stage has been both a challenge and a joy. The copper-plated hull, the complex masts and yards, the maze of rigging — all came together piece by piece over months of careful work.

While I’m building two other ships alongside this one, this Victory will actually be my first full completion, and that makes it even more special. She’s the ship that’s taught me more than any other — about patience, precision, and historical detail.

There are still a few finishing touches to go — the anchors need to be fitted, and I’ll be adding the chain and linkage to the rudder — but she’s nearly there. Once complete, I’ll finally be able to call her finished, and that will be an amazing moment after such a long journey.

Every time I look at her now, sitting proudly with all sails set, I can’t help but feel proud. From the flags flying high to the fine web of rigging, she truly captures the spirit of Nelson’s flagship.

It’s been a long road — measured not just in months, but in thousands of knots, dozens of lines, and endless cups of coffee — but I’ve loved every part of it.

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Congrats Phil. Those sails really make the ship. Cheers Grant

 

[Papatotalos]

HMS Victory Build – A Milestone Reached!

After many months of dedication, patience, and late nights in the workshop, I’ve finally reached a huge milestone — the sails are now fully completed and mounted on my Mantua HMS Victory (1:78)!

That’s 17 sails tied, shaped, and rigged by hand — each one adjusted carefully with the running rigging to capture that perfect “wind-filled” look. It’s taken an enormous amount of time to get every line and sheet tensioned just right, but the end result was absolutely worth it. The way the sails billow gives this model such a sense of life and movement, as if she’s about to sail out of my workshop.

This build has been a real labour of love from day one. From the first plank on the hull to the last block on the rigging, every stage has been both a challenge and a joy. The copper-plated hull, the complex masts and yards, the maze of rigging — all came together piece by piece over months of careful work.

While I’m building two other ships alongside this one, this Victory will actually be my first full completion, and that makes it even more special. She’s the ship that’s taught me more than any other — about patience, precision, and historical detail.

There are still a few finishing touches to go — the anchors need to be fitted, and I’ll be adding the chain and linkage to the rudder — but she’s nearly there. Once complete, I’ll finally be able to call her finished, and that will be an amazing moment after such a long journey.

Every time I look at her now, sitting proudly with all sails set, I can’t help but feel proud. From the flags flying high to the fine web of rigging, she truly captures the spirit of Nelson’s flagship.

It’s been a long road — measured not just in months, but in thousands of knots, dozens of lines, and endless cups of coffee — but I’ve loved every part of it.

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Yes Phil, you can be proud with this amazing result. It looks great.
Be careful if you start working on some deck parts. You can stick very quickly in one of the lines.

 

[dockattner]

A huge milestone, indeed, Phil! I'll add my congratulations as well.