Thank youI would cut them and shorten them before bending and gluing. Leave some little bit meat as an overlength, so you can sand the ends to the correct shape.
Yes, before stain the planks, you should fill the gaps with a filler, but... you have to make sure the filler is stainable and match the color of you timber.My question is if I am staining the planking should I use a wood filler to fill the gaps?
Also if I paint the planks should I fill the gaps?
I finally finished the planking on the 18th century Longboat. Through many mistakes (probably the entire planking) I think I have learned a little more on planking.
My question is if I am staining the planking should I use a wood filler to fill the gaps?
Also if I paint the planks should I fill the gaps?
Final question.....from what you can see did I do the planking correctly?View attachment 152518View attachment 152519
Thank you for your reply. I guess I got confused with the plans as it said to..."take the lowest plank or garboard, twist it to nearly 45 degrees as it ends up flat on the keel towards the stern". Looking at the photo they provided (which is isn't very good) this is where I got confused and where the planks went wrong for the build of the planks. The spacing of the bow planking really confused me, I used a planking fan to determine the planks on the bow, guessing that was wrong also to use. Again thanks for your help.Hello David.
You did a good job on planking, and for sure, the next time it will be much better. If you don't mind, I want to discuss a couple of points. I have noticed that some planks are wider than others. At least they appeared to be on you your photo. I am not sure what kit manufacturer suggested in the kit, but hull planks should be the same width (for the most part) expect the garboard plank. Speaking about the 'garboard' plank. Take a look close to the stern post. This plank has to merged in to 'rabbet' in the kill and make smooth transition. This is where you missed to cut both a 'rabbet ' and 'bearding lines ( image courtesy of @Winston ) from Model Shipbuilder forum
The 'Garboard plank' is the only odd plank with its own shape and width. The rest of the planks have to be the same width. This is why you get a bit of mashup at the bow area. The next time you would calculate the number of planks needed to cover the hull as the will be the same size.
Yes, before stain the planks, you should fill the gaps with a filler, but... you have to make sure the filler is stainable and match the color of you timber.
If you decide towards painting the hull, you can use pretty much any type of filler to fill the gaps and imperfections. Also take into consideration and work out the garboard plank. At this point sand off flash with 'deadwood' area .
Hope it will help