• Ships of Scale has incorportated an extra level of security when you log In. Please follow on-screen prompts to acknowledge that you are not a robot via a "Check Box" or a "Pictorial Check Box Puzzle". This is needed due to higher level of AI Activity Security.
  • SUBSCRIBE TO SHIPS IN SCALE TODAY!

    The beloved Ships in Scale Magazine is back and charting a new course for 2026!
    Discover new skills, new techniques, and new inspirations in every issue.

    NOTE THAT OUR NEXT ISSUE WILL BE July/August 2026
  • Win a Free Custom Engraved Brass Coin!!!
    As a way to introduce our brass coins to the community, we will raffle off a free coin during the month of August. Follow link ABOVE for instructions for entering.

Emma C. Berry Build Log

The ship has now been inadvertently stress tested, see picture below...

I am shocked that there was so little damage, this new glue I am using turned out to be a much needed upgrade.

I will be re-assembling the frames that broke apart and getting everything lined back up.

I have read a couple comments now stating that I should spend the time/effort to brace the frames and I have decided I will be taking this advice. I am lucky to have had all my frames hold shape so far (even post 'crash test' surprisingly) and I don't want to push my luck.

My main reason for not wanting to install braces was to prevent split frames, something I read in another log for the same kit. The other reason being how I would remove the braces without causing damage or misaligning everything. The instructions say to remove the braces to install the "Clamp" (a long stringer that attaches inboard of the frames) then the spacers/braces for the frames...

I find this confusing because now I am installing balsa strips along an unsupported hull because I won't be included supports for the frame spacing back in until AFTER this is complete. This seems counterproductive to me and figured I would just install the frame braces in after that was done to save effort and mitigate risk.

Hoping someone smarter than me can help me understand this a bit better.

20261013_141215.jpg

17919172650088673239435095700428.jpg

17919172927968594260703331683887.jpg
 
Good repair work! I wonder if it would be possible to slide the clamps into place without removing the majority of the cross-braces? I'd also suggest using a tiny dab of white glue instead of a pin, it can be easily removed later with alcohol.
 
Hi Guy, I enjoyed building this kit, and I am sure you will as well. I had some difficulty keeping all the frames square and level, even with the structure on the building board. My build log is attached, and if you have any questions, I'll try to remember what I did. It took me about 3 years, and I finished it several years ago. The last I knew, Emma Berry is at Mystic Seaport and out of the water for repairs.
Guy
 

Attachments

Haha! I recognize the plans I have hanging up in my workshop in your photo of Sheet 2! Hope your build is going well, I am a little stalled in the framing at the moment.

Fred
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top