Readers might like to know that I had the pleasure to meet-up with the late Jim Roberts when I visited New York from Hong Kong in 1996. He had previously mentioned, in the first ship-modellers 'lList', laser wood-cutting technology for model kit parts and we discussed an HMS Surprise kit venture - with the production process based in China. After meeting in Manhatten bar for some Navy talk (Jim was a former submariner) he later invited me to his home to meet his wife for a family supper and he showed me some of his models. He also very kindly gave me a copy of his excellent, very well-written book which covers all aspects of hull and deck planking, with clear diagrams and which also included practical advice on finishing methods. I treasure it to this day.
He went into some detail to answer my questions about lining-out the garboard strake. He recommended two lengths of planking stock glued edge-wise and to the length from stem to stern at the keel rabbet. Then trim/spile the 'upper' - ie the sheer-side plank- to its narrowest at the stem (as shown in Gennaro's photo above) and thence marking and cutting a fair line to the broadest width (ie two-plank width) at the stern-post. Spile and lay the remaining planks as required.
The KISS Method is always best!
Rest in Peace, Jim.
He went into some detail to answer my questions about lining-out the garboard strake. He recommended two lengths of planking stock glued edge-wise and to the length from stem to stern at the keel rabbet. Then trim/spile the 'upper' - ie the sheer-side plank- to its narrowest at the stem (as shown in Gennaro's photo above) and thence marking and cutting a fair line to the broadest width (ie two-plank width) at the stern-post. Spile and lay the remaining planks as required.
The KISS Method is always best!
Rest in Peace, Jim.