Hi. I have wanted to try my hand at wooden models for a long time now, I guess I was a little intimidated by what looks like a pretty complex hobby. I built plenty of plastic models over the years (mostly aircraft) but it has been a while. I have decided now is the time, baby steps, start out slowly and hopefully take advantage of all the experts that are on this forum as I learn from building.
My hope is to eventually build a nice model of the USS Constitution, that ship has a special meaning to me. My father was among the crew that did her retrofit in the 70's, he died in 2018 and I got a large piece of Old Ironsides from his time on board on display in his memory as well as a nice picture to accompany it (once I figure out how to post pictures I will if anyone is interested). I'd love to add a nice model to display with it. I don't want to even attempt that build until I am experienced as well as confident that I can make a high quality model. I retire in less than 8 years (not that I am counting) and I figure that would be a good time to tackle that--give myself a good 8 years of practice and then when I have plenty of time in retirement giving that build the effort it deserves (and giving me a hobby/project that keeps me busy and off my wifes nerves).
My question to everyone here, what is a good beginner kit? What tools should I have on hand? I'd love to have tools that last so I am willing to spend more $$. Any good books for reference?
Thanks in advance.
My hope is to eventually build a nice model of the USS Constitution, that ship has a special meaning to me. My father was among the crew that did her retrofit in the 70's, he died in 2018 and I got a large piece of Old Ironsides from his time on board on display in his memory as well as a nice picture to accompany it (once I figure out how to post pictures I will if anyone is interested). I'd love to add a nice model to display with it. I don't want to even attempt that build until I am experienced as well as confident that I can make a high quality model. I retire in less than 8 years (not that I am counting) and I figure that would be a good time to tackle that--give myself a good 8 years of practice and then when I have plenty of time in retirement giving that build the effort it deserves (and giving me a hobby/project that keeps me busy and off my wifes nerves).
My question to everyone here, what is a good beginner kit? What tools should I have on hand? I'd love to have tools that last so I am willing to spend more $$. Any good books for reference?
Thanks in advance.