• 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 MARCH/APRIL 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.

Hello from the UK

Joined
May 9, 2026
Messages
4
Points
18
Location
Thornton-Cleveleys
Hello everyone,

I’m completely new to wooden ship modelling and currently deep in the research phase before starting my first build. After looking at a lot of beginner kits, I keep coming back to the Vanguard Models HM Armed Cutter Sherbourne 1763, which will probably become my first serious project.

I’ve been spending time reading build logs, watching planking and rigging tutorials, and trying to understand the tools and techniques before taking the plunge. The craftsmanship and historical side of the hobby really appeal to me, especially the rigging and traditional seamanship aspects.

I’m sure I’ll have plenty of beginner questions along the way, so I’m looking forward to learning from the experience and knowledge on this forum.

Thanks for having me aboard!
Dave
 
Welcome! This is a great place for new model ship crafters. I'm less than 1 year into this hobby and loving the advice I get from SoS members. Set course for the horizon...it will be a great sail!
 
welcome from Dorset.
Vanguard Models HM Armed Cutter Sherbourne looks a like a good choice. Nice looking model with not too many masts to tie ratlines on (a tedious task) and modest number of cannon. The fact that the hull is painted may be useful in the (unlikely) event of your first planking efforts needing a disguising cover! The model will cover most of the techniques required: the big flamboyant models usually involve their endless repetition.
Enjoy.
 
Hello everyone,

I’m completely new to wooden ship modelling and currently deep in the research phase before starting my first build. After looking at a lot of beginner kits, I keep coming back to the Vanguard Models HM Armed Cutter Sherbourne 1763, which will probably become my first serious project.

I’ve been spending time reading build logs, watching planking and rigging tutorials, and trying to understand the tools and techniques before taking the plunge. The craftsmanship and historical side of the hobby really appeal to me, especially the rigging and traditional seamanship aspects.

I’m sure I’ll have plenty of beginner questions along the way, so I’m looking forward to learning from the experience and knowledge on this forum.
Winbet casino Bangladesh
Thanks for having me aboard!
Dave
Welcome aboard, Dave! You've already got the right approach by spending time researching before opening the first kit. The Sherbourne is often recommended for a reason—it's a beautiful model and a great introduction to plank-on-bulkhead construction without being overwhelmingly complex.
Don't worry too much about getting everything perfect before you start. Most of us learned the hobby by building, making mistakes, and learning from them. Looking forward to seeing your build log when you take the plunge. The Vanguard kits have a great reputation and make for an excellent first serious project.
 
Back
Top