La Belle 1684 Build by Randy Halter

[Randy Halter]

Hello Everyone,

This is my scratch build model of the La Belle 1684. My plans are by Jean Boudriot. This build is completely scratch and no computer or CNC machines are being used. I started the model in November 2024 and have made some progress. Please feel free to leave questions and feedback, all is welcome and appreciated. I am not a computer guy so please don't get offend if I take awhile to get back to you. I will be doing picture updates periodically as I complete thing. I am really enjoying building this boat and look forward to updating you all in the future. Thanks for looking.

 

[Randy Halter]

More Pictures.

 

[Randy Halter]

More pictures.

 

[dockattner]

Lovely work, Randy. I think I see oak? Walnut? What else?

 

[Randy Halter]

Thank you Paul. I'm using box wood, cedar, oak, and walnut. Those are the only woods I've used on it so far, and will probably be the only woods I use.

 

[dockattner]

Thank you Paul. I'm using box wood, cedar, oak, and walnut. Those are the only woods I've used on it so far, and will probably be the only woods I use.

Ah yes. Now I see that it is cedar. I like the craftsman style of this and your earlier work.

 

[AllanKP69]

I'm using box wood, cedar, oak, and walnut.

Loving your build Randy, thanks for sharing your work. Can you say where you were able to find/buy the boxwood and which parts are made from it.
Many thanks
Allan

 

[Randy Halter]

Thanks Allan. I buy my box wood at Hobby Lobby.

 

[dockattner]

Thanks Allan. I buy my box wood at Hobby Lobby.

Basswood?

 

[Randy Halter]

Yes, meant basswood. I'm getting old!

 

[shota70]

excellent work, Randy
it's going to be beautiful model
I will keep following with great curiosity

 

[Tony P]

Excellent work Randy. Thanks now I have another reference build to admire and go by. What is the Scale ?

 

[MisterCA]

Thank you Paul. I'm using box wood, cedar, oak, and walnut. Those are the only woods I've used on it so far, and will probably be the only woods I use.

It seems a shame to cover up the framing which is beautiful. Especially with the different wood tones.

 

[Magic Mike]

Randy, Very impressive woodworking and detail. Enjoying your build. Magic Mike

 

[Randy Halter]

It’s a 1/36 scale.

 

[Robert D]

Randy
You have done a wonderful job with your model. I particularly like the details of the deck beams.
Much of the original La Belle is in a museum I hope to visit someday: https://www.thestoryoftexas.com/la-belle/the-exhibit
There is also an interesting article by Glenn Grieco on La Belle that provides additional archaeological details not in Jean Boudroit’s text or plans.
I modeled La Belle two years ago following Grieco’s reconstruction, which makes the vessel less ornate.
Looking forward for more of your progress.
Robert