L'Orenoque Mamoli 1:100 scale

[Martin By Eye]

I too like having something with plans and a basic structure to build on. But experience is showing me that the amount of work and scratch building is only marginally reduced than if you just do the necessary research, acquire the best plans you can get and start from scratch. Beyond a bandsaw and a few other basic, mostly miniature, power tools and some good basic hand tools. you will probably do just as well with less hassle overall. Most of the wood you will need can be purchased in sizes milled pretty close to what you will require with a minimum of fuss. The resources for aftermarket parts and fittings are vast. If you've bashed enough kits, you already know the drill. And the trick to success is keeping control over your ambition. Good enough is a whole lot better and easier to achieve than putting your finished product beyond your grasp. Your model won't be judged by what isn't there. Only by what is.
Like buying a lottery ticket, starting with a kit will only marginally improves your chances of success.

Pete

I agree completely with Peter, it's not because of using a few commercial blocks , or not turning your own cannons on your own lathe, that a scratchbuild from plans becomes a kit. It just means there is a far vaster choice of subjects and it is you who has control of what you build. the same basic tools are usually sufficient. I think it is important to avoid total perfectionism as it can destroy creativity, and your health, sometimes.