New to Wooden Ship Modeling

I have seen many people on the forums who have succeeded with a large ship as their first build.
May think it's a bit silly to question the judgment of adults.
If the neighbor starts to expand the house, do you go there and ask him to start with a playhouse? :)

Joking aside, just take it easy and methodical and you'll be fine.
You probably have about 500 productive hours ahead of you.

Use balsa, foam can shrink as it ages. I can imagine that in the worst case it comes loose and lies rattling in the ship.
You can grind with a Dremel.
But I usually use a 50-grit sandpaper file. When I made a 100 cm long hull, it took a few hours to make the entire filling between each frame in the hull.
 
Here is my build of Vasa, I use 6 och 10 mm balsa.

Vasa 1628, Billing boats, 1:75

The kit was bought in 2016 but if I remember correctly I started building it in 2020. Had trouble getting the frames straight. Unfortunately, some parts were crooked, today I had returned the kit as the wood material was not good. For example, there were twigs in some parts and some were...
shipsofscale.com

Let's see who finishes first. :)
 
ubjs said:
Here is my build of Vasa, I use 6 och 10 mm balsa.

Vasa 1628, Billing boats, 1:75

The kit was bought in 2016 but if I remember correctly I started building it in 2020. Had trouble getting the frames straight. Unfortunately, some parts were crooked, today I had returned the kit as the wood material was not good. For example, there were twigs in some parts and some were...
shipsofscale.com

Let's see who finishes first. :)
Click to expand...
Oh my...you can definitely see it's off throughout the bulkheads. I can imagine how frustrating that is when the kit you got was actually substandard. In my build, I used some 1/4 pieces of wood to shore up the walls so that port and starboard sides were the same exact measurement. I found this to be the easiest way once the bulkheads are placed in the keel wall and match the reference line that was drawn out in the beginning. This prevents the ship from taking the shape of a banana, lol. Sometimes you might need a filler to align different areas, but in your picture, filling and sanding and realigning isn't worth it. I hope they reimbursed you for the costs.
 
I have a bigger, better kit for Vasa, the one that Artesania Latina has made in 1:65 scale. Just thought I'd practice a bit on this one. The real Vasa wasn't that straight either. :)
Maybe the grandkids will get to play with this one when I've made as much as I feel like.
 
rturcic72 said:
Hi, my name is Rob. I am a retired Mustang Navy Commander, 30 years. I promised myself after I retired from the Navy, that I would build a wooden model ship as a reminder of my service and the Navy's rich traditions from the last couple of hundred years. Six years after retirement, I finally took the leap of faith and started with the USS Constitution from Model Expo.

I grew up building lots of models, primarily plastic military aircraft and Navy ships. Am I an expert, not by a long stretch when I see some of the amazing talent that is out there and how this hobby has progressed over 40 years. I love it and find it relaxing to read, research, build, and take your time in creating your own work of art.

As a young Naval Officer, I remember the first time visiting the USS Constitution in Boston Harbour and was completely fascinated by her history and the symbol of today's Navy. I had gone into the museum which had the gift store and remember seeing a man inside a workshop building a wooden ship in the same vein as the USS Constitution. He sat building this model in a room that could only be viewed by windows to the outside of the shop. The moment I saw this, I was, "that's what I want to do after I retire as a hobby."

Luckily, I discovered that we can actually buy the entire kit and build it. As a new Ensign, I almost fell over when I saw the price tag was over $1200...and I understand why now, after all these years about why that is. Suffice it to say, I bought the kit, replenished my modeling paints and tools and then some because I was aware of extra woodworking tools and glues to use for the project.

I started building about 4 weeks ago and I must admit, it is a bit more challenging than I expected. Reading the blueprint of the actual ship-build is a little different that reading a regular diagram or schematic. Luckily there are some resources online via video or with pictures and explanations including advice on how to do it. I will be adding photos periodically showing progress, even if it doesn't look pretty.

On the weekend, I completed the bulkheads and bevels and shored up the bulkhead, so everything aligns on the port and starboard side of the ship...the reference lines worked out well because it's easy to sand down the center keel a hair wider to ensure the bulkhead reaches the bearding line.

Right now, I am getting ready to build the bow and stern filler blocks as well as the counter-block in the stern. It is very intimidating to read and/or create. This is where I've seen tricks from cutting and sanding wood blocks to using expandable foam and shaping it if your blocks of wood become a casualty if you mess up the block of wood royally, lol. Is it an honest shortcut to make it easier, or is it frowned upon using the foam to almost create the same thing without the blood, sweat, and tears of your hand wood carving tools? If anyone has thoughts about this particular question, I would be interested on what other users' opinions that have gone through this.

I look forward to being a part of the forum of like hobbyists and enjoying the journey. Something I have to remember is that in the beginning, it's not going to look pretty and there's plenty of time to correct all sorts of problems like my Bearding line and Rabbett looking ugly compared to some really nice pictures out there. I just need to sand it smoothly a little bit and come as close as possible.

Best regards,

Rob
Click to expand...
Welcome aboard! I see you have discovered the Build Logs. They can be a useful reference as you build and maybe have questions. Again, welcome to the Forum!
 
Welcome aboard, Rob! You've come to the right place. Thank you for your dedicated 30-year service. It's very impressive. USMC here, 75-79. My family hails from a little town close to Scranton, called Moosic, PA.

SoS is a great place to learn about the best practices of ship modeling, problem solving, connect with people and make some new friends. Again, welcome!
 
rturcic72 said:
Hi, my name is Rob. I am a retired Mustang Navy Commander, 30 years. I promised myself after I retired from the Navy, that I would build a wooden model ship as a reminder of my service and the Navy's rich traditions from the last couple of hundred years. Six years after retirement, I finally took the leap of faith and started with the USS Constitution from Model Expo.

I grew up building lots of models, primarily plastic military aircraft and Navy ships. Am I an expert, not by a long stretch when I see some of the amazing talent that is out there and how this hobby has progressed over 40 years. I love it and find it relaxing to read, research, build, and take your time in creating your own work of art.

As a young Naval Officer, I remember the first time visiting the USS Constitution in Boston Harbour and was completely fascinated by her history and the symbol of today's Navy. I had gone into the museum which had the gift store and remember seeing a man inside a workshop building a wooden ship in the same vein as the USS Constitution. He sat building this model in a room that could only be viewed by windows to the outside of the shop. The moment I saw this, I was, "that's what I want to do after I retire as a hobby."

Luckily, I discovered that we can actually buy the entire kit and build it. As a new Ensign, I almost fell over when I saw the price tag was over $1200...and I understand why now, after all these years about why that is. Suffice it to say, I bought the kit, replenished my modeling paints and tools and then some because I was aware of extra woodworking tools and glues to use for the project.

I started building about 4 weeks ago and I must admit, it is a bit more challenging than I expected. Reading the blueprint of the actual ship-build is a little different that reading a regular diagram or schematic. Luckily there are some resources online via video or with pictures and explanations including advice on how to do it. I will be adding photos periodically showing progress, even if it doesn't look pretty.

On the weekend, I completed the bulkheads and bevels and shored up the bulkhead, so everything aligns on the port and starboard side of the ship...the reference lines worked out well because it's easy to sand down the center keel a hair wider to ensure the bulkhead reaches the bearding line.

Right now, I am getting ready to build the bow and stern filler blocks as well as the counter-block in the stern. It is very intimidating to read and/or create. This is where I've seen tricks from cutting and sanding wood blocks to using expandable foam and shaping it if your blocks of wood become a casualty if you mess up the block of wood royally, lol. Is it an honest shortcut to make it easier, or is it frowned upon using the foam to almost create the same thing without the blood, sweat, and tears of your hand wood carving tools? If anyone has thoughts about this particular question, I would be interested on what other users' opinions that have gone through this.

I look forward to being a part of the forum of like hobbyists and enjoying the journey. Something I have to remember is that in the beginning, it's not going to look pretty and there's plenty of time to correct all sorts of problems like my Bearding line and Rabbett looking ugly compared to some really nice pictures out there. I just need to sand it smoothly a little bit and come as close as possible.

Best regards,

Rob
Click to expand...
Welcome! From Williamsburg.
 
Hi there! As with the others I also thank you for your service. I was wondering if you knew that the window you looked through at the Constitution pier is staffed by a hobbyist group? They are still around and have monthly zoom meetings that anyone can participate in and a good newsletter. Have fun!

USS Constitution Model Shipwright Guild https://www.usscmsg.org/welcome​

 
Hello Rob and welcome to the forums and also thank you for your service. I am also working on Model Shipways Constitution and I couldn’t have gotten as far as I am without the use of Bob Hunt’s practicum. It’s a wise investment and you will discover many of your answers as you proceed. You should google Lauck street shipyard and you see all the practicums he offers. He offers many technique hints and you will learn a lot. Check out other build logs for the Constitution on this forum including mine. By the way, your questions about bow and stem fillers and the counter piece are outlined beautifully in the practicum.
 
Last edited:
Hi Rob, I choose the Model Expo Constitution as my first wooden ship kit to build. Yes, it is intimidating, I found the booklet that came with the kit difficult to use.
I got through the bulkheads like you did and then the filler blocks. The bow blocks were not too difficult; however, the stern blocks were tough. You won't find out how good or bad you made them until you start to plank the hull. I made mine too big. I had to adjust them. The same with the gun ports. I had to do them a second time as I missed some important steps. What I finally did was to purchase a practicum on the model from Bob Hunt. I think he is a member here Once I got the practicum it was smooth sailing I stopped making mistakes and saw my progress much more rewarding. The practicums give you very detailed instructions and pictures to get every step right. I think I purchased two practicums from Bob. One for the hull and mast and one for the rigging. If you get hung up on a detail you can ask Bob for help.
It took me twenty-two and a half months to complete my model. I think there are pictures of it in here. If you can't find them, I will be more than happy to send you a few. Also, if you have any questions that I can help you with, please let me know. I will be glad to provide my e mail if you want it.
Best of luck to you and don't ever let yourself get frustrated. There are all kinds of help on here and as I said Bob Hunts Practicums are the best instructions you can get. I found my pictures of my completed model. attached. I actually made two trips to Boston to see the real ship. One being a private tour of the entire Constitution. I have hundreds of pictures of my model at various stages of her construction.

IMGP5913.JPG
 
JimD said:
Hi Rob, I choose the Model Expo Constitution as my first wooden ship kit to build. Yes, it is intimidating, I found the booklet that came with the kit difficult to use.
I got through the bulkheads like you did and then the filler blocks. The bow blocks were not too difficult; however, the stern blocks were tough. You won't find out how good or bad you made them until you start to plank the hull. I made mine too big. I had to adjust them. The same with the gun ports. I had to do them a second time as I missed some important steps. What I finally did was to purchase a practicum on the model from Bob Hunt. I think he is a member here Once I got the practicum it was smooth sailing I stopped making mistakes and saw my progress much more rewarding. The practicums give you very detailed instructions and pictures to get every step right. I think I purchased two practicums from Bob. One for the hull and mast and one for the rigging. If you get hung up on a detail you can ask Bob for help.
It took me twenty-two and a half months to complete my model. I think there are pictures of it in here. If you can't find them, I will be more than happy to send you a few. Also, if you have any questions that I can help you with, please let me know. I will be glad to provide my e mail if you want it.
Best of luck to you and don't ever let yourself get frustrated. There are all kinds of help on here and as I said Bob Hunts Practicums are the best instructions you can get. I found my pictures of my completed model. attached. I actually made two trips to Boston to see the real ship. One being a private tour of the entire Constitution. I have hundreds of pictures of my model at various stages of her construction.

View attachment 510663
Click to expand...
Beautiful job.
 
Hi Jim. Actually the name is also Rob (Kahn) and I’ve been working on her for a little over a year. If you go to the top of this thread and click on my “picture” you can see my “feed” and that has the build log. My “picture” is a two masted schooner in Penobscot Bay near where I live. I’m putting the finishing touches on the deck furniture and caronades right now. Just had bunion surgery on Friday so I can’t hobble upstairs to where my setup is. That gives me time to think about the best way to model some of the upcoming items. Like cannon rigging. Brass canopies over the hatches, etc. Check out my build log.
 
Hi Rob, you are well on your way and your Constitution looks beautiful. Excellent job!!! I am finishing up on my sixth ship now. It is the Prince DE Neufchatel, I have Built the US Brig Syren, US Brig Niagara the US Brig Rattlesnake and the HMS President. I build my own cases. I will be starting the case for the Prince De Neufchatel next. I don't have any more room for another ship. I really love building wooden ships. My wife said I should do another one and just give it to one of my sons. I guess I will take a summer break and look for another ship towards the fall. You are doing a great job on your model. Keep in touch if you have time. BTW when I was a kid we lived in Maine in the same town as you are in now. Belfast. My father loved Maine.
 
Hey Jim where are you located? We love Belfast. Been here since 2020. Wonderful shipyard, lots of artisans, really friendly people. Bluejacket ship crafters right down the road. I get to visit the Constitution every time I get down to Boston and I belong to their shipmodeler’s guild. USSCSMG.
BTW. did you build a case yet for your Constitution? It would be a big one. I’m running out of room too and have many more ships in the pipeline as well.
 
Good morning, Rob, I am located in North Dighton, MA. It is 35 miles south of Boston next to Taunton MA. My wife and I have lived here over 30 plus years. Very small town and very rural. We love it here. I belong to several wooden model ship blogs one being a Constitution Blog. Also, this blog. I built my case right away as I wanted to get the ship protected. I bought the plans for the case, and I must say it came out perfect. There is a glass company in Taunton the came to my house and picked up the case and took it to their shop where they installed the glass. When it was done, they delivered it back to my house. My youngest son and I carried it down to my finished basement. I made a removable back on the case as it was very large. After cleaning the glass, we carefully place the Constitution in her home and put the back on and move her to her location. She has been there for several years now. She looks wonderful in her case. Putting model ships the size we build is very difficult. My cases have a wooden and glass frame, so the case has to be lifted up and over the ship. That is not an easy task. So far, no mishaps.
Are you using a Bob Hunt Practicum?
 
Jim.
Well we’re practically neighbors. The Constitution will have a special place of it’s own in my “man cave” over the garage. I’ll make the case myself and have to source the wood. Probably oak because it’s “Old Ironsides”. I bought a case kit many years ago from Model Shipways but alas my measurements were too small. It’ll go with another ship.
Yes I’m using Hunt’s practicum. I find it so very clear in its explanations and pictures. I had never used a practicum in my previous models, but I’ll probably only build models that have been “practicumed”. My next will be Philadelphia gunboat. Doing it with Olha’s group build. I started in my teens with plastic age of sail ships and quickly moved on to wood while in med school. My list of builds shows up with my signature on SoS posts.
I’ll be at the NE ship model conference in New London in April 26. Are you going? If so hope to meet you there.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top