Hehehe seriously, my friend!!!remember that I was a relatively latecomer to this forum, so to speak. I’ve been focusing mostly on the rigging issues, which I still haven't managed to resolve, but that’s a whole other story! Of course, I’ve been following your posts regarding the 3D decorations you’re creating, but I wasn't 100% aware that you were actually building a kit while incorporating your own custom modifications. You know, I really love that idea because as you rightly point out by making all those changes, you delve much deeper into the actual historical reality of the ship. I also suspect that the build has taken you so long not just because of the modifications, but also because you’ve undertaken the project of creating all the decorative pieces in 3D, which I think is an absolutely brilliant idea! Speaking of which, I’m not particularly fond of the figures and ornaments included in the standard kit. So, I figure I have two options: either I try to improve them myself using a Dremel and a whole lot of patience, or I just wait to see what results you come up with! Hahaha. You know, eventually, you could pitch this idea to the manufacturers; they could grant you a copyright for your work and incorporate those excellent ornaments you’re creating into their kits. From what I can see right now, it seems only Mantua Sergal is producing this model I don't know of any other kit out there. I’m not sure if I mentioned it before, but I actually received my own kit a few weeks ago, though I still haven't opened it yet! Hehehe. I bought it during a sale ModelExpo was running; right now, it’s the best price on the market though, of course, I had to purchase the sails separately, since you know the Mantua kit doesn't come with them included. In short, my dear friend, I’m delighted to discover that you’re also working on the SOTS project. Now I’ll be compelled to go back through the posts from 2022 and 2023 to follow the entire transformation process of your SOTS build!
Sending you a big hug, and I’ll be keeping a close eye on the progress of those ornaments, they’re turning out absolutely excellent! I’ll be messaging you privately soon to ask you a few technical "engineering" questions.
Hahaha. All the best!
Cheers