YUANQING MODELS 1:50 Scale SAN Felipe Build Log.

[Phillipsart]

SAN FELIPE BUILD UPDATE – 1:50 SCALE (ZHL MODELS)

Time for another update on my 1:50 scale SAN Felipe build, and this stage has been one of those slow, detailed, but incredibly satisfying parts of the project.

Over the past few sessions I’ve been focusing on the upper deck fencing and stair structures, and I’m really starting to see the character of this ship come to life.

Upper Deck Fencing Progress

The top deck fencing is now progressing very well. This is one of those areas where accuracy and symmetry really matter, and I’ve been taking my time to ensure everything lines up cleanly along the deck edges. Each section has been carefully dry-fitted, adjusted, and then permanently installed to keep the flow consistent from port to starboard.

At this scale, even the slightest misalignment stands out, so patience is absolutely key here.

Spiral Staircases – A Highlight Feature

I’ve also started work on the spiral staircases, and I have to say — I absolutely love how these are turning out.

So far:

✔ 3 out of the 6 spiral staircases completed

✔ Remaining staircases prepared and staged for assembly

Each staircase is built step-by-step (literally), with individual treads shaped, aligned, and glued one at a time. Once enclosed by the curved timber walls, they really add depth and realism to the deck layout. These staircases are small details, but they make a huge visual impact when viewed from above and through the open deck sections.

Deck Fence Rails Started

In addition to the staircases, I’ve also begun installing the deck fence rails. These rails frame the open deck areas beautifully and help define the layered structure of the ship. Like most things on this build, they require careful measuring, trimming, and repeated test fits before committing with glue.

Overall Thoughts

This stage of the build is definitely more time-consuming than it looks, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. The combination of:

• Rich timber deck tones

• Red bulwarks

• Gold exterior detailing

• And now these finely detailed staircases and railings

…is really starting to bring the San Felipe’s grandeur to life.

There’s still plenty to do, but seeing these features come together makes all the effort worthwhile. Slowly but surely, she’s taking shape exactly how I envisioned.

Thanks for following along — more updates coming soon as the remaining staircases and fencing continue

 

[Phillipsart]

Upper Gun Deck & Companionway Detailing – SAN Felipe 1:50 Scale

Progress continues steadily on the 1:50 scale SAN Felipe, and this stage of the build has been all about refining the upper gun deck layout and structural deck features. While this area may look simple at first glance, it’s actually one of those sections where alignment, symmetry, and clean timber work really stand out once everything is in place.

The deck planking is now fully completed in this section, and I’m very happy with how the natural timber tones are working together. The subtle variation between planks gives the deck life and avoids that flat, uniform look. A light satin finish has really brought the grain out without making it look overdone – just enough sheen to suggest a well-maintained warship rather than something straight off the slipway.

The upper gun deck cannons have now been positioned along both sides, and their spacing and alignment were carefully checked to keep everything consistent port to starboard. The red carriages contrast beautifully against the timber deck and really help break up the wood tones visually. Even at this stage, with no rigging or deck furniture installed above, you can already start to feel the scale and firepower this ship carried.

One of the more time-consuming parts of this stage was constructing and fitting the companionways and curved stair enclosures. These were built up plank by plank to achieve the correct curvature, and getting both sides to match took patience and plenty of dry fitting. The stair openings themselves were carefully trimmed so they sit cleanly within the deck planking.

The handrails and support posts around the companionways were also fabricated and installed during this phase. Keeping everything square and evenly spaced at this scale is fiddly work, but once in place they really elevate the look of the deck. These details add depth and realism and help define how crew would have moved through the ship.

At the aft end, work continues around the stern deck structures, tying the upper gun deck visually into the richly decorated stern. Seeing the deck details come together against the blue and gold stern work really reinforces just how ornate and imposing this ship was meant to be.

Overall, this stage was less about flashy decoration and more about precision timber work and structural realism. It’s a section that won’t always be front-and-centre once the model is complete, but it forms the backbone of the deck layout and will make everything that follows sit correctly and look right.

Slow progress, but very satisfying progress – exactly how I like to build.

 

[Phillipsart]

SAN Felipe 1:50 Scale – Bell Tower & Upper Deck Details Progress Update

Progress continues steadily on my SHL / YuanQing Models 1:50 scale SAN Felipe, and this stage has been particularly enjoyable because it really starts to bring character and purpose to the upper deck.

Over the past sessions, I’ve focused on building and installing the bell tower and starting the balustrades used for tying off the running rigging, along with refining the surrounding deck details.



⸻



Bell Tower Construction

The bell tower was built entirely from scratch components supplied in the kit, with a bit of refinement to improve proportions and alignment.

• The structure is made up of layered timber sections, carefully squared and dry-fitted before final assembly.

• Remembering that this bell would have been used constantly for timekeeping, watches, and shipboard routines, I wanted it to look functional rather than decorative.

• The bell itself sits centrally beneath the upper deck framing, perfectly aligned with the hatch below.

• I kept the timber finish fairly natural, with light staining and sealing, so it blends in with the deck planking rather than standing out too much.

• The darker base helps visually ground the structure and gives the impression of wear from boots, ropes, and constant traffic.

Once installed, it immediately transformed the deck — suddenly the space feels alive and purposeful rather than just planked timber.



⸻



Balustrades / Rigging Rails

I also began work on the balustrades used for tying off the rigging, which are deceptively simple parts but require careful alignment.

• Each rail was dry-fitted multiple times to ensure symmetry port and starboard.

• The uprights had to be perfectly vertical, otherwise they would look twisted once rigging is added.

• These rails will eventually carry a lot of visual weight once lines are belayed, so getting their spacing and height right now is critical.

• Even at this stage, you can already imagine the running rigging draped and tied off, which really helps motivate the build.



⸻



Deck & Cannon Area Refinements

While working in this area, I also took the opportunity to tidy up and review the surrounding details:

• The deck planking continues to look better as it settles and catches the light — the varied timber tones really shine at this scale.

• The cannon placements remain removable for now, which is intentional, allowing access for future rigging and adjustments.

• Stair openings and hatchways are now clearly defined, giving a strong sense of depth when viewed from different angles.

The way the light hits the deck and flows through the openings really highlights just how large and imposing this ship is at 1:50 scale.


⸻



Overall Thoughts


This stage might not be as flashy as gold ornamentation or hull painting, but it’s one of the most satisfying phases so far. These structural details are what make the ship believable — they tell the story of how the vessel actually functioned day-to-day.

Seeing the bell tower in place and the rigging rails starting to take shape really makes the SAN Felipe feel like a working warship rather than a static model.

Next steps will be continuing the balustrades, refining deck fittings, and preparing for the next phase of rigging.

As always, thanks for following along — more progress soon.



— Phil

 

[Phillipsart]

SAN FELIPE 1:50 SCALE – DECK DETAILS

A very satisfying session in the workshop today with some important deck details now completed on the 1:50 scale San Felipe.

The deck grates are now finished and installed, and the bell tower is fully completed, which really brings this area of the ship to life. These are small components individually, but together they add a huge amount of realism and visual depth to the deck.



⸻



Deck Grates – Small Parts, Big Impact

The deck grates took a fair bit of patience, but I’m extremely happy with how they turned out.

• Each grate has been carefully assembled to keep everything square and evenly spaced

• The darker timber used in the grate inserts gives a strong contrast against the lighter deck planking

• Framing around the grates was kept clean and sharp so they sit naturally within the deck rather than looking “dropped in”

• Once installed, they really help break up the deck visually and add that authentic working-ship feel
Seeing them in place really highlights how busy and functional these decks were on a ship like San Felipe.



⸻



Bell Tower – A Real Focal Point

The bell tower is now fully completed, and this has quickly become one of my favourite features on the model so far.

• Built up in layers to give it proper mass and proportion

• Vertical posts are clean and straight, keeping the structure light but strong

• The bell itself sits perfectly centred and visible from multiple angles

• Subtle contrast between timber tones helps separate the structure without overpowering it

It’s one of those details that immediately draws the eye, especially when viewed from above or down the length of the deck.



⸻



Overall Deck Impression

With the grates and bell tower now done, the deck is really starting to feel alive:

• The contrast between planking tones, grates, and fittings works beautifully

• Cannons, bulkheads, staircases, and deck furniture now feel properly tied together

• From any angle, there’s something interesting to look at — no large flat or empty areas

This stage really reinforces why I love working at 1:50 scale. You can add so much detail without it becoming cluttered, and everything still feels well proportioned.

⸻



Next Steps

With these components finished, I can now confidently move on to the next phase of deck detailing and surrounding structures. Each completed section makes the ship feel more cohesive and closer to that final vision I’ve had in my head since starting this build.

As always, I’m not chasing perfection — I’m chasing realism, character, and presence. And at this point, San Felipe is absolutely starting to show all three.

More progress soon

 

[Phillipsart]

Progress Update – YHL 1:50 Scale San Felipe

Progress on my YHL 1:50 scale San Felipe continues to move along nicely, and I’m really starting to see this section of the ship come together as a complete and convincing whole.

Over the past sessions, I’ve focused heavily on the port side details, particularly the areas that will later support the standing and running rigging. A significant milestone has been the completion of more balustrades at the bow, which are critical not just visually, but functionally for tying off rigging lines. These balustrades are small components, but they demand careful alignment and consistency, as any deviation becomes very noticeable at this scale.

I’ve also completed the deadeyes and chain plate installations on the port side, along with the associated deadeye platforms. This was a slow and methodical process, ensuring each deadeye sits square, evenly spaced, and aligned with the gun ports and deck structures above and below. The visual rhythm created by the deadeyes running along the hull is something I always enjoy, as it really defines the character of a ship of this era.

The platforms beneath the gun ports are now in place as well. These add a lot of depth to the hull and break up the flat surfaces nicely. I’ve taken my time shaping and fitting these so they sit flush against the hull planking, with clean edges and a natural timber finish that complements the surrounding woodwork.

Internally, the deck areas continue to evolve. The deck planking, gratings, ladders, and cannon placements are now starting to feel cohesive rather than individual parts added in isolation. I’m particularly happy with how the deck tones contrast against the blue and gold of the upper works, giving that layered, purposeful look you’d expect from a 17th-century Spanish warship.

This kit has certainly been challenging at times—plans that require interpretation, parts that need refinement, and details that benefit from slowing right down—but that’s also what makes it rewarding. Every completed section adds confidence for the next stage.

Next up will be continuing along the remaining side, followed by further refinement of rigging attachment points before moving into the more complex stages ahead.

As always, not chasing perfection—chasing realism, character, and presence.

More progress soon.

 

[Odd Job]

Hi Phillip, I hope you don't mind me hijacking your thread to ask a few questions as I'm seriously considering getting this exact kit even though I would be considered a novice in model shipbuilding.

I realise many would consider me crazy for attempting such a build with such little experience (my previous build was a plank on frame galleon that I built about 15 years ago - can't remember the exact model). However, I am a skilled carpenter with 50 years of experience working with all types of wood on all sorts of projects. I also have at my disposal a fully kitted out workshop with the following machines; Table saw, double compound mitre saw, band saw, router table, planer thicknesser, pillar drill, and linisher. In addition to those I also have a good selection of Milwaukee 18v power tools and many hand tools collected over the years.

Now a little about me. I'm 68 years old. I've recently retired (about 6 months ago) and I lost my nearest and dearest 5 years ago, so now live alone. I've kept myself busy during the warmer summer months making things in my workshop, but during the winter months it gets too cold to go out there so I end up sat indoors most days and I get bored silly, hence me wanting to return to model making, something I could do sat at my dining room table (with the occasional excursion into my workshop when needed). And 2 things I do now have in abundance that I didn't have when I was working - time and patience, I've become a lot more laid back and patient as I've got older.

Now you might be wondering why I have chosen such a huge complicated model to get back into this pastime. 3 main reasons. Firstly I think this ship is a masterpiece of beauty and character. Secondly, I like challenge myself and my abilities. And thirdly SIZE. Now I might be wrong here but this is how I see it. Because this model is such large scale I believe it would actually be easier to work on than a smaller model, especially the more intricate parts, especially as I'm not as nimble fingered as I used to be. The woodworking part of the construction I feel confident about, even fabricating parts if required. The only part of the build that scares me a little is the rigging, but I guess I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

With regard to experience, as mentioned above my only other boat build was 15 or so years ago when the only modelling tools I had were a pin pusher and plank bender (they came in the kit). I have built diorama's from scratch and taught myself new diorama skills by watching Youtube videos. Since retirement I have built bird nesting boxes and pet homes which I've sold to make a little extra income. However the nesting boxes are not the usual run of the mill stuff you would buy in a garden centre but more themed and intricate, a feature for your garden. These were all created from scratch with no plans, just an idea in my head. I've attached a photo below of one I recently made called "The Haunted House".

So I'd be interested in your thoughts. Am I crazy for wanting to attempt such a monster build? Should I reintroduce myself to the hobby with something simpler or shall I do as my heart suggests and dive in at the deep end?

Thank you

Graham.

 

[Etwas_63]

Hi Phillip, I hope you don't mind me hijacking your thread to ask a few questions as I'm seriously considering getting this exact kit even though I would be considered a novice in model shipbuilding.

I realise many would consider me crazy for attempting such a build with such little experience (my previous build was a plank on frame galleon that I built about 15 years ago - can't remember the exact model). However, I am a skilled carpenter with 50 years of experience working with all types of wood on all sorts of projects. I also have at my disposal a fully kitted out workshop with the following machines; Table saw, double compound mitre saw, band saw, router table, planer thicknesser, pillar drill, and linisher. In addition to those I also have a good selection of Milwaukee 18v power tools and many hand tools collected over the years.

Now a little about me. I'm 68 years old. I've recently retired (about 6 months ago) and I lost my nearest and dearest 5 years ago, so now live alone. I've kept myself busy during the warmer summer months making things in my workshop, but during the winter months it gets too cold to go out there so I end up sat indoors most days and I get bored silly, hence me wanting to return to model making, something I could do sat at my dining room table (with the occasional excursion into my workshop when needed). And 2 things I do now have in abundance that I didn't have when I was working - time and patience, I've become a lot more laid back and patient as I've got older.

Now you might be wondering why I have chosen such a huge complicated model to get back into this pastime. 3 main reasons. Firstly I think this ship is a masterpiece of beauty and character. Secondly, I like challenge myself and my abilities. And thirdly SIZE. Now I might be wrong here but this is how I see it. Because this model is such large scale I believe it would actually be easier to work on than a smaller model, especially the more intricate parts, especially as I'm not as nimble fingered as I used to be. The woodworking part of the construction I feel confident about, even fabricating parts if required. The only part of the build that scares me a little is the rigging, but I guess I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

With regard to experience, as mentioned above my only other boat build was 15 or so years ago when the only modelling tools I had were a pin pusher and plank bender (they came in the kit). I have built diorama's from scratch and taught myself new diorama skills by watching Youtube videos. Since retirement I have built bird nesting boxes and pet homes which I've sold to make a little extra income. However the nesting boxes are not the usual run of the mill stuff you would buy in a garden centre but more themed and intricate, a feature for your garden. These were all created from scratch with no plans, just an idea in my head. I've attached a photo below of one I recently made called "The Haunted House".

So I'd be interested in your thoughts. Am I crazy for wanting to attempt such a monster build? Should I reintroduce myself to the hobby with something simpler or shall I do as my heart suggests and dive in at the deep end?

Thank you

Graham.

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View attachment 568293

Take a look at my branch. If you take over the construction, then I have clearly shown there where there are inaccuracies in the set and problem areas at the stage of building a specific frame. I've been building this sailboat for six months now, maybe you can learn something from my experience. He also worked as a carpenter for 20 years.

 

[Phillipsart]

Hi Phillip, I hope you don't mind me hijacking your thread to ask a few questions as I'm seriously considering getting this exact kit even though I would be considered a novice in model shipbuilding.

I realise many would consider me crazy for attempting such a build with such little experience (my previous build was a plank on frame galleon that I built about 15 years ago - can't remember the exact model). However, I am a skilled carpenter with 50 years of experience working with all types of wood on all sorts of projects. I also have at my disposal a fully kitted out workshop with the following machines; Table saw, double compound mitre saw, band saw, router table, planer thicknesser, pillar drill, and linisher. In addition to those I also have a good selection of Milwaukee 18v power tools and many hand tools collected over the years.

Now a little about me. I'm 68 years old. I've recently retired (about 6 months ago) and I lost my nearest and dearest 5 years ago, so now live alone. I've kept myself busy during the warmer summer months making things in my workshop, but during the winter months it gets too cold to go out there so I end up sat indoors most days and I get bored silly, hence me wanting to return to model making, something I could do sat at my dining room table (with the occasional excursion into my workshop when needed). And 2 things I do now have in abundance that I didn't have when I was working - time and patience, I've become a lot more laid back and patient as I've got older.

Now you might be wondering why I have chosen such a huge complicated model to get back into this pastime. 3 main reasons. Firstly I think this ship is a masterpiece of beauty and character. Secondly, I like challenge myself and my abilities. And thirdly SIZE. Now I might be wrong here but this is how I see it. Because this model is such large scale I believe it would actually be easier to work on than a smaller model, especially the more intricate parts, especially as I'm not as nimble fingered as I used to be. The woodworking part of the construction I feel confident about, even fabricating parts if required. The only part of the build that scares me a little is the rigging, but I guess I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

With regard to experience, as mentioned above my only other boat build was 15 or so years ago when the only modelling tools I had were a pin pusher and plank bender (they came in the kit). I have built diorama's from scratch and taught myself new diorama skills by watching Youtube videos. Since retirement I have built bird nesting boxes and pet homes which I've sold to make a little extra income. However the nesting boxes are not the usual run of the mill stuff you would buy in a garden centre but more themed and intricate, a feature for your garden. These were all created from scratch with no plans, just an idea in my head. I've attached a photo below of one I recently made called "The Haunted House".

So I'd be interested in your thoughts. Am I crazy for wanting to attempt such a monster build? Should I reintroduce myself to the hobby with something simpler or shall I do as my heart suggests and dive in at the deep end?

Thank you

Graham.

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Hello Odd Job.

Go for it. I think you will be fine with this build.

Yes. Larger ships are easier to build than the tiny ships. Rigging is also easier than the smaller ships.

I suggest to invest in a pinless scroll saw and a small hobby wood lathe.

I also own a small mini mill.

There are some parts you need to made yourself. But there easy to make. Especially with the right tools.

These YHL kits are the best value kits out.

The instructions are lacking but the plans I think are good.

I have no issues building mine just of the plans.

 

[Phillipsart]

Small progress since last post

 

[Phillipsart]

Hi Phillip, I hope you don't mind me hijacking your thread to ask a few questions as I'm seriously considering getting this exact kit even though I would be considered a novice in model shipbuilding.

I realise many would consider me crazy for attempting such a build with such little experience (my previous build was a plank on frame galleon that I built about 15 years ago - can't remember the exact model). However, I am a skilled carpenter with 50 years of experience working with all types of wood on all sorts of projects. I also have at my disposal a fully kitted out workshop with the following machines; Table saw, double compound mitre saw, band saw, router table, planer thicknesser, pillar drill, and linisher. In addition to those I also have a good selection of Milwaukee 18v power tools and many hand tools collected over the years.

Now a little about me. I'm 68 years old. I've recently retired (about 6 months ago) and I lost my nearest and dearest 5 years ago, so now live alone. I've kept myself busy during the warmer summer months making things in my workshop, but during the winter months it gets too cold to go out there so I end up sat indoors most days and I get bored silly, hence me wanting to return to model making, something I could do sat at my dining room table (with the occasional excursion into my workshop when needed). And 2 things I do now have in abundance that I didn't have when I was working - time and patience, I've become a lot more laid back and patient as I've got older.

Now you might be wondering why I have chosen such a huge complicated model to get back into this pastime. 3 main reasons. Firstly I think this ship is a masterpiece of beauty and character. Secondly, I like challenge myself and my abilities. And thirdly SIZE. Now I might be wrong here but this is how I see it. Because this model is such large scale I believe it would actually be easier to work on than a smaller model, especially the more intricate parts, especially as I'm not as nimble fingered as I used to be. The woodworking part of the construction I feel confident about, even fabricating parts if required. The only part of the build that scares me a little is the rigging, but I guess I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

With regard to experience, as mentioned above my only other boat build was 15 or so years ago when the only modelling tools I had were a pin pusher and plank bender (they came in the kit). I have built diorama's from scratch and taught myself new diorama skills by watching Youtube videos. Since retirement I have built bird nesting boxes and pet homes which I've sold to make a little extra income. However the nesting boxes are not the usual run of the mill stuff you would buy in a garden centre but more themed and intricate, a feature for your garden. These were all created from scratch with no plans, just an idea in my head. I've attached a photo below of one I recently made called "The Haunted House".

So I'd be interested in your thoughts. Am I crazy for wanting to attempt such a monster build? Should I reintroduce myself to the hobby with something simpler or shall I do as my heart suggests and dive in at the deep end?

Thank you

Graham.

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View attachment 568293

As mentions by Etwas 63 post there are some changes need to be made of the plans. But there obvious.

And the thing is. It’s an opportunity to make the ship as you please. Mines not built exact as shown on the plan. And you know what that’s ok.

After all contrarily to what some think. This ship did not exist.

It’s called SAN Felipe dating 1690. There are no Spanish was ships called SAN Felipe dating 1690.

There is a Felipe dating 1732.

This ship is an interpretation of what the Spanish battle ships looked like at 1690.

 

[Phillipsart]

By the way I don’t mind my thread being hijacked as you say. To me it’s not hi jacking. This is why I post here. To help others out if I can. Just be careful doing this with some of the others.

I once showed an image of my build on a different thread( not mine) and got flamed big time.

I will never do it again. Myself. It was an unpleasant experience

 

[Odd Job]

By the way I don’t mind my thread being hijacked as you say. To me it’s not hi jacking. This is why I post here. To help others out if I can. Just be careful doing this with some of the others.

I once showed an image of my build on a different thread( not mine) and got flamed big time.

I will never do it again. Myself. It was an unpleasant experience

Hi and thanks for your reply. I've already discovered that some members can be a little condescending and presumptuous with their replies to my other thread on this model here. In fact they've lowered my confidence a little and I'm now thinking about starting with a less intricate model before leaping into the unknown with the San Felipe. It seems that because I have yet to learn the language of nauticalese this will somehow affect my ability to construct this model.

Just a couple of questions. Firstly this yuanqing model doesn't appear to have any sails looking at the pictures here. And secondly, something that must have a very simple explanation but nevertheless has been puzzling me. How does one fit the canons into the lower decks?

Thank you my friend.

Graham

 

[Phillipsart]

Hi and thanks for your reply. I've already discovered that some members can be a little condescending and presumptuous with their replies to my other thread on this model here. In fact they've lowered my confidence a little and I'm now thinking about starting with a less intricate model before leaping into the unknown with the San Felipe. It seems that because I have yet to learn the language of nauticalese this will somehow affect my ability to construct this model.

Just a couple of questions. Firstly this yuanqing model doesn't appear to have any sails looking at the pictures here. And secondly, something that must have a very simple explanation but nevertheless has been puzzling me. How does one fit the canons into the lower decks?

Thank you my friend.

Graham

The cannon in the lower decks are press fitted into a block of timber drilled for the cannons. The cannon is shaped as shown.

 

[Phillipsart]

Hi and thanks for your reply. I've already discovered that some members can be a little condescending and presumptuous with their replies to my other thread on this model here. In fact they've lowered my confidence a little and I'm now thinking about starting with a less intricate model before leaping into the unknown with the San Felipe. It seems that because I have yet to learn the language of nauticalese this will somehow affect my ability to construct this model.

Just a couple of questions. Firstly this yuanqing model doesn't appear to have any sails looking at the pictures here. And secondly, something that must have a very simple explanation but nevertheless has been puzzling me. How does one fit the canons into the lower decks?

Thank you my friend.

Graham

No. Sails are not included. Most kits do not include sails.

Sails can be purchased as an addition to your build.

You can purchase the sails direct from YHL

I had a quick look at your links. Read a few lines on some of your comments and stopped reading.

Don’t listen to those. Trust your ability. Go for it.

The YHL is a good ship to learn on.

Just take your time. Study the plans. Watch YouTube videos and above all the biggest skill that needs to be learnt is patience and determination to complete the build.

My first wooden model ship I built. Is the Mantua 1:78 scale HMS Victory. Regarded as the most difficult kit to build.

 

[Phillipsart]

SAN FELIPE – BOW WORK UPDATE (1:50 SCALE)

Started work on the bow… and wow, what a difference this stage has made to the entire presence of the ship.

The bow is one of those areas that instantly defines the character of a 17th-century warship, and on the San Felipe it is nothing short of spectacular. Adding the head rails, trail boards, and the first of the ornate gilded decorations has completely transformed the model from “under construction” to something that now looks powerful, purposeful, and unmistakably Spanish.

The head rails were carefully shaped and aligned to follow the complex curves of the hull. At this scale, getting symmetry and flow right is critical — any misalignment would instantly stand out. Once in place, they beautifully frame the bow and visually tie the upper works into the hull below.

The gold ornamentation has really brought everything to life. I’ve continued using a layered gold finish rather than a single flat colour — a darker gold base followed by lighter highlights. This gives depth and texture, allowing the carvings to catch the light differently from every angle. It avoids that toy-like look and instead gives the impression of aged, hand-carved gilded work, which is exactly what I’m aiming for.

What I really love at this stage is how the contrast is working:

• The warm natural timber of the hull planking
• The deep blue of the upper works
• The rich gold detailing tying it all together

It’s starting to feel very balanced visually, and the bow now has that unmistakable “commanding” look you expect from a ship of this era.

There’s still plenty to do — more detailing, refinement, and eventually integrating this area seamlessly into the rest of the rigging and upper structures — but this step has been a huge milestone. The ship finally has a face, and it’s incredibly satisfying to see it take shape.

Slow progress, careful work, and enjoying every step of the build. This is where the San Felipe really starts to shine.

 

[Odd Job]

No. Sails are not included. Most kits do not include sails.

Sails can be purchased as an addition to your build.

You can purchase the sails direct from YHL

I had a quick look at your links. Read a few lines on some of your comments and stopped reading.

Don’t listen to those. Trust your ability. Go for it.

The YHL is a good ship to learn on.

Just take your time. Study the plans. Watch YouTube videos and above all the biggest skill that needs to be learnt is patience and determination to complete the build.

My first wooden model ship I built. Is the Mantua 1:78 scale HMS Victory. Regarded as the most difficult kit to build.

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[Odd Job]

Wow! I'm impressed. And thanks for your help. I've decided (or been press ganged ) into starting with a simpler model. So I'll go with that and hopefully that will then give me the confidence to tackle the San Felipe.

Thank you Phillip for your input. I look forward to seeing your build completed.

 

[Phillipsart]

More progress today on the 1:50 scale San Felipe – continuing work on the stern.

Today’s session was all about refining and bringing together the stern structure, and it’s really starting to come alive now. This area of the ship is one of the most visually dominant features, so I’ve been taking my time to ensure everything lines up cleanly and looks balanced from every angle.

I continued working through the layered stern galleries, focusing on the fit and finish of the balcony decks and railings. Getting these tiers to sit correctly is critical, as even the smallest deviation becomes very obvious once the decorative work is in place. A fair bit of dry-fitting, adjusting, and trimming was needed, but the end result was worth the effort.

The decorative gold elements are now really tying the stern together. The contrast between the deep blue panels, the warm timber tones, and the gold ornamentation gives the ship that unmistakable Spanish presence. I’m particularly happy with how the relief details sit against the blue background — they stand out without looking overpowering, which was exactly the look I was aiming for.

The stern name plaque has now been fitted, and it adds a strong focal point to the rear of the ship. Once this went on, the whole stern suddenly felt “complete,” even though there’s still plenty more detail to come. It’s one of those moments where the model starts to feel like a real ship rather than a collection of parts.

I’ve also been checking symmetry constantly, viewing the stern from multiple angles to ensure the galleries, railings, and decorations flow evenly from port to starboard. This stage really rewards patience — rushing here would undo weeks of earlier work.

Overall, a very satisfying session. The stern is now at a stage where it truly reflects the character and scale of the San Felipe. Next steps will be continuing to refine details, clean up edges, and prepare for the next phase of the build.

Slow progress, but solid progress — and that’s exactly how I like it on a ship like this.

 

[Phillipsart]

More progress today on the 1:50 scale San Felipe – starboard side nearly complete

Another productive session at the bench today, and as shown in the photos the starboard side is now almost complete. The ship is really starting to take on the presence and character of a working 17th-century Spanish warship rather than a showroom-perfect model.

A deliberate choice I’ve made throughout this build is not to chase absolute perfection in every part. Many models are built to look flawless, laser-straight, and factory-new — and there’s nothing wrong with that approach. But for this build, that wasn’t the goal.

These were working ships. They were built by hand, repaired at sea, modified over time, and constantly under stress from weather, battle, and heavy use. Timber warped, fittings were replaced, rails were repaired, and not everything lined up perfectly — especially after years of service.

Because of that, I’ve intentionally allowed:

• Slight variation in timber thickness and colour

• Minor irregularities in hand-made fittings

• Subtle inconsistencies in alignment where it makes sense visually

Many of the parts on this model were made by hand rather than corrected to absolute symmetry, and in some cases I’ve resisted the urge to “fix” things that look too tidy. I believe this gives the ship far more realism and character, especially when viewed close up.

The upper deck structures, pin rails, and gratings are now well established. These areas took time to get right structurally, but I didn’t aim to make them sterile or overly refined. The slight hand-built nature of these components helps sell the scale and age of the vessel.

On the starboard gun deck, the cannon placements, gunports, port lids, and tackle are now largely complete. The combination of warm timber, red carriages, and black barrels gives a strong, purposeful look. Small variations between gun positions are intentional — these ships were not assembled on production lines.

The blue band and gold ornamentation continue to be a major focal point. I’m very happy with how the gold details sit against the blue without overpowering the timber. The ornamentation has been treated as aged and worked rather than freshly cast and polished, which again suits the overall look I’m aiming for.

Work has also continued on the railings and balcony structures, where I’ve focused more on flow and proportion than razor-sharp uniformity. These areas often saw repairs and replacements on real ships, and a little visual imperfection helps tell that story.

At this point, the starboard side is essentially complete aside from final touch-ups. Structurally and visually, it’s now where I want it to be.

Next steps will be:

• Finalising small details on the starboard side

• Bringing the port side up to the same level of completion

• Continuing deck detailing before moving further forward

I’m very happy with the direction this build is taking. It may not be “perfect” in the modern modelling sense — but to me, it looks real, and that’s always been the goal.