The twelve  rules of successful model ship building

Introduction

Model ships have always had a special fascination for me. I was not sure I would be able to build one. Well, you can! Here’s how I did it. I call it the Twelve (12) Rules of Successful Model Ship Building.

Over the past twenty or so years I have been involved in the hobby of building model ships. Ship modeling can be an exceptional hobby since it involves using all your skills such as reading, research, hand-eye coordination, learning new techniques. The hobby will also provide a sense of accomplishment, social opportunities, and relaxation.

My fellow shipmates and I have come up with Th e Rules of Successful Model Ship Building. So, let me share with you some of our insights.

Rule No. 1: Choose a model ship that is special to you.

The model should be aesthetically pleasing to you. When completed, your model will be displayed in your home. You should enjoy looking at it and be proud of your accomplishments.

The model must fit your level of ship modeling skills and abilities. If it is too difficult to build, you will not enjoy the voyage.

Finally, and also very important, the model must fit  your budget.

Rule No. 2: Create a work station.

A work bench/space with good lighting is important. 

It should be a place where you can keep your building board, so that it will not be disturbed. Make sure you have a comfortable chair or stool to sit on and a cabinet or shelves to keep handy your hobby tools, glues, paints, etcetera.

Rule No. 3: Conduct an inventory of your kit.

If you are building a kit, you should conduct a thorough inventory of the kit’s instructions, plans, building materials, parts, and fittings. If you find some things missing, contact the source for replacement. The kit’s instructions generally give you the place to contact for missing items.

Rule No.4: Read the instructions and study the plans.

This rule is one that many ship modelers sadly overlook. When you go on a trip or build a ship model, it is important to know where you are going.

Curb your impatience to rush into building a model. Read the instructions from cover to cover before you begin. Study the plans and diagrams to make sure you understand them before the journey.

One final comment here. Do not get caught up in the minutia of the plans. Read over the plans and understand this building process will be broken down into steps that you will do one at a time. Do not let the big picture scare you.

You want to have map of where you’re going. You do not need to learn every left  or right turn.

Rule No. 5: Focus on individual tasks.

Th is rule is probably one the most important rules of successful model ship building. You have probably heard the expressions: Ship modeling is a hobby not arace and/or Enjoy the journey not the destination.

You should focus on each individual task found in the instructions. If the task is to glue a 6-inch plank to bulk heads B-7 and B-6, glue it with care, making sure that it fi ts perfectly. When this task is completed and you are satisfi ed with the result, let the glue dry and move on to the next task. Again, ship modeling is a hobby not a race! Enjoy each step of the journey. 

No. 6: Identify and fi x mistakes before moving forward.

Yes, we all make mistakes and without a doubt you will fi nd yourself at some point missing a step or gluing something in an incorrect place. If and when you do make a mistake, take the time to repair or fi x it before moving on to the next step.

Oh yes, there is always a Plan B out there. Remember, you are the captain of the ship, so build it the way you want it built.

Rule No. 7: Beware of ship modeling fatigue.

When friends stop over and I show them some of my completed models, one of the fi rst things out of their mouths is “I don’t have the patience to build that.”

Yes, it takes patience to build model boats. You make mistakes, get frustrated, discouraged, etcetera. When these emotions take over your model ship building, it is time to step away and move on to another interest. When time passes, you can get back to the world’s greatest hobby.

Rule No. 8: Seek help as needed.

There is a plethora of books on ship modeling skills and techniques. They can be purchased online from hobby web sites, from hobby stores, or checked out at your local library. Th ere are also many YouTube videos posted by experienced model ship builders. Model Ship World (www.modelshipworldforum.com) is another great resource, so is getting advice from modeling friends or a ship modeling club or group.

Rule No. 9: Participate in a ship modeling organization.

If you are fortunate to live where there is a ship modeling club or group, you should take advantage of the opportunity. Th ere you will be able to share your skills and knowledge and learn from other ship modelers along with partaking in leadership and social opportunities.

Rule No. 10: Display your completed model.

Find an appropriate location in your home for the model. You can display it in a display case or just on a stand. However, I would recommend putting an engraved plaque on the base that includes the ship’s name, your name, and date completed.

Rule No. 11: Choose your next model ship.

Now that that your ship modeling skills have improved, look back to Rule No. 1. Apply the same three criteria to your next model as you did to your previous model: aesthetically pleasing, matching your skill level, and fitting within your budget.

Rule No. 12: Build it your way.

There are no formal rules of ship modeling. Most modelers learn from trial and error and from the advice of experienced model ship builders. Just do what works for you! You are the captain of the ship!

Hopefully, I have provided some insight into model ship building. I would like to sincerely thank my editors and proofreaders, James Siedel and Larry Sperling of the Naples Ship Modelers & Nautical Guild. Their ideas, suggestions, and support are greatly appreciated. And, finally, I would like to thank my wife Sandy who proofed and corrected my final draft . I hope you enjoy the joy of ship modeling as much as I do.