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About Model Ship Building
The model ship building hobby can be an educational and very rewarding pastime. It allows for various levels of skill and investment. Most of the models in our club are radio control but by no means are static models any less appreciated. Often a static model will be more realistic in detail than an operational model. Compromises are usually necessary to accommodate the propulsion and control systems. At this time it is possible to build any kind of vessel in RC. We have seen super aircraft carriers to War of 1812 sloops on the water. Also you can allow your imagination and creativity run and make your own designs. All you need do is start. This page will try and guide you.
Getting Started in Model Boating
Getting started in model ship building is easier than ever. There is equipment and materials available to accomplish just about anything you can think to do. The hardest part is getting past these first few questions.
Can I do this? If you can follow a recipe or basic instructions you can build any entry level kit boat. In static models there is a wide variety of plastic and wood kits. As your skills improve you can acquire more challenging kits or begin scratch building models from plans or your own imagination. If you don't feel ready to build a RC boat, but want to get involved, there are several good ready to run boats available.
What do I want to build? What catches your eye. Working boats such as tugboats and freighters, or pleasure craft such as yachts and sailboats. Maybe your interests lie in United States Coast Guard cutters or Naval Vessels from all nationalities and eras. Any vessel of your individual interest is a good place to begin.
Static or radio controlled boat? This is an important one. The decision to build static or radio control should be well thought out. If you have access to water, a lake or pond, and you like mechanical things, then R/C is the way to go. If operation is not as important as detail then static is for you. Sometimes detail is sacrificed for operation, it is completely up to the builder. Almost anything is possible.
Where do I start? Research is the key to success. When you have a good idea of what you want and how to get it, the battle is half over. Jump in and enjoy yourself. When you finished that first project don't hide it in the attic. Show it to other modelers and get their opinions. Don't be afraid of a honest critique of your work. Most modelers will remember when they were in your shoes and will give you the benefit of their experience. Get out, get started and have fun.
Good Starting Points:
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Pick up and read some of the hobby publications available. They don't necessarily have to be about boats. Fine Scale Modeler is a well rounded magazine for learning techniques.
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Talk to your local hobby dealer. See what is available in kits, tools and supplies.
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Find other modelers in your area. Having someone to ask questions or bounce ideas off of is always helpful. You will make new friends too.
A little about scale
"Scale" is another of those modeling terms that has more than one meaning. Predominantly in the model ship building hobby models are made of actual full sized ships. A scale model in those terms is a scaled down version of the full sized vessel. It has the right proportions, correct details, and proper paint scheme. It just LOOKS real.
Scale also refers to the physical size of the model in relation to the full scale object. Scale can be indicated by a fraction 1/12th, 1/24th, 1/32nd, etc. 1/12th scale means the full sized object is 12 times larger than the model. 1/12th is perhaps the easiest scale in that 1 inch is equal to 1 foot. For every inch of model there is a corresponding foot of full sized object.