How to Build Model Ships

Model ships often require a delicate hand to build as parts can be very tiny. Plastic model ships come with airplanes or anti-aircraft guns, while wooden ships come with string, oars, rigging and more. Some basic model ships are easy to build, but model ships tend to be much more challenging to build than other types of models. However, whether you're a beginning builder or a seasoned expert, you can learn how to build model ships.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Model ship
• Construction materials and tools (varies by model)

Build Model Ships

1. Read the model ship instructions thoroughly prior to actually beginning to build. Doing so will help you know when certain pieces should be prepped.

2. Lay out parts as they are necessary. This will keep your work area clean and uncluttered. This will also make it easy to find the pieces you are looking for when you need them.

3. Gently sand parts prior to gluing them together. This will give the glue a better surface on which to stick. Be careful not to sand too much, or you run the risk of causing your parts to not fit properly.

4. Follow the directions carefully, and assemble the parts of your model ship in the order suggested in the instructions. You will sometimes be jumping back and forth between sections, but this is often done to make it easier to connect larger sections at one time.

5. Be sure to have the right glues for the job. Plastic glues do not work well on wooden models, while wood glues are not suited for adhering to plastics. Also, some glues can potentially destroy the construction materials, so only use adhesives or paints made for building models.

6. Knot the rigging string carefully when you need to do so. It can be tricky to untie the rigging once you've begun to add on the final components.

7. Keep the base separate from the ship itself. This will allow you to pick up the ship and see the detailing on the keel without being thwarted by the base.

Tips & Warnings

• Place any lacquers or finishes on your ship prior to tying on the rigging, which is the string or fabric used to simulate ropes or sails. Spraying lacquer on these elements will ruin the authenticity of the pieces by making them shiny.
• Some model ships have tiny parts which any young child could choke on. It's important to supervise younger children who may be playing near you as you build your model, and you should follow the manufacturer's age guidelines when choosing a model for your child to build.
• Treat the wooden pieces for classic "Age of Sail" ships with great care. They are often as small as matchsticks and can break easily. The same can be said for smaller scale plastic models.

Resources

• Model-ships.com for kits