rcmdrvr

The next step in the process is the planking of the bottom of the hull in a "herring bone" pattern.

After reading many of the build logs, I have decided to make my second project, and first build log, the Willie Bennett by Model Shipways.  My first build was a solid hull so the built up hull of the Willie looked like a logical next step.

I did not photograph the kit box and it contents.  Sorry about that but there are many such photographs on this website.  I will state that the kit contents are very nice and the lazer die cut parts are well done.

The Willie build begins by building a simple frame over "moulds".  The moulds were laser cut and matched the plans perfectly.  Generally, the beginning assembly is relatively easy.  I did find, however, that when I added my first stringer that it caused the structure to twist.  I tried removing and regluing the stringer but the structure continue to twist.  I decided to continue and add the sides hoping if I weighted the structure down when I added the sides it would dry and remove the twist.  It worked.

Here are some pictures:  1)  This is the basic structure. You can see the pattern I made for the sides in the background.   2)  Fitting my pattern for the sides.  I cut the pattern from construction paper.  3)  Gluing the sides in place while weighting the structure. I used sandbags made from sand filled baggies.  I learned this trick in my model airplane building days  4)  The basic structure is complete.

You can review the instructions to the Willie Bennett on the Model Shipways website.  I just started mine last night (Build log to come).

Wow.  Somehow sawing in half seem like an "extreme" way to establish the centerline.  My bandsaw blade tends to wander, that would be a problem.

I am also a newbie.  I also have purchased the Sultana and have been reading the practicum.  I went to Amazon and noticed you can purchase a center ruler to assist in marking the centerline of the upper deck.  As for the bottom, I think I would make a platform with two right angle rulers to press up against each side and then use the center ruler to measure between the right angle uprights (If that make sense).

I want to add a question.  The practicum calls for quite a bit of sculpting the solid hull with knifes, files and sandpaper.  How do you guys hold a hull while doing this.  A vise?  What kind of protection do you use to keep from damaging the hull.  I have a good size workbench vise and have heard you can buy some leather covers for the sides of the vice.

Any help would be appreciated.