hmcarlin

I've been following for months, and am thrilled to see progress continuing.  As soon as there's a sign-up list for purchasing this kit, I'm THERE!

Have been following quietly, but have to jump in and say this looks like an awesome project!  Looking forward to getting started on it!

Any further progress on this boat?  Mine is on order, and love picking up tips from a master!

Johnny, if you look further down on the page I linked, there is an option for "natural" which is a light tan and should serve well for running rigging!

Any update on the availability of the full model, including section 5?

A source for linen thread is:

https://burnleyandtrowbridge.com/collections/threads/products/60-2-linen-thread?variant=31835716354135

I've purchased a few of their smaller spools and it's good quality!

Stern framing/planking is a bevy of tiny parts.  I laid the planking pieces out on double-sided tape and then glued the framing parts to that.  Then that whole assembly is glued to the sternpost.

Starting my first build log: the 1:48 Longboat by CAFModel, designed to go along with their French frigate LaRenommee.  I've been wanting to get going on a POF model for some time, but am not ready to go scratch -- neither in terms of skills nor in terms of tools.  I'm hoping that this small kit will allow me to build my skills to the point that I might attempt a larger POF project.  As a brief aside, there do not seem to be many options for POF kits from approved producers; I've found CAF to be basically it, except for Chuck's exceptional models which are not currently available.  Perhaps Chris Watton at Vanguard will have the Speedwell available by the time I'm ready to move on!

James H has a wonderful kit review up for this model (https://modelshipworld.com/topic/36837-148-longboat-cafmodel/), so I won't spend time repeating what he already has done.  I WILL say, though, that Tom at CAF is very responsive to questions and got my kit to me from China in under10 days -- and without my paying any TrumpTariffs!

The box is compact and carefully packed:

We begin by building the framing jig from well-fitting plywood parts:

Next is the assembly of the keel to the stem, along with the construction of the hawser roller at the peak of the stem.

James, you mention that you intend to review the La Renommee kit; any progress on that project?  It's one that I've been considering, and would love to see your take on it!

I'd do the same with all of those lines indicating that they end on the bitts.

Actually, Chuck's is in 1:24 scale (1/2") and is no longer available

Not to be argumentative, but a POF model has no more internal support than these pictures show; yet, when done carefully with light pressure on the sanding sticks, fairing can (and is) done successfully -- as is internal fairing!

And WHY is it unavoidable?  Why can't you fair the frames before assembling the interior fittings??

Choices like that are what makes this YOUR model.

On soldering, less is more!  Heat the joint, touch with rosin-core solder until the wires change color to silver and maintain heat until it stops smoking.  Be careful not to move the joint until it's cool and all will be well.

Beautiful work on all of those fiddly bits at the head.  Your attention to detail is inspiring.

Try searching "clear plastic sheet" on Amazon; lots of choices there!

Thanks for sharing your journey on this build!  Nice to follow along vicariously, as I'm unlikely to find room for a project of this size.

This is an awi-inspiring product.  Kudos to AL for the investment they have made and their commitment to our hobby by putting it into production!  Too many companies with drool-inducing kits on their websites that are constantly out of stock.

Love seeing a POF model come together.  Encourages me to take the plunge on my own!

Excellent craftsmanship!

The Titebond family are classic -- should not turn brown like that.  BUT: used on 4 models -- how old is it?  I'd try a fresh container.

Good luck!

Any chance (with possible time frame) for others of us to get started on this beautiful project?  I'd love the opportunity to start working on chapter one while the rest of the prototype is getting finished!  Thanks.