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Hi Everyone, Okay, I am back from my getaway and ready to move forward on my build. I have been following the instruction booklet and referencing schooner's log. I started shaping the hull. I'll have to admit I have been freaking out about this part, as I barely can draw a straight line with a ruler on paper, let alone a straight line on a curved surface. But, I'm happy to say the bow went pretty easily. I used a couple claps to hold the boat so I could use the template and draw my "don't sand any further line. For the following image I taped the template to the bow to show my result. The sanding went way faster than I imagined it would. The top of the stem fell away from the tape while taking the picture. The template fits a bit tighter at the top, but admittedly I still have a tiny gap, which I hope to take care of during my final shaping of the stem and adding the keel. Next, I needed to mark the center line on the stem, deck, bottom and transom. I found this to be a bit tricky. I took several measurements, used the deck piece as a template and finally think I got it as close as I could. On the bottom I used the "string trick" from CTYankee's build log; thanks James. That seemed to work very well and I'm happy with the results. My next step was to mark the location of the three template stations for shaping the hull at the bow. Now, it's sanding time again!

As I am building the same kit as my first build, I a green with your response to Nic. I feel the same way. Great job on the hull! I’m getting ready to start shaping my hull and being a bit hesitant, as I don’t want to screw it up. Any tips? Thanks! Paul

Hi Per, I just went through your log. Amazing work! I commend your tenacity and look forward to following along.

Hi James, I have only painted with enamel back in my youth on plastic models. I'm thinking that I will need much better brushes than the ones that came with the kit. The kit brushes don't seem to hold much paint. Schooner has a build log of the Red Baron (if you haven't seen it yet), he addresses the painting a bit. Thanks for the good wishes. Talk soon. Paul

So, I haven't disappeared. I've been busy readying my "real" boat for a ten day cruise up the coast of Maine with my wife. It's our annual haj! We leave on Friday. We can't wait, the beauty of Maine's coast is hard to beat! So, continuing my build, I have stuck with the instructions and sanded, primed and/or gloss coated the designated parts before removing them from the carrier sheet. I had to locate my old breathing filter, as the fine sand dust really had my lungs rebelling! Although, I am grateful that the kit contained paint brushes I am definitely investing in better brushes going forward. The next step will be shaping the hull.

Hi CT, I just started the same build for my first build. Hopefully we can help each other along the way.. paul

Hi Richard, I just started the Red Baron as my first build from Bluejacket. I’ll be watching your build. paul

Paul, it looks great! Years ago and I mean years ago the Krabbenkutter was the first wooden boat Model I attempted. I was naive! When I opened the box I freaked out because of all the planking. Needless to say I never completed the model. I have begun again, but this time with a beginner level kit. Still love that krabbenkuter.

Welcome Neil, the dining room table is my only workshop. I just started my first build and I’m finding that the sanding gets messy. Paul

Michael - thanks for following along. Yes, lobster boats do have great looks. Living on the coast of maine I see them everywhere. Ryland - one of the reasons I chose this kit was because of the detailed instructions and tools. Also, Bluejacket has a dedicated 800 number for questions concerning their kits.

This is my first build! I've always been enamored with fishing boats, tugboats and merchant ships. I chose this particular kit, as it comes complete with all the materials required to complete the model, including tools and paint. It is also designated as an entry-level model. There is a completed build log of this kit by schooner. As He covered the contents of the kit thoroughly (complete with photos), I will abstain from repeating that here. (I hope that is within the rules, if not, let me know and I will edit this post). I've been looking over the plans, reading the instruction manual and reading schooner's build log. Although a bit nervous, I believe I am ready to begin. All comments and suggestions are most welcome. Paul

Hi Per, yes of course, my name is Paul

I am new here and waiting for my first kit to arrive so I can begin. Following this Build thread Is intimidating to say the least, but gives something to aspire to. Absolutely stunning craftsmanship! Just beautiful!

Gary, I’m new here and I’m slowly working my way around the site. I tend to be draw to work boats, fishing boats and commercial ships. This model is amazing! Great job!

Edward, Patric, Paul and Michael, Thanks for your welcomes. I’ll have to admit, after reading through some build logs, (most of boats way beyond my abilities), it’s a bit intimidating.

Thanks everyone for your welcomes and suggestions. I will start a log when I receive my kit. Getting excited! Mark, I read schooner’s log And will refer to it often, I’m sure.

Hi All, I’m just starting out and jumped in by ordering an entry level kit from Bluejacket. I ordered the Red Baron, a lobster boat and I’m waiting for it to arrive. I love fishing boats and work boats. I don’t know anything about building models. The only experience that I a have is building Plastic car and airplane Models as a kid, many, many years ago. I’m looking forward to learning here and hopefully being able to contribute, as well. Cheers! Paul