Building boards

[Sgthod]

Being fairly new to ship building I was wondering what building boards are used by our more experienced members.  I saw numerous posts on other sites about the "Fair a Frame" and how terrible it is.  Then I see on this site that someone recommends it.  I'm easily confused so if someone can enlighten me as to the best one, kind , or type to use I would appreciate it.  Thanks  

[cwboland]

Hi Sgt.

 

Check out the thread here on building boards. Quite a few people are recommending looking at different build logs to get an idea of how others are doing it. There is also at least one discussion about other options, just can't seem to find the link right now.  Good luck in your efforts and welcome to MSW.

[GuntherMT]

Being fairly new to ship building I was wondering what building boards are used by our more experienced members.  I saw numerous posts on other sites about the "Fair a Frame" and how terrible it is.  Then I see on this site that someone recommends it.  I'm easily confused so if someone can enlighten me as to the best one, kind , or type to use I would appreciate it.  Thanks  

 

I've actually never seen anything good posted about the 'Fair a Frame' by anyone who actually got it, so I must have missed the recommendation here!

 

A basic building board is just a flat board (MDF shelf is what I used) and a couple of strips of wood to hold the keel.

[wq3296]

I completely agree with Gun... Keep it simple.

 

wq3296

[mtaylor]

Sgthod,

 

Have a look here:  http://modelshipworldforum.com/ship-model-materials-and-tools.php for "Tools not to bother with".  Fair a Frame is mentioned.  However, sometimes (me included) by tools that aren't recommended by anyone just because...     I had the Billings version and while not perfect, it worked for me until I discovered better ways. 

[CaptainSteve]

Once planking has been done, then an old sofa cushion also works as a soft bed. Just gouge out an appropriate sized hull-shaped section with your hobby knife, and it's good to go.  

[Dan Vadas]

Here's a LINK to the building board I made for HMS Vulture. The end supports can be made from ply if you can't work with acrylic. They are removable for when you need to work on either end of the hull - the other one will stop it from tipping, and there are also two screws that come up from under the board into the keel. These have nuts set into the keel, and are used for the permanent mounting pedestals later on.

 

Note there are two longitudinual timbers underneath the flat board, set in about 25mm from the edge - they not only stop the MDF from bowing, but make the whole thing easier to lift as you can get your fingers under it.

 

 Danny

[AntonyUK]

Hello.

And welcome to MSW.

I have never used a commercial building Jig or board.

Always used a flat piece of MDF or other sheet timber I have lieing around.

Plan the size and make supports for the bow timbers and stern timbers.

Keep EVERY THING Square.. Unless your ship has a built in twist.LOL.

If you are using the board in the house I would felt the bottom to stop scratching the boss's tables.

Some ships do not have a flat keel.. Take this into consideration when building the board or clamp.

 

Hint.. Always replace the boat back into the board .. It stops unessery twist developing.

 

Regards Antony.

[Sgthod]

Thanks everyone for the advice and tips.  I now feel comfortable making my own building board.  At least if I mess it up I have no one to blame but myself. lol