Simple carving techniques for first-timers using a rotary tool and burrs

[Hubac's Historian]

Hello Joachim,

 

The Realle is certainly an interesting subject, and as you say, quite a challenging one from the carving perspective.  My presumption, here, is that you are building a model from scratch, and not the Heller or any other kit.

 

My first piece of advice would be to obtain or draw good plans that show a clear layout of the ornamental work, such that the carving is in scale, and proportionally consistent with the carving style and norms of 17th C. France.  If the layout isn’t good, to begin with, the finished carvings will reflect that.

 

Fortunately, original gilded and carved works from a French Realle  still exist at the Musee de la Marine in Paris, I believe, although the following images are tagged Rochefort.  This is as good a primary source as one could hope for in attempting to capture the exuberance and the artistry of the French Baroque era:

 

That would be my starting point suggestion for such an involved project as this.  I certainly look forward to your build log and will happily follow along, once youhave begun.

Edited February 24, 2019 by Hubac's Historian

[mtaylor]

Joachim,

 

A great reference is the one listed above:   http://carvingbook.weebly.com/english-pdf-version.html

[schiffebastler]

Hello, 

thank you all very much.

@mtaylor

The carving book reference is very interesting. It is the first book which handles such carvings as we need for our models. Very good! Such book references is what I hoped for.

@Hubac's Historian

Many thanks for these pictures of the carvings. Your assumption is correct, I want to build the Reale from scratch in 1:36. First I want to create a new plan, because the only existing plan from the 60s of Paris is not suitable in some places. The Heller and Corel plans are also based on this plan. I have already begun with the first development of the frames.

Years ago I got the model kit from Corel that I originally wanted to build before I came to forums and learned more. I know it will be difficult and time-consuming, but that's what makes it interesting.

Since the Corel model is otherwise a quite good model kit, I have introduced it in the corresponding section.

 

I already have some pictures of the Parisian carvings, but it is still difficult enough. That's why your pictures are very good. The other question for me is whether there are certain procedures that make it easier, especially for the carvings of such models.

 

Regards, Joachim

Edited February 24, 2019 by schiffebastler

[GrandpaPhil]

I learned to carve with the tutorial in this section.

 

I downloaded the scale carving patterns in this tutorial and glued them down to 1/16th inch basswood and started cutting.

 

 I primarily carve with an X-Acto knife.

 

 

This carving intro is very helpful.  I highly recommend it.

 

My log is here:

 

[schiffebastler]

It is always interesting and helpfull to see how collegues started with carving.

Joachim

[Chuck]

Actual boxwood carving blanks are available here.  You will see a much noticeable difference when using a harder wood like box.  

 

https://www.syrenshipmodelcompany.com/royal-barge-kit.php#!/Extra-Boxwood-Carving-Blanks-One-full-set-of-the-seven-decorations-needed/p/98399892/category=25581355

[Boxbuilds]

It's impressive to see the precision of the thin window frames