Hello from Southern California!

[andreank]

Hi Everyone!

 

I joined this forum a few years ago after I had purchased my first kits. I was in college at the time and did not realize the commitment these ships take. Without a reliable work space, I just never really got going. Now that I am well into the real world, I am thinking about opening those models back up. My grandfather built a few model ships and I think it would be a great way to connect with him as he is getting quite old. 

 

I know there are SO many incredible logs on here to reference. Before I start, I want to do a lot of research and ask a lot of questions. I am as GREEN as they come.

 

I have both the Model Shipways Sultana and Phantom. Does anybody have a recommendation of which one to start with? Ive seen great logs for both but would love input! 

 

-Andrea

[mtaylor]

Welcome to MSW, Andrea.   Once you decide which kit, do by all means open a build log.  It's the best way to get help and also to make friends.

 

As for which kit?  Let me ask this... which one interests you more?  There's an article in the Database which might help:  http://modelshipworldforum.com/resources/plans_and_research/KitSelection.pdf.   I'm not one to talk as my first "purchased but not built kit" was the Billing Vasa.   Oops...  hasty retreat to a very basic model then a step up to a AI brig)....  Been a fun adventure.   Keep it fun and use MSW as a resource.

 

[Jim Lad]

Hello Andrea, and a warm welcome back to MSW!

 

John

[ccoyle]

Welcome,Andrea!

 

As you are probably aware, very good practicums exist for both of those models, so you can't go wrong in choosing whichever one has the most visceral appeal for you and going for it.

 

Cheers!

[andreank]

Thank you for all the welcomes! I think I am going to go with the Phantom. There is another new member planning to start on the Phantom and I think it will be fun to go on the adventure together. 

 

Is there anything you all wish you had known before you started? 

[Chuck Seiler]

Andrea,

 

    From where in SoCal do you hail?  If you are interested in getting involved with a club, there are a couple available.  One in San Diego and one in the L.A. area.

 

    Both PHANTOM and SULTANA are great starter kits.  I prefer SULTANA because I am more into the colonial era but PHANTOM provides the same benefits and challenges.

[pontiachedmark]

Gidday and welcome from the land Downunder Andrea.

Great advice from Chuck, if practical for you to have a look at a club.

You will find plenty of support and encouragement here.

Remember that every question, within reason, is valid. Although at times some questions are infuriating. Ask my grandchildren what I mean after 300 times of why, why, why.

All the best with your Phantom.

Mark

[andreank]

Hi Chuck! I am in the LA area. A club would be awesome! Where can I find more information?

 

My ultimate goal is to build the blue nose but hopefully I catch the model bug once I get going. I'll be ecstatic to finish one and even more so if I can finish both Sultana and Phantom. 

 

-Andrea

[ccoyle]

Ship Modeler's Association meets in Fullerton.

 

San Diego Ship Modeler's Guild meets aboard the Berkeley on the Embarcadero.

[andreank]

Hi All! I started my log but decided to go with the Sultana. It can be found here:

 

I'm already a bit stumped 🤦‍♀️. So if anyone wants to ride along this journey with me, I would GREATLY appreciate some help. 

[Chuck Seiler]

Sorry for not responding sooner.  Chris has provided the info on the two SOCAL clubs.  The SMA would be closer to you, although some SMA members belong to both.