Fillers for bulkheads

[legend]

Hello All ,

Looking at starting my second boat build in the not too distant future . I think I have come to the conclusion of trying to build the 19th century racing yacht "America" . There are a number of companies make this model , so Im trying to choose the one with the most detailed pieces which will look authentic once finished (any ideas) ?

one thing I have picked up for plank on bulkhead models is that the fore and aft bulkheads are better for planking if you use some sort of filler to help support the planking as it bends round . Has anyone any simple / cheap ideas as to what can be used for this purpose ?

Just out of interest I have been looking at Mamolis version ???

Thanks

Mike

[Jaager]

It depends on the tools available to you.  If you can mill,  a visit to your local HomeDepot or hardware store can

supply you with a best quality framing 2 x 4.  They will crosscut - 2 ft for me.  One should cover more than one POB.

Some times Fir or Pine - just choose clear, and low sap.  Easy on a saw blade or cutting edges but holds an edge.

[legend]

Thanks for the idea Jaager

[Bob Cleek]

Bluejacket Shipcrafters has two very nice, highly detailed, America kits, one in 1/8" scale and the other in 1/4" scale. These are plank on frame kits with all the interior framing and may be built "Admiralty Board style" with exposed frames, or not, as the builder wishes.  http://www.bluejacketinc.com/kits/america.htm 

 

If memory serves, one or both of these models was designed by the late Portia Takakjian from whom one can expect a very high degree of accuracy and detail. 

Edited August 16, 2019 by Bob Cleek

[ASAT]

I’ve always used balsa wood to fill between bulkheads - carves and sands easy and softer than the bulkheads so you don’t over fair.....

[legend]

Thanks ASAT

[wefalck]

The fillers should be somewhat softer than the bulkheads, but not too soft, so that one doesn’t sand hollows into it.

 

l found MDF board a useful and cheap choice with the added advantage that it is not directional.

[mtaylor]

Basswood works well also.  Many hobby shops have the stuff in bags of assorted sizes as well as planks of various sizes.