Virginia 1819 by PohjolanMatti - Artesania Latina - Scale 1:41 - first build

[PohjolanMatti]

This is my first wooden model, so bear with me 🙂

 

A while back I started to look for a suitable beginner model. I chose a fore-and-aft rigged schooner — simply because I like them — and it is easier than full-rigged ships to start with (or so I heard).

 

I read through many nice MSW build logs here and decided to go with the Artesania Latina’s schooner Virginia 1819. 

 

The model instructions were not very thorough or detailed for a beginner and some illustrations were unreadable. No worries, MSW builders had it figured out: e.g. Trufo had posted nice drawings for the rigging: 

 

The corrected AL instructions are also available thanks to Ramzister:

 

To fill in the gaps in the instructions, I’ve found invaluable guidance at MSW and Mastini’s book ”Ship Modelling Simplified”. 

 

Another drawback: there is a known issue with the rudder. It does not fit as per the instructions. Some builders fixed the rudder, some fixed the stern post, or even the transom. I was thinking to make at least a new sternpost. Another alternative might be to drill the rudder post directly through the deck counter instead of passing the tiller through the transom. This idea I got when reading Chapelle’s Fishing Schooners book. I don’t know if I’m able do it, we will see.

 

I may also try out some modifications where needed. As this is my first wooden build, I try to keep it simple and learn the basics first before getting into the deep water.

 

After reading MSW build logs, guides and videos I felt ready to start building my boat. Here goes.

[PohjolanMatti]

I started by going through the kit inventory and getting familiar with the instructions and the pieces.
 

All good so I started cutting out the keel and bulkheads. Bulkheads fitted just a bit loose and only small deviations here and there, easily fixed with sandpaper.

 

I glued the bulkheads in straight angle with the keel and false deck and faired the bulkheads in shape for the planking.

 

This all went smoothly, until I had to figure out how to do planking. I checked again build logs, guides, books, videos. 
 

After lots of measuring with digital caliper, I figured out that 13 planks per side are needed. I also need at least one stealer wedge aft, and may survive without drop planks at the bow. Then I simply divided each bulkead width evenly for the 13 planks.

 

I tried first planking from top to bottom as per the instructions. I bent the plank and learned that I maybe should have cut to right size first 🙂. With the first plank dry-fitted, I decided to go from bottom to top after all as it seemed easier somehow.

When I managed to glue in the garboard, I finally got into practice and routine of measure-cut-bend-glue. 
 

It’s nowhere near perfect but I am satisfied taking the time going slowly. Now I know what I should or should not be doing next time.
 

 

 

[NateB]

Good start! Nikbud on this forum also has a very good Virigina 1819 build, you should check his out as his veneer job was superb! Was tossing between buying this one and the Santa Maria. Good luck

[PohjolanMatti]

Thanks NateB. Yes, I have read diligently the build logs, also Nikbud’s which is very nice indeed! 
 

I also read your Santa Maria log. You are really quick in building that! I might try that model next.. 

[PohjolanMatti]

Some progress for a while; I started sanding the first planking

 

Now getting ready for some wood filler touch-up (planking near the deadwood got a bump with a too strong clamp..)