Hello from Massachusetts

[LHsmith]

Hi, my name is Lyle and I found your great site while researching expanding my hobby. I'm a truck driver and a lot of my weekends are spent at truckstops. I've been thinking of ways to spend this time creating something. I have been building plastic kits for many years, but didn't want those paints or glues in the cab. I knew I wanted to work in wood, as most materials are water-based. In my mind model ships always seemed a daunting task, what with all those sails and rigging. Browsing the internet I discovered there were companies that offered beginner level kits that were much less complex than what I picture when thinking model ships. Then finding MSW I knew I could try one of these kits. I decided on the OcCre Polaris based on them having video tutorials for me to learn from. After all, a hobby is about learning new techniques and this is certainly new to me. I ordered the kit from Ages of Sail as I saw they are a sponsor of MSW. The shipped the next day, but getting the kit was a challenge as I had to time getting home on the same day the kit arrived. Got it! I can see ordering things I need will be part of the challenge of this build, as my local hobby shop is strictly trains. I will be starting a log as well, as I'm sure I will value the input.

[Baker]

[ccoyle]

Assuming that your local train shop is well-stocked, such shops are often useful sources for tools and materials that can be used in ship modeling.

[LHsmith]

Yes, I was able to stock up on blades and things there. I also found some things at the local big box crafting store.

[Charles Green]

Hello from Idaho:

 

I've never driven truck but I did spend a few years living on the road, going from project to project.  Lap-size, portable projects kept me centered and out of the bars!  I'm glad to see you are interested in keeping your mind occupied - there is no end to modeling.  Welcome to this site.  

[Edwardkenway]

Hello 

[Jim Lad]

Hello Lyle, and a warm welcome to MSW from 'Down Under'.

 

John

[JeffT]

Welcome to MSW 

[Louie da fly]

Welcome Lyle!

 

Make sure you start a  build log so we on MSW get the benefit of your build. It's also a very good way to get help, enouragement and advice.There are very many new people on MSW making a ship model for the first time.

 

Don't be afraid of making mistakes - even the best modellers make them, (though their mistakes are much more interesting than those of us mere mortals). And one of the good things about wooden models is that wood is very forgiving - there is almost no mistake that can't be remedied.

 

Looking forward to seeing you journey into ship modelling. But a warning -  don't be surprised if you get addicted 

[mtaylor]

Welcome to MSW, Lyle.  

[Articcie]

Welcome here😀 you must have a big truck then when it has enough space for a hobby room😉

[glbarlow]

Hi, welcome to the group. Glad you found us.  
 

Check out Lauck Street Shipyards Here for practicums on ship building and Vanguard Models Here for well designed kits with high quality and detailed instructions and plans.  

 

As others mentioned, consider starting a build log. That way you’re connect to a worldwide source of friendly people willing to support and help you along the way.  
 

Have fun, it won’t all go perfect, but adapt, improvise, and overcoming obstacles is half the fun.