Hello from Montreal

[Arthur Fernandez]

I'm pleased that I joined this site, and I hope to learn tons as I embark on a return to building!

 

About 30 years ago I built my first, and only, RC meter-long sloop from scratch (pics included). This involved shaping the lead keel in a teardrop shape using the lost-wax method (I found the lead by scraping around garages for lead tire weights hanging around their floors). I made the sails from some scrap Dacron sails from a real sailboat, and the mast was made from a curtain rod. I planked the frame with cheap veneered wood wall panels cut into strips on a band saw. Up close, it ain't pretty, but it did the job! Having only two servos, and not very strong ones, I hand built a ratchet system that would turn and catch the sails at any angle I wanted, but I had to coordinate the rudder and "winch" so that the wind did the job of moving the sail. I finished it with 7 coats of varathane to ensure that it wouldn't leak.

 

It still graces the top of my bookshelf (I actually called it "Grace") and, although it is replete with embarrassing flaws, I am still proud of the instincts I had at the time, which paid off by creating a boat that sails relatively well in moderate winds and creating that beautiful wave pattern behind a slick boat. I recently sailed it on a lake, and it cruised as beautifully as ever. So, also this past summer, I have decided to get back into the hobby and build me a beautiful boat for next summer. I suspect I will likely choose to build something from a Herreshoff design, something like the Buzzard's Bay; what amazing boats he built!

[mtaylor]

Welcome to MSW, Arthur.  Lovely boat sitting there, and certainly something to be proud of.  When you're ready to start your new ship, do start a build log in the kit as it's a great way to get help and meet people.

[JeffT]

Welcome to MSW Arthur.

[druxey]

Welcome and bienvenue! Yes, Herreshoff did some amazing designs. If you ever get the chance, you should try to visit the museum where there are many of his boats, either restored or in process.

[Jim Lad]

Hello Arthur, and a warm welcome to the forum from 'Down Under'.

 

John

[Mike from Aus]

Welcome Arthur, you will find lots of assistance here. Enjoy the craft and the learning experience.   Mike

[Baker]

[Arthur Fernandez]

Thank you for the warm welcome, yes, I will definitely start a build log!

[bruce d]

Welcome to MSW

[Nirvana]

 

Hello Arthur

From PNW a warm to 

RC sailing is so relaxing , great to another "sailor" with us.

As you see I am also a RC sailor but in another class....