New Modeler, eager for advice!

[Joseph F.]

I'm from East Virginia, a lover of the water and a long-time reader of nautical fiction. I'm primarily an armor modeler, but I am going into wooden ships. I have ordered several kits which I plan to finish in this order to familiarize myself with the craft:

1. Model Shipways 1/24 Grand Banks Dory
2. Artesania Latina 1/24 Providence Whaleboat
3. Artesania Latina 1/24 Jolly Boat from HMS Bounty
4. Artesania Latina 1/85 Sultan Arab Dhow
5. Artesania Latina 1/41 1819 Virginia Schooner
6. Model Shipways 1/64 1803 Brig Syren

I am also getting the following tools:

1. Razor Saw
2. Keel Vise
3. Microshapers A and B from Artesania Latina
4. Marking and Measuring Set (rulers, compass, squares)
5. 3" Squares x2
6. 5oz Upholsterer's Hammer
7. Rigging tools and long-neck scissors

I already have hobby knives, files, sandpaper, various wood and CA glues, various paints, etc, all the basic modeling tools and supplies. 

I'm really looking forward to getting started, everyone here seems very knowledgeable and supportive.

My questions for more experienced modelers would be:

1. Is this a good plan to start the hobby?
2. Am I missing any necessary/helpful tools?
3. What is some basic advice you can give me?

Edited March 22, 2021 by Joseph F.

[mtaylor]

Welcome to MSW, Joseph.   

 

It would appear you have a good plan laid out for starting and progressing in the hobby.  

 

As for tools... go to the top of the page (the More button) and click on the database.  There's articles on getting started, tools, etc.   As for tools.  I think you're off to a good start.  Rule of thumb.... only buy tools when you need them.  If you're not sure.. ask.  Tools can be a hobby unto themselves... yes, I'm a toolholic and trying to stop.   I do note that you don't have tweezers listed.... a good set is very worthwhile.  Same for a hobby knife like an Xacto.  

 

As for advice... open a build log on each project as it's a great way to get help and advice.  Use MSW to search for other logs of the same model and manufacturer as you'll get ideas and insight in to methods, pitfalls, etc.  

 

The most important bit of advice perhaps... have fun and enjoy the process.   You may have issues and be pulling your hair out but we're here and can help, thus the build log and seeing what others have done.  It can be a very relaxing and enjoyable journey.

[druxey]

Like Mark said, Joseph. Welcome!

[Kevin]

welcome

 

your hardest part is not starting each kit without completing the previous one lol

[Ryland Craze]

Hi Joseph and welcome to Model Ship World.  It is nice to see another Virginian on this site.  The Hampton Roads Ship Model Society is close to you.  Check out their website by clicking on this link: HRSMS Website

[Jim Lad]

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

 

Mark has given you some good advice there.  

[JeffT]

Welcome to MSW. It looks like you have a well laid out plan.

[Azzoun]

Yeah, i have some advice.  Don't forget to have fun and don't be afraid to screw it up - all models get screwed up in one way or the other.  Just accept and enjoy!   

[nehemiah]

I am newbie at this but I have found that I can never have enough clamps. I find clothespins and rubber bands to be especially useful.

[Chuck Seiler]

EAST Virginia?  Did we get a new state when I wasn't looking?

 

-Does "Hobby knives" include an Exacto?  My #1 tool.  (I have graduated to scalpel, but you get the point).

-Dremel, my #2 tool

-Clamps...you can never have too many.  Check out the various build logs and buy the clamps as you need them.

-Patience.

-Alcohol-Isopropyl.  As Azzoun said, all models get screwed up.  Using alcohol to unglue the defective parts is invaluable.  ...and DO unglue the defective parts.  Trying to compensate for errors only make the errors worse.  Don't ask me how I know this.

-Dictionary of nautical swear words...for when you just spend 4 hours on a part only to drop it and not be able to find it.

-Have fun.  Ask question and don't be afraid to share your work.

[Joseph F.]

Thanks to all repliers, Mark especially. To answer questions about other tools I have, I have several hobby knives, several pliers and tweezers, lots of clamps, and a rotary tool. I hope to have something to show in a couple weeks!

 

@Chuck Seiler We've been here since 1607

[Keith Black]

Joseph, welcome to MSW. Enjoy this new phase of modeling and please take advantage of looking through the build logs of others. You'll not only find inspiration but also answers to questions you have during your builds. 

[Mike from Aus]

Welcome to this forum, it is certainly the place for great advice and meeting a great group of friends. Clamps, clamps of all kinds. Look forward to seeing your builds.  Mike

[Chuck Seiler]

21 hours ago, Joseph F. said:

@Chuck Seiler We've been here since 1607

I thought that was just plain old Virginia.  I knew there was a WEST Virginia, but... 😁

[GrandpaPhil]

Welcome!

[Peanut6]

Joseph, a welcome from the Midwest.  You've received good advice from some very skilled modelers.  In addition to all the various clamps available I've found that in planking my Jolly Boat, push pins are a must.  There are a few spots that I just can't get a clamp, of any kind, on nor can I find a way to get a rubber band to get the job done.  I used a grinding disc on my Dremel to shorten the pins and reduce the diameter to my liking.  I had to be very careful not to over heat the pin as it would melt the plastic.  I did this because when using unmodified pins I split my transom     The pins were just too big, this of course was just my case on my Jolly Boat.