Maris Stella

[spars]

I got some email ads for this company and their kits. Does anyone have experience with them? What is the wood quality? How are the instructions? I'm thinking of adding a kit to my collection for post Mary Rose which is my winter build. Here in Minnesota winter can be a LONG time.

[ccoyle]

If you click MarisStella's ad banner on the home page, you can visit their website. Each model description includes numerous photos of the prototype model along with images of the kit plans. I have heard some people knock MarisStella's instructions (I haven't built one, so I can't say one way or the other), but the owner himself has acknowledged that the more complex models in the kit range assume some prior experience on the part of the builder, i.e. he/she should be comfortable building from plans. Personally, I have always been impressed with their lineup, and if you search through the build logs, you'll find examples of some under construction. PS: Be wary of email ads featuring sale prices on MarisStella kits -- it is often less expensive to order directly from MarisStella, even with shipping factored in.

[spars]

I've looked at their site and data. I also looked at Model Expo because they carry the line. I'm not a novice but much can be said for second grade materials-wood and blocks and castings.

[VTHokiEE]

I have a Maris Stella kit in my stash, that I can take a peek at for you - main interest quality of wood and fittings?

Edited November 5, 2021 by VTHokiEE

[spars]

That would be generous of you. If you could identify the kit that would be helpful. Like all modelers I am aware of clumsy translation to English. One things I am aware of is the amount of flash on Britania pieces.

[mtaylor]

There are builds here at MSW.   You can go to the kit area and do a search (limit the search to titles and "MarisStella" (one word) and "Content Titles only").  You'll get the results of every build log here.   Or you can search on the model name.

[spars]

Thanx, I'll do that.

[VTHokiEE]

It’s the Liburnian Monoreme (I was supposed to be building it now, but the siren’s call is unavoidable). Unfortunately I can’t be of service for Britania pieces as this kit has none. I do suggest taking care when ordering (from wherever) as Maris Stella has upgraded many (all?) of their offerings. They were very responsive to my emails when I ordered this. The laser cut bulkheads are done in a nice plywood and the strip wood is all walnut. The walnut seems okay, but I’ve never worked with it before and have no good comparison. My kit also comes with some balsa filler blocks that may also be laser cut (or at least outlined). Here are a few pictures if they help at all.

Feel free to send me a PM is you have any real detailed questions that I might be able to help with.

[spars]

Thanx! Your pictures speak well of the kit. The blocks appear to be very well executed and the wood of good color.