hi, I was wondering what the cheapest model kit for practice would be.

[LegoKing5522]

hi, I am new to building model ships, and I was wondering if you guys could suggest some cheaper kits that I could use for practice. i would like to avoid spending a bunch of money on something nice, because I don't have any practice at all with planking and building the hull etc...

thanks in advance for any suggestions.

[DonBMichigan]

Many new builders here have started with the three-model Model Shipways series. There are many build logs for these models as well on this site. 

 

Each model is also available for sale separately, as are the paints, etc.

[OllieS]

Possibly the Occre Polaris. There is a series of 'how to' on their youtube channel which is really helpful.

[SkiBee]

I did the 3 Model Shipways kits since I had no experience with wooden models, built many plastic models but no wood.  With each one I learned a lot and gained basic and mid modeling skills.  I found the price very manageable.  Recommend you look at a few build logs on this site for any model you might be interested in building before buying. Also, start a build log for anything you do, since you can ask others for help.

The key is take your time, enjoy and realize that no one will notice any flaw but you, good modeling.

[Snug Harbor Johnny]

  I saw Artesania Latina's 1805 Swift with a 'buy it now' price of $49.99.  The AL Bounty Jolly Boat was for $42 and change.  These look like great beginner kits that don't cost much ... and I know there is at least one build log for the Jolly Boat.  Check it out.

[Stevinne]

Sign up for the Model Expo email alerts. They have sales just about every week and you can usually find good deals on simple, inexpensive kits among the deals. I'd second the Swift, which sounds like a good deal. Their Virginia 1819 also looks like a good starter kit. It looks like you can get it on their site for about $95 if you use their coupon. https://artesanialatina.net/en/ships-initiation/62413-virginia-american-schooner-wooden-model-ship-kit-8421426221350.html

 

Edited March 16, 2023 by Stevinne

[GrandpaPhil]

https://vanguardmodels.co.uk/product/saucy-jack-barking-well-smack/
 

Chris Watton’s Vanguard Models have excellent instruction manuals and the owner of the company is on this forum.

 

He made a bunch of fishing boat kits, like the link I started with, that would make a great beginners kit.

 

Also, there are excellent planking tutorials on this forum too.

[DennisL]

Hi

I would recommend the New Bedford Whale boat from Model Shipways.  You can usually buy it on sale at Model Expo.  The scale  is fairly large, the instructions booklet and plans by Erik Ronnberg are excellent and the planks are pre cut and spiled. The model builds over a hardback framework just like you would build a real boat. 

 

The actual boat is on display at the New Bedford Whaling museum here in Massachusetts .  In would highly recommend a trip if you are ever in the area. 

 

The three boats mentioned earlier seem like a good start although I have never tried them.

 

Dennis

[mtaylor]

One thing not mentioned is "what's your budget?".   We all have ideas on good beginner kits but knowing what you're willing or able to spend will help get the choices down.

[LegoKing5522]

thanks, I will take into consideration all that you guys suggested. um my budget currently, I would prefer not to spend over $80. 

[Azzoun]

Hey there,

Or you can buy them second hand.  I actually have two kits for sale, 

 

1:100 Model Shipways Bluenose  $80 shipping included

Model Shipways BENJAMIN LATHAM 1:48  $150 shipping included 

 

PM if you're interested,

Joshua  

 

[LegoKing5522]

i will consider that offer. I will ask my parents about it. can u send pics of the bluenose kit like you did for the other one pls.

[Azzoun]

Mind if I ask your age?

[LegoKing5522]

15

 

[Azzoun]

Private message me your address - I'm happy to just send it to ya - if your parents want to make a donation, they can to the Philadelphia Ship Model Society but there's no obligation.    

 

Joshua Fichmann

President PSMS

[LegoKing5522]

wait for free? I am confused.

 

[Azzoun]

For free...   you're a young person wanting to build a model, happy to support that.   If you were an adult with a job, I'd charge. 

 

Joshua   

[LegoKing5522]

oh okay.

 

[Azzoun]

Now you don't have to worry about screwing it up, by the way, every model is screwed up in some way to the builder - screw up as many kits as you can!

 

Joshua 

[LegoKing5522]

k

but i still have to ask before giving address.

Edited March 17, 2023 by LegoKing5522

[Azzoun]

Completely understand - I'm happy to chat with your parents on the phone or over zoom. 

 

Joshua 

[LegoKing5522]

okay