First scratch build - what wood to use?

[Javelin]

As the title says, I'm preparing for a first wooden ship and decided to go for a scratch build. The odd reason perhaps, is that I'm used to build from scratch and want to see where it goes. I find it easier to toss one of my builds in the bin rather than a 30% finished (expensive) kit. 

Now while preparing I've been gathering a lot of info here on thicknesses and types of wood, but I do have to take in account what I have available to me. 

 

The basic question is: 

Do I use ply or MDF for the frames and keel? I've seen some opting for MDF because it holds pushpins better, but that's just one argument. 

 

And second question, my main store has poplar and birch ply, so if I'm to use ply, which one would be better suitable?

 

I'm preparing a document with sequence of construction and needed materials, so I can make an order list for the first phase.

As mentioned before, if the hull fails, there's no need to purchase equipment for masts, fittings and rigging, which is not an option if you bought a kit... 

 

(considering my past experience and wealth of information here, I'm rather confident I can make it work, or I wouldn't start it in the first place 😄)

[Fritzlindsay]

Is your build going to be plank on bulkhead or plank on frame?   

Fritz

Edited February 2 by Fritzlindsay

[Javelin]

Forgot to mention, thanks for asking. 

 

Plank on Bulkhead, I won't be trying my luck too much.

[No Idea]

Are you going to paint the hull or leave it as wood?

[Javelin]

Paint for the upper hull and coppering for the bottom. 

[No Idea]

I that case you could use either - as for the choice of ply you need a well made and bonded ply. Just have a look at the edge of the ply you may buy;  it should be solid without voids or crumbly layers 

[GrandpaPhil]

I would go with plywood bulkheads and use basswood for the rest.

 

I go through a lot of basswood.

 

If you’re painting anyways, the type of wood used is less critical from a visual standpoint.

 

Bass is relatively easy to work, cheap, and holds a fair amount of detail.

 

For carvings I have been using cedar grilling planks and old Jenga blocks due to their ability to hold details.

 

I used them both on my model of the Revenge.

[Fritzlindsay]

No Ideas has a great point about voids and pockets in plywood.  Aircraft plywood or high quality birch plywood would be good choices for the bulkheads.  For planking, softer wood like basswood is prone to dents but coppering will cover these.  Paint will not hide any dents so maybe consider a harder wood above the water line for the hull planking.   

Fritz