First Model

[JohnWW]

Hi Everyone,

I've just completed my first ever model. AL La Provencale. I didn't post a build log because I stuffed it up. The build, not the log. After reading a lot of posts from members I found that they may as well have been talking Swahili, due respect to any Swahilian members or is that Swazilanders. I hardly understood a word they said. I don't know my jibs from my jabs. I think this will take some time before I can speak the correct lingo. 

Back to the model. I made a major error right from the word go. I measured the planks incorrectly and as a consequence, I was short one end. This of course led to many future problems further on in the build. I was actually quite pleased because I had to solve these problems as I came to them. This changed a few things on the model but I finally finished it. Not quite according to Hoyle but finished nevertheless. I'm having the time of my life. After reading the suggested models for beginners I thought I might have a crack at AL Santa Maria. The reasons for this is that it looks like a number of members here have built this model, I hope they're still around, and there are videos of the build. Also a brief instruction list. It looks like being a bit of a challenge. Being an old fart, I hope I don't pop the clogs before I get it finished. I've attached a photo, to be viewed for a distance.

Looking forward to many happy hours here.

John

[Knocklouder]

Bob  M.

[ccoyle]

Welcome aboard!

 

3 hours ago, JohnWW said:

This changed a few things on the model but I finally finished it. Not quite according to Hoyle but finished nevertheless.

The importance of this cannot be overstated. Congratulations on persevering!

[druxey]

John - welcome aboard. Part of the model-making process is stuffing it up, then figuring out a solution to the problem. That is the enduring challenge and source of satisfaction!

 

As Chris C. points out, the fact that you completed the model, warts and all, is a significant achievement.

[GrandpaPhil]

Welcome!

[Snug Harbor Johnny]

2 hours ago, druxey said:

John - welcome aboard. Part of the model-making process is stuffing it up, then figuring out a solution to the problem. That is the enduring challenge and source of satisfaction!

   You are so right, mate.  For every hour actually building, I will spend at least 2 hours THINKING on it and the various ways to proceed ... more so when I'm 'busting' items to make a build better.  The process is sort of like picturing myself doing something one way, and imagining all the things that might go awry with that method.  Then I'll try and think of other ways (tools to use or improvise, possible jigs, holding methods, gluing methods, alternative design and material choices).
  The build is a path to travel (with compromises) that is savored, since its only done once (unless parts get ripped out to be redone).  I like just thinking about it, then doing it later.  There is no 'schedule' (whenever there is, it won't be met), and its not a race ... its an experience.  Each build puts more experience, tools and techniques into my 'tool box', so the next project benefits.

[Keith Black]

 John, welcome to MSW. Congratulations on completing your model, so many come excited to start and never finish which is so sad. I look at making mistakes as a learning experience. Learning what not to do next time, learning how to make it better in the future, and most importantly, learning how to have more fun. Glad to have you aboard.  

[Baker]

[robert952]

Congrats on the model and  welcome to MSW!

[JohnWW]

Thank you everyone for your replies and comments. It was a valuable learning experience for me. It all went wrong at the planking stage. From the first plank I might add. But I'll never make that same mistake again. From what I've read here, it seems everyone has their own way of doing things which I think is fantastic. I'll try and select what I think is the best option for me. One thing I have learnt, is not to rush. Don't try and complete the build tomorrow.

I'm looking forward to the next build. I hope I haven't bitten off more than I can chew. I'm sure I'll be pestering you all for advice with this one.

Thanks again. Watch this space.

[robert952]

 

37 minutes ago, JohnWW said:

 But I'll never make that same mistake again. From what I've read here, it seems everyone has their own way of doing things which I think is fantastic. I'll try and select what I think is the best option for me. One thing I have learnt, is not to rush. Don't try and complete the build tomorrow.

I'm looking forward to the next build. I hope I haven't bitten off more than I can chew. I'm sure I'll be pestering you all for advice with this one.

Thanks again. Watch this space.

A few of us have to make the same mistake a few times as we fine tune our skills.  

With the wide range of skill sets here, you will find something that works for you.  When you find something that works, go for it.

Another motto I like:  "It aint a hobby if you have to hurry." 

 

[Louie da fly]

Let me get this straight. This is your first model? Not bad for a beginner, mate.

 

For the next one, can I suggest you start a build log? Great way to get feedback and advice. The people here are very friendly and helpful, and we have some of the demi-gods of ship modelling as members. As an old fart myself, I want to be them when I grow up.

 

Instructions for starting a build log are here:

 

BTW, where in Oz are you? As you can see, I'm in sunny Ballaarat, jewel of the south.

 

Steven

Edited 6 hours ago by Louie da fly

[JohnWW]

Hi Steven,

Good afternoon from sunny Scone NSW, jewel of the north. I've been to or travelled through Ballaarat many times. Lived in North East Victoria for most of my life. Saw someone building a model ship on the internet and thought I'd have a crack at it. The photo I posted is my very first model. Bit rough, made a few very basic errors from the start. Anyway, as I said I'm going to have a go at the AL Santa Anna. I will start a build log when I get the model and start it.

John