Most of the ship models we repair are models that represent a particular ship.
Of the thousand of wooden sailing vessels built around the world most passed into oblivion with an un-adventurous life.
A scant few such as FLYING CLOUD, AMERICA, ARIZONA, EAGLE and CONSTITUTION will live on forever while the rest may never be remembered.
The basis of ship model repair, restoration and construction is to try to uphold the original designers and builders intent.
Every model has subtle clues as to what parts are missing, where lines were tied off etc. Ship model restoration take patience, a good eye, a vast knowledge of ships and how they work, a good understanding of boat building, the ability to do deep research on the internet and accass to a very good nautical library.
As with all visual arts the most critical thing is to fool the eye. Never bring attention to the major repair unless you really can't see it! Always point out the models high points to instill pride in the model.
Examples of the research done for several recently completed restorations:
"DANMARK"-the model
Extensive internet study
E-mail with ships captain aboard the ship who supplied detailed photos and gave valuable specific rigging detail
Extensive library study
Harold Underhill's volume on large sailing ships
"DANMARK" model detail
"USS ESTOCIN"-the ship
Internet study
Purchase of a CD of the vessel found on the internet
Conversations of one of the ships past captains
Sup Ships division of ships at Bath Iron Works.
"USS ESTOCIN" - the model
New Ship models ♦ Restorations ♦ Research ♦ Cases♦ Nautical Art